Can You Buy Citizenship in Malta by Investment in 2026?

Last updated: March 2026

Why trust Mirabello Consultancy with your Malta application? As an IMC-accredited, ACAMS-certified investment migration firm headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, we have guided over 250 families to successful citizenship with a 99% approval rate. Our Swiss precision and personalised approach ensure your application receives expert attention from start to finish. Meet our team.

Considering Malta citizenship? Book a free consultation with Mirabello Consultancy to discuss the best investment route for you and your family.

What Is the Malta Citizenship by Investment Programme?

The short answer to "can you buy citizenship in Malta by investment" is: yes — but through a carefully regulated, merit-based naturalisation process, not a simple transaction. Malta operates the Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) programme, formally known as the Maltese Citizenship Act (Chapter 188 of the Laws of Malta) and administered by Residency Malta Agency (ResMA) and Community Malta Agency (CMA).

Launched in its current form in November 2020, MEIN is the only active EU citizenship by direct investment pathway in the European Union. Unlike golden visa programmes that grant residency, a successful Malta application culminates in full naturalisation — meaning you receive a Maltese passport carrying the same rights as any Maltese-born citizen, including the unrestricted right to live and work anywhere across all 27 EU member states.

The programme is specifically designed for high-net-worth individuals and families who can make a meaningful, multi-component contribution to Malta's national development fund, property sector, and charitable or philanthropic organisations. The Maltese government enforces a strict annual cap of 400 certificates of naturalisation per year, with a lifetime programme cap of 1,500 certificates, ensuring exclusivity and programme integrity.

For a broader comparison of the world's leading citizenship and residency programmes, visit our guide to the best citizenship by investment programmes.

Can You Buy Citizenship in Malta by Investment? The Investment Requirements Explained

Malta's investment requirements are structured across three mandatory components. Every applicant must fulfil all three to qualify — there is no single "purchase price" for Maltese citizenship. Think of it instead as a comprehensive investment portfolio in Malta's future.

Component 1: Contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF)

This is a non-refundable government contribution paid directly into Malta's National Development and Social Fund, which supports education, healthcare, and innovation initiatives.

• One-year residency route: €600,000
• Three-year residency route: €750,000
• An additional €50,000 per dependent (spouse and children under 29) must be paid on top of the main applicant's contribution.

Component 2: Property Investment

Applicants must either purchase or lease qualifying residential property in Malta. This requirement must be maintained for a minimum of five years from the date of naturalisation.

• Purchase: Minimum property value of €700,000
• Lease/Rental: Minimum annual rent of €16,000

The property must remain the applicant's primary Maltese residence for the required duration. If renting, the lease must be maintained continuously for the five-year period post-naturalisation.

Component 3: Philanthropic Donation

Every applicant must make a minimum donation of €10,000 to a registered Maltese non-governmental organisation (NGO), philanthropic institution, or cultural, scientific, or sporting body. This reflects Malta's commitment to ensuring investors contribute meaningfully to civil society.

Total Minimum Investment Summary

• One-year route (single applicant, renting): approximately €626,000 + fees
• Three-year route (single applicant, renting): approximately €776,000 + fees
• One-year route (single applicant, purchasing): approximately €1,310,000 + fees
• Three-year route (single applicant, purchasing): approximately €1,460,000 + fees

Professional fees, due diligence charges (€15,000 for the main applicant, €10,000 per adult dependent, €3,000 per minor dependent), passport fees, and residency card fees are additional costs that Mirabello Consultancy will outline in full during your personalised consultation.

Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies for Malta Citizenship?

Meeting the financial thresholds is only the starting point. Malta enforces rigorous eligibility criteria to maintain the integrity of its programme and protect the value of its passport.

Core Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Clean criminal record: No criminal convictions anywhere in the world. This is verified through multi-jurisdictional background checks.
• Clean health record: Applicants must not pose a public health risk. A comprehensive medical examination is required.
• Residency requirement: The applicant must hold valid Maltese residency for a minimum of 12 months (one-year route) or 36 months (three-year route) before a naturalisation certificate can be issued.
• No prior rejection: Applicants who have previously been refused a visa or rejected by another EU member state's residency or citizenship programme may face heightened scrutiny.
• Source of funds: All investment funds must be demonstrably legitimate. Malta's due diligence standards are among the most thorough of any CBI programme globally, reflecting Malta's FATF and EU compliance obligations.

Genuine Connections Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate a genuine connection to Malta. This does not require extensive physical presence, but the government expects applicants to show awareness of, and engagement with, Maltese culture, society, and civic life. Mirabello Consultancy advises all clients on how to document and evidence this connection authentically throughout the process.

The Application Process: Step by Step

Malta's citizenship by investment process is methodical and multi-stage. Understanding each phase helps set realistic expectations and ensures nothing is overlooked.

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment & Engagement of Agent

Every applicant must engage a licensed Malta Registered Mandatory (a government-authorised agent). Mirabello Consultancy works exclusively with licensed mandatory partners to submit applications on your behalf. We conduct a thorough pre-screening assessment to confirm your eligibility before any fees are incurred.

Step 2: Residency Application (ResMA)

The first formal step is applying for Maltese residency through Residency Malta Agency. This triggers the start of your 12-month or 36-month residency period. Processing of the residency stage takes approximately 3–4 months.

Step 3: Due Diligence (Four-Tier Process)

Malta operates a famously rigorous four-tier due diligence review: an internal government review, two independent specialist due diligence agencies, and a final government assessment. This is the most thorough vetting process in the investment migration industry and typically runs concurrently with the residency period.

Step 4: Investment Fulfilment

Once residency is granted, applicants finalise their property commitment (purchase or lease) and make their philanthropic donation. The NDSF contribution is paid in stages as directed by Community Malta Agency.

Step 5: Naturalisation Application (CMA)

After satisfying the residency period, the applicant applies to Community Malta Agency for naturalisation. CMA conducts a final review, including a personal interview in some cases, before recommending the President of Malta to issue the Certificate of Naturalisation.

Step 6: Oath of Allegiance & Passport Issuance

Upon approval, the applicant takes an Oath of Allegiance and receives their Certificate of Naturalisation. The Maltese passport is then applied for and typically issued within 4–6 weeks.

Timeline: How Long Does Malta Citizenship by Investment Take?

Realistic timeline expectations are essential for proper life and business planning. Here is what clients can expect:

• Pre-application preparation: 4–8 weeks (document collection, eligibility assessment)
• Residency approval: 3–4 months from submission
• Residency period (one-year route): 12 months minimum
• Residency period (three-year route): 36 months minimum
• Naturalisation processing after residency completion: 4–6 months
• Total: one-year route: approximately 18–20 months from initial engagement to passport in hand
• Total: three-year route: approximately 42–48 months from initial engagement to passport in hand

Malta does not offer expedited processing. However, Mirabello Consultancy's structured approach and proactive document management help ensure your application progresses without unnecessary delays.

The Benefits of Malta Citizenship: Why It Remains One of Europe's Most Sought-After Passports

For UHNW and HNW families, a Maltese passport is far more than a travel document. It represents a generational asset with significant lifestyle, business, and legacy advantages.

Visa-Free Travel

The Maltese passport currently grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188+ countries and territories, including the United States (ESTA), Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and all 27 EU Schengen member states. For business owners and internationally mobile families, this dramatically simplifies global travel.

Full EU Rights

Malta is a full EU member state. Maltese citizens enjoy the right to live, work, study, and retire in any of the 27 EU member states without restriction. This is an increasingly valuable right in an era of tightening immigration controls across Europe.

Dual Citizenship

Malta fully recognises dual (and multiple) citizenship. You are not required to renounce your existing nationality. This is a critical consideration for many applicants whose home countries impose restrictions on foreign naturalisation.

Tax Advantages

Malta operates a favourable non-domicile tax regime for qualifying residents. Individuals who take up Maltese residence are generally taxed only on income remitted to Malta, not on worldwide income. Malta also has an extensive double taxation treaty network covering more than 70 countries. Tax advice should always be sought from a specialist; Mirabello Consultancy can refer you to trusted Maltese tax advisers.

Education & Healthcare

Maltese citizens — and by extension their children — gain access to Malta's public education system, including higher education, and public healthcare. Malta's European-standard medical infrastructure is a meaningful benefit for families.

Generational Transfer

Maltese citizenship acquired by naturalisation can be passed to children born after naturalisation, creating a permanent legacy for your family.

Family Inclusion: Who Can Be Added to Your Application?

One of the programme's most attractive features is its generous definition of eligible dependants. The following family members may be included in a single application:

• Spouse or registered partner (legally recognised partnerships)
• Children under 18 (including adopted children)
• Children aged 18–29 who are unmarried and financially dependent on the main applicant
• Children of any age who have a certified disability and are financially dependent
• Parents and grandparents over 55 who are financially dependent on the main applicant

Each adult dependant is subject to the same due diligence process and applicable additional contribution fees. Children under 18 have reduced due diligence fees. Including multiple generations in one application is not only permitted but encouraged — it is often one of the most cost-effective ways to secure EU citizenship for an entire family unit.

To explore how family inclusion works across different European programmes, see our comparison of the best golden visa investment programmes.

You may also wish to compare Malta's offering with other European options, including our detailed guides on Malta citizenship by investment and Portugal's Golden Visa programme.

Frequently Asked Questions: Malta Citizenship by Investment

Is buying citizenship in Malta legal?

Yes. The Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalisation programme is a fully legal, government-administered programme established under Maltese law (Citizenship Act, Chapter 188). It has operated since 2020 and is administered by official Maltese government agencies. The programme was reviewed by the European Commission, and Malta continues to operate it as a sovereign right under EU law. Working with a licensed registered mandatory and a reputable consultancy like Mirabello Consultancy ensures full compliance throughout.

How much does Malta citizenship by investment cost in total?

For a single main applicant using the one-year residency route and choosing to rent rather than purchase property, the minimum total outlay is approximately €626,000 (government contribution €600,000 + €16,000 rent year one + €10,000 donation). For applicants purchasing property, total costs start at approximately €1,310,000. For a family of four, costs rise significantly due to per-dependant contributions and enhanced due diligence fees. Mirabello Consultancy provides a fully itemised cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Can I hold dual citizenship with Malta?

Yes. Malta unequivocally permits dual and multiple citizenship. You will not be required to renounce your existing nationality as part of the Maltese naturalisation process. However, you should always verify whether your home country permits its citizens to hold a second nationality, as restrictions vary by jurisdiction.

How many countries can I visit visa-free with a Maltese passport?

A Maltese passport currently grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188+ countries and territories, including the United States (via ESTA), Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and all Schengen Area countries. Malta's passport consistently ranks among the top ten globally in passport power indices.

Do I need to live in Malta after receiving citizenship?

No permanent residence requirement exists after naturalisation. Once you have obtained your Maltese passport, there is no minimum time you must physically spend in Malta each year to retain your citizenship. You will, however, need to maintain your qualifying property for five years post-naturalisation. After that period, you are free to sell the property if you purchased it, or terminate your lease if renting.

What is the difference between the one-year and three-year residency routes?

The primary difference is the government contribution amount and the overall timeline. The one-year route requires a €600,000 NDSF contribution and allows you to apply for naturalisation after 12 months of residency — making it significantly faster. The three-year route requires a €750,000 NDSF contribution and a 36-month residency period before naturalisation can be applied for. Financially, the one-year route costs €150,000 more in government contribution, but for most applicants the faster timeline justifies the premium.

Can my parents qualify as dependants in my Malta citizenship application?

Yes. Parents and grandparents who are over 55 years of age and financially dependent on the main applicant may be included as dependants in a single application. Each additional adult dependant requires the applicable supplementary government contribution (€50,000 per spouse or child; parental dependants are assessed on a case-by-case basis) and is subject to full due diligence. This makes Malta one of the most family-inclusive programmes available globally.