Malta Citizenship by Merit

Malta has entered a new chapter in its citizenship offering—one that reflects the nation’s values of integrity, excellence, and global leadership. The Malta Citizenship by Merit programme replaces the former Citizenship by Investment route with a more refined, selective approach, focused not on financial transactions, but on personal distinction.

Stay informed about the latest legal developments

Malta’s Citizenship by Merit recognizes exceptional individuals for their achievement, integrity, and global impact

Unlike traditional investment routes, the Malta Citizenship by Merit programme recognizes distinction over transaction, offering citizenship as a mark of contribution, leadership, and excellence. Set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most stable and strategically located nations, Malta offers successful applicants full rights as EU citizens—granting freedom of movement, business access across the EU, and a secure legacy for future generations. With a carefully structured and highly selective process, Malta's Citizenship by Merit is not open to everyone. It is a recognition, not a commodity—reserved for those who have earned it.

Visa Free Travel

Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 180 countries

Tax Advantages

Tax advantages within Malta’s favorable framework

Family Inclusion

Secure citizenship for you and your family members

Healthcare & Education

Top-tier healthcare and education systems

Direct Flight Connections

Double Taxation Treates

English Speakers

Days of Sunshine

Who Is Eligible for Malta Citizenship by Merit?

Malta’s Citizenship by Merit program is designed exclusively for exceptional individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement, integrity, and global influence. Eligibility is selective and based on merit, recognizing those who contribute meaningfully to society, the economy, or culture.

Distinguished Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders
Outstanding Professionals and Innovators
Philanthropists and Social Contributors
Global Influencers and Thought Leaders
Highly Skilled Individuals with Proven Merit

A transition from investment-based to merit-based citizenship

The legal basis for Malta’s shift from investment-based to merit-based citizenship stems primarily from the 2024 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union, which found the previous programme incompatible with EU law due to inadequate due diligence and the absence of a genuine link between applicants and Malta. This decision compelled Malta to revise its citizenship framework to align with EU standards, emphasizing genuine contributions and integration rather than purely financial investment.

EU Court rules against Malta’s Citizenship by Investment programme

In 2024, the EU Court ruled against Malta’s Citizenship by Investment programme, finding it violated EU law due to insufficient due diligence and transparency safeguards. The Court emphasized that citizenship confers the rights of EU citizenship, including freedom of movement and residence across member states, and thus requires adherence to strict safeguards.

Malta transitions to the Malta Citizenship by Merit scheme

In response, the Maltese government introduced Bill No. 140 of 2025, proposing significant amendments to the Maltese Citizenship Act. The bill aims to replace the investor-based naturalisation route with a merit-based system, granting citizenship to individuals who have provided exceptional services in areas such as health, security, science, culture, and innovation. In July 2025, Malta officially phased out the old Citizenship by Investment programme following the 2024 EU Court ruling and fully transitioned to the Malta Citizenship by Merit scheme.