Malta relaunched its citizenship for investment program at the end of 2020. The new CES scheme now replaces the previous one for individual investors. It results from a change in Malta’s citizenship by investment program. Obtaining a Maltese passport is possible if the applicant meets the requirements provided under the program. 

Naturalization program and its benefits

This new citizenship allows high-income applicants to receive from the state all the benefits available with a Maltese passport.

• Moving without obstacles in the EU countries. Since Malta is a member of the EU, investors who have received a Maltese passport have the right to work and live in any European country. Furthermore, Malta is in the Schengen area, so it is not necessary to pass passport control and receive a visa to cross the borders of the Schengen zone. 
• Visa-free regime. A passport in Malta is one of the most important documents. With it, you can move freely in Europe and have access to 183 countries of the world. 
• Getting dual citizenship. Malta’s immigration program provides the opportunity to obtain citizenship for up to 36 months. At the same time, the second citizenship is retained if foreigners have the status of residence in Malta.
• Obtaining passports for all family members. The application for Maltese citizenship allows the whole family to receive it. 
• An efficient tax system. If you have obtained Maltese citizenship, it does not mean that you have to pay taxes. There are special programs for other tax efficiency and favorable risks for new citizens.
• Security and stability. The country with the highest GDP in Europe and low unemployment. It has a stable political climate and is considered one of the safest countries in Europe.
• High quality of life. Excellent Mediterranean climate, comfortable conditions, many tourist spots, and modern infrastructure – an ideal place to live. 
• Affordable healthcare system. Comfortable conditions in which each family member’s medical expenses are covered by health insurance.  

Who can get Maltese citizenship by naturalization?

To receive Malta residency under the CES program, you must be at least 18 years old and not have a criminal record, and you will also have to undergo a due diligence procedure. 

A person from a sanctioned country will not be able to get Malta citizenship. In addition, you will need to meet all investment requirements and the minimum investment thresholds for the Malta PR program at https://immigrantinvest.com/blog/malta-citizenship-benefits-en/.

A minimum investment of 600,000 euros and three years of residence entitles you to citizenship. With an investment of 750,000 euros or more, you can become a citizen after living in the country for one year. In addition, you should buy a residential property, invest a minimum of 750,000 euros, or rent a house with a minimum annual fee of 16,000 euros. You also have to donate 10,000 euros to an organization in Malta, which the Community approves. 

Procedure for obtaining citizenship

The process consists of four steps that must be completed by a person who acquires Maltese citizenship through naturalization.

1. Residence Permit. The principal applicant and his dependents first apply for a Maltese residence card, enabling him to obtain a residence permit in Malta. The residence permit is issued only after a thorough verification by the CMA. Once the residence permit is confirmed, a card is issued, which gives a permanent residence permit valid for three years. It is then necessary to visit Malta to provide biometric data for the residence card. The critical point is that one must rent an apartment before requesting a residence permit. In addition, the applicant must be prepared to pay the residence card – €10,000, government fees – €5,000 for the principal applicant, €1,000 for each dependant, and residence card – €27.50 (payable for the applicant).
2. Eligibility for citizenship. From the date of issuance of the residency card, the application must be submitted within 12 months. Failure to do so within the specified period will revoke the card. Additional information or documents may be requested from the applicant. After a thorough review, the application is forwarded to the minister for a decision on granting citizenship. At this stage, a due diligence fee of €15,000 for the applicant and €10,000 for each dependent over the age of 13, and €1,000 for administrative fees must be paid. 
3. Obtaining citizenship. After being granted residency status, you can apply to the CMA. The application is processed 2-3 months after approval. You have to pay 500 euros in administrative fees at this stage.
4. Naturalization Stage. When all investment requirements are met, the applicant and dependents will be invited to visit the country to take the oath of allegiance. This procedure must be completed within six months of the date of citizenship. Applicant receives passport, citizenship, and certificate of naturalization. It is necessary to pay €600,000 or €750,000 for the applicant and €50,000 for each dependent. It is also required to make a charitable donation of 10,000 euros. 

Taxes for new Maltese citizens 

Taxes are calculated according to the individual’s tax residency and source of income. A citizen may be exempt from taxation, especially if he does not intend to live in the country. If the source of income is not located in the territory of Malta, it is not subject to taxation.

Obtaining citizenship in Malta by naturalization has many advantages. After obtaining Maltese citizenship, investors have it for life. It is also inherited: children born to citizens after the procedure become Maltese citizens automatically. If there is no readiness to apply for citizenship, the Malta permanent Residence program is available as an alternative. “Once you get permanent residency status, you can become a resident, which makes a minimum of 98 thousand euros state contribution. At the same time, you must agree to rent a property for 10,000 euros per year. You also need to make a charitable donation of 2,000 euros,” explains Immigrant Invest specialist Zlata Erlach.  

Agency PR in Malta will advise on all stages of obtaining citizenship and help prepare appropriately for the procedure.