Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation and Registration

Ways to Acquire Citizenship in Malta

Acquiring citizenship in Malta can be achieved through the following pathways:

• Birth
• Citizenship by Naturalisation; Ordinary Naturalisation
• Citizenship by Naturalisation; On the Basis of Merit
• Citizenship by Registration

Below, you may find a detailed overview about the Naturalisation and Registration methods.

Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation; Ordinary Naturalisation Requirements

To be able to apply for Maltese citizenship by naturalisation, one of the following conditions must be satisfied:

Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation; On the Basis of Merit Requirements

This merit-based route is designed for individuals who stand out in their fields and whose work aligns with Malta’s strategic or cultural aspirations. While the legislation does not limit itself to specific sectors, examples of individuals who may be considered include:

• Scientists and researchers
• Artists, cultural performers, and creatives
• Athletes and sports professionals
• Technologists and innovators
• Entrepreneurs with demonstrable impact
• Philanthropists delivering social or humanitarian value

For globally established individuals—or those showing exceptional promise—this framework represents a way for Malta to recognise contribution at the highest levels.

Malta Citizenship by Registration Requirements

To be able to apply for Maltese citizenship by registration, one of the following conditions must be satisfied:

The Difference Between Citizenship by Registration & Naturalisation

Citizenship by registration and citizenship by naturalisation are two distinct legal pathways under Maltese law, each serving different circumstances. Citizenship by registration is generally available to individuals who already have a direct legal or familial connection to Malta, such as spouses, widows or widowers of Maltese citizens, former Maltese citizens, or individuals who qualify through descent under specific historical and constitutional provisions. Registration is largely a declaratory process, meaning that if the statutory conditions are met and the required documentation is provided, citizenship is typically granted.

Citizenship by naturalisation, on the other hand, is primarily intended for individuals who do not qualify through registration but who have established a genuine and sustained connection to Malta. This pathway usually requires long-term lawful residence, integration into Maltese society, knowledge of English or Maltese, good character, and the support of qualified sponsors. Naturalisation is not an automatic right: even where all statutory conditions are satisfied, the granting of citizenship remains discretionary and subject to approval by the Minister responsible for citizenship.

Benefits of the Citizenship by Naturalisation and Registration

There are many benefits to citizenship by naturalisation in Malta. These include family reunification and being able to pass on citizenship to descendants. Furthermore, the individual holding citizenship can live and work in Malta without any other permissions and benefit from visa-free travel and residence in the EU. A Maltese passport also facilitates visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to 185 countries, including the US, Australia, the UK and Canada.  In addition, individuals can benefit from the fact that Malta is centrally located, with excellent air links. It is also an attractive place to live due to excellent lifestyle, climate and safety. Successful applicants are also entitled to first-class free healthcare, high-standard education.

Documents Required for Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation; Ordinary Naturalisation

The documents needed to acquire citizenship by naturalisation in Malta will depend on the criteria for the application. It is necessary to fill out an application form, pay an applicable fee, and present documentation supporting the claim. This can include government-issued identification documents, birth certificates, and documents such as parents’ marriage or birth certificates, grandparents’ marriage or birth certificates, or adoption documentation. In addition, they require at least two sponsors, one being a lawyer, member of the judiciary, MP, senior law enforcement officer or priest. The other can be a citizen of Malta who does not fall under the other categories.

Documents Required for Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation; On The Basis of Merit

Under Article 11A(1) of Subsidiary Legislation 188.06, applicants begin by submitting a detailed proposal letter to the Community Malta Agency. This document explains:

• Their background and achievements
• The exceptional service already rendered or intended
• A forward-looking plan of continued contribution
• Supporting materials and information on eligible dependents

This proposal undergoes a thorough evaluation by an independent board and an intensive due-diligence process carried out by the Agency. The board then issues a recommendation to the Minister responsible for citizenship.
The Minister’s decision is final and fully discretionary.

If approval in principle is granted, applicants may then submit the formal application for naturalisation, subject to statutory requirements including:

• At least eight months of residence in Malta
• Ownership or leasing of adequate residential property
• Endorsement from a competent Maltese body confirming the merit of the applicant’s contribution
• Proof of knowledge of English or Maltese
• Evidence of ties to Malta consistent with the proposal

Only once these requirements are satisfied may the application be considered for a final decision. Successful applicants—and any included dependents—take the Oath of Allegiance and receive the certificate of naturalisation.

It is important to note that the Minister may deprive a person of citizenship granted under this framework if they fail to uphold commitments made in connection with their eligibility.

Citizenship by Naturalisation on the Basis of Merit: A Distinctive Form of Citizenship

What distinguishes this pathway is not only its selectivity, but its purpose. It is reserved for individuals whose achievements elevate Malta or contribute meaningfully to humanity. As such, the naturalisation granted under this framework reflects recognition, trust, and alignment of values.

Those approved become full Maltese citizens, gaining all rights under Maltese law and the benefits of European Union citizenship, including freedom of movement across the EU and the Schengen Area. For global achievers whose work spans continents, this represents a powerful platform for collaboration, mobility, and long-term stability.

Malta’s merit-based naturalisation framework reinforces the country’s international outlook: welcoming exceptional individuals whose expertise, creativity, or leadership can enrich its cultural, scientific or economic landscape.

In a world where mobility, talent, and contribution increasingly define global opportunity, Malta’s approach provides a distinctive and meaningful path—reserved only for those whose achievements truly inspire.

Documents Required for Maltese Citizenship by Registration

When applying for Maltese citizenship by registration, an application form must be submitted to the authorities, along with payment of a fee. In addition, it is necessary to submit several documents, including a government-issued Identification Document; Birth certificate; Marriage certificate; Death certificate if the widow(er) of a Maltese citizen; or parent(s) Birth certificate, depending on the reason for application. The applicant may also need a joint affidavit confirming they have been with a Maltese spouse for five years and are still living together. As with all application processes, the authorities may ask for additional documentation depending on the circumstances.

The Timeline for the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation; Ordinary Naturalisation

The entire process for acquiring citizenship by naturalisation in Malta can take between one and seven years. This is because the applicant should have been resident in Malta for 12 months, plus at least four years within the previous six years. Once that criteria has been satisfied, they can start the application process. In cases of naturalisation due to marriage, the application can be filed after five years. For application due to descent, just one year. The timeline involved can vary significantly depending on the reason for the application and whether the documents submitted are satisfactory. Once the application has been submitted, a decision can be expected within a year.