About the Country
Investment Options
Program & Benefits
Visa-Free Countries
Malta
Program and benefits of Malta citizenship by investment
Since the 2008 global financial crisis, the Maltese government has put tremendous effort into attracting foreign investments to strengthen its economy. In November 2020, the Malta Exceptional Investment Naturalization (MEIN) program replaced the Malta Individual Investor Program (IIP) that had been in place since 2014. Both programs have been successful because of the country’s political stability, strategic location within the heart of Europe, and an increased global need for second citizenship by nationals of developing countries.
The Malta Exceptional Investment Naturalization (MEIN) is based on Legal Notice 437 of 2020, which states that an applicant’s direct investment in Malta can qualify for citizenship under the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services Regulations (S.L. 188.06). This program allows individuals, along with their families, to acquire citizenship upon meeting the Malta passport by investment criteria.
Certificates of Naturalization are only issued following a thorough due diligence check and after meeting all the financial and residential requirements. As part of the Malta passport by investment and citizenship application process, the Maltese government requires the applicant to provide proof of 12 months or 36 months of residency in Malta, depending on the route chosen. This may include factors such as a permanent residence in Malta, regular visits to the country, utility bills, memberships, and other options.
Program Requirements
To qualify for citizenship and gain a Malta passport by investment, applicants need to undergo a strict due diligence process. To apply for the Malta Exceptional Investment Naturalization (MEIN), an applicant must satisfy all of the following financial criteria: direct investment contribution fees (non-refundable), a donation to a registered organization (non-refundable), and acquisition of residential real estate property (held for 5 years).
About the Country
Program & Benefits
Investment Options
Visa-Free Countries
Benefits of Malta
Passport by Investment
Steps and Timeline
Month
One
Step 1: Prequalification of the primary applicant
Step 2: Citizenship Bay and the client enter into a service agreement
Step 3: Advice and assistance are provided to the client with the preparation of documents and government forms
Step 4: Application to the government of Malta is submitted. Due diligence fees, passport fees, and down payment for the government contribution are due at this stage.
Step 5: Application to the government of Malta is submitted. Due diligence fees, passport fees, and down payment for the government contribution are due at this stage.
Month
Two – Three
Step 6: Transfer of the contribution balance amount to the government within 25 days of issuing the approval letter is completed.
Month
Four – Five
Step 7: Acquisition of a permanent residence and additional investment in Malta (bonds, shares, etc.) must be made within 4 months of receiving the approval letter.
Step 8: Applicants take an Oath of Allegiance in Malta.
Step 9: Government issues citizenship and passports to the investor and their family.
Month One
Step 1:
Prequalification of the primary applicant
Step 2:
Citizenship Bay and the client enter into a service agreement
Step 3:
Advice and assistance are provided to the client with the preparation of documents and government forms
Step 4:
Application to the government of Malta is submitted. Due diligence fees, passport fees, and down payment for the government contribution are due at this stage.
Month Two – Three
Step 5:
The government issues “Approval in Principle” after completion of due diligence and full assessment of the application.
Step 6:
Transfer of the contribution balance amount to the government within 25 days of issuing the approval letter is completed.
Month Four – Five
Step 7:
Acquisition of a permanent residence and additional investment in Malta (bonds, shares, etc.) must be made within 4 months of receiving the approval letter.
Step 8:
Applicants take an Oath of Allegiance in Malta.
Step 9:
Government issues citizenship and passports to the investor and their family.
Learn more about Malta
About the Country
Investment Options
Visa-Free Countries
