Malta Citizenship by Merit — Your Guide to Exceptional Services Nationality
A New Era for Citizenship in Malta
Malta’s Citizenship by Merit framework offers a prestigious and highly selective route to Maltese nationality for individuals who have demonstrated, or will demonstrate, exceptional value to the Republic of Malta.
Unlike traditional residency or investment programmes, this route rewards extraordinary talent, innovation, and contribution to Malta’s national interest. Citizenship by Merit is governed by Malta’s Citizenship Act (Cap. 188) and the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Merit Regulations, 2025 (Legal Notice 159 of 2025).
Citizenship may be granted to individuals whose work, innovation, or leadership has had a significant and lasting impact in areas such as:
- Science, research, and education
- National security and humanitarian causes
- Arts, culture, and sport
- Public health and civil service
- Entrepreneurship and business leadership
- Technology, innovation, and philanthropy
Each application is assessed on merit by Community Malta Agency and an independent Evaluation Board, with final approval granted by the Minister responsible for citizenship.
What Is Malta Citizenship by Merit?
Introduced in 2017 and strengthened by Legal Notice 159 of 2025, Citizenship by Merit is a route to naturalisation available only to those who have rendered or are expected to render exceptional services or contributions to Malta or to humanity at large.
This pathway reflects Malta’s commitment to recognising individuals who have achieved international distinction or have made transformative contributions that align with Malta’s Vision 2050 strategy.
Legal Framework
Malta’s Citizenship by Merit is based on Article 10 of the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188), which empowers the Minister to grant citizenship to any person whose naturalisation is considered to be of exceptional national interest.
Legal Notice 159 of 2025 formally establishes:
- The Evaluation Board responsible for reviewing applications
- The criteria for exceptional services
- The residence, due diligence, and compliance process
Each application is assessed individually to ensure it upholds Malta’s integrity, reputation, and national interest.
Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Merit?
Applicants must demonstrate a direct, measurable, and exceptional benefit to Malta. Examples include:
- Pioneering scientific or technological breakthroughs that enhance Malta’s global standing
- Leading innovation or entrepreneurship projects that create local employment
- Advancing Malta’s cultural, sporting, or artistic reputation
- Supporting humanitarian, educational, or philanthropic causes that align with Maltese values
- Promoting sustainable development or social progress in line with Malta Vision 2050
Eligibility is not based on financial investment but on achievement, integrity, and contribution.
Application Process
- Residency Requirement
Applicants must reside legally in Malta for at least eight months before submitting a formal application. - Proposal Letter Submission
A detailed proposal is prepared and submitted via the Community Malta Agency. It outlines the applicant’s background, contributions, and post-naturalisation plans. - Evaluation and Due Diligence
A four-tier due diligence process ensures integrity and compliance. The Evaluation Board reviews the case and issues a recommendation to the Minister. - Approval in Principle
Successful applicants receive a Letter of Approval in Principle, confirming the Minister’s intention to grant citizenship subject to final checks. - Formal Citizenship Application
The applicant then files the formal naturalisation application, supported by proof of residence, endorsements, and documentation of their exceptional service or achievement. - Oath of Allegiance
Once approved, the applicant takes the Oath of Allegiance and formally becomes a citizen of Malta. - Ongoing Compliance
Post-naturalisation, continued alignment with commitments is monitored by the Agency. Citizenship may be revoked in cases of serious non-compliance.
Is There Still a Citizenship by Investment Route in Malta?
No. The previous Citizenship by Investment route was terminated in 2025 following a CJEU ruling against the commercialisation of European citizenship.
Malta now recognises citizenship through merit, not money — a forward-thinking framework that rewards genuine contribution over transactional investment.
How Belair Property Can Help
At Belair Property, we work closely with trusted citizenship advisors and legal experts who can assist in evaluating your eligibility and preparing a professional submission under the Citizenship by Merit framework.
Our team can guide you through:
- Establishing residency in Malta
- Acquiring or leasing qualifying property
- Connecting you with licensed legal and advisory partners for due diligence and application support
If you’re a distinguished individual, entrepreneur, or innovator looking to make Malta your home, our team can help you take the next step confidently.
