Citizenship by Merit

Overview

Malta’s Citizenship by Merit programme is a selective naturalisation pathway for individuals whose exceptional achievements or contributions are considered of significant value to the Republic of Malta.

Introduced under Legal Notice LN159/2025, the programme reflects Malta’s strategic focus on attracting high-impact individuals aligned with its long-term national priorities.

Key Features & Benefits

• Citizenship by naturalisation granted on the basis of merit
• Discretionary evaluation process guided by national interest
• Alignment with Malta Vision 2050, supporting sustainable and high-value growth

Who May Qualify

Applicants must demonstrate exceptional contributions within fields of national relevance, including:

• Scientific research, education, and innovation
• Arts, culture, and sport
• Entrepreneurship and economic development
• Technology and digital advancement
• Philanthropy and humanitarian initiatives
• Public health, civil service, or national security

Eligibility is assessed based on originality, measurable impact, and relevance, with a focus on how the applicant’s contribution benefits Malta’s economy, global positioning, or societal development.

Definition of “Exceptional Services”

An exceptional service is one that delivers a clear and measurable benefit to Malta, such as:

• Launching initiatives that create jobs or boost Malta’s economy.
• Achieving international recognition that raises Malta’s profile.
• Supporting social or charitable causes aligned with Maltese values.
• Developing technological or cultural projects that position Malta as a leader in specific fields.

All applications are assessed in line with Malta’s long-term strategic framework under Vision 2050.

Application Process

1. The Main applicant submits a Proposal Letter to the Community Malta Agency (the Agency) setting out the applicant’s background, experience and an overview of the outstanding contribution that he/she wishes to render.
2. The Agency conducts initial due diligence and refers the proposal to an Independent Evaluation Board.
3. The Board shall include a Chairperson and two industry experts that are selected by the Chairperson from 3 panels that will be appointed by the Minister, having knowledge of sport, culture, arts, science, research, philanthropy, technology, entrepreneurship and any other area that may be established from time to time.
4. The Minister shall exercise his discretion but will be guided by the Board’s recommendations.
5. Approved applicants shall be issued with an ‘in principle’ letter of approval, following which a full application is submitted.
6. Additional requirements that must be observed:
   1. Evidence of at least 8 months residence in Malta
   2. Access to adequate, residential housing by title of sale or lease
   3. Adequate command of the Maltese and/or English language
   4. Evidence of genuine links to Malta in line with proposal

For further information please contact pcu@arqgroup.com. 

Please Note: Community Malta Agency and Residency Malta Agency have suspended, until further notice, the processing of citizenship and residency applications for nationals of the Russian Federation and Belarus. Click here for the full press release.