Granting of

Citizenship by Merit

Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)

Investing in Malta Through Exceptional Contributions

Following the April 2025 European Court of Justice ruling, Malta replaced its former Citizenship by Investment programme with a merit-based naturalisation pathway (LN159/2025). Citizenship may now be granted to individuals whose personal achievements, contributions, or public service deliver a measurable benefit to Malta or humanity, or whose naturalisation is of exceptional national interest.

We can connect you with our trusted law firm partners, who will guide you through the application process and ensure compliance with all legal and procedural requirements.

Eligibility and Requirements

Who can apply?

Applicants may qualify by making exceptional contributions in areas such as:

Scientific research, education, or innovation
Arts, culture, and sport
Public health or civil service
National security and humanitarian causes
Entrepreneurship and technology
Philanthropy

Exceptional contributions include initiatives that:

Create jobs or boost Malta’s economy
Achieve international recognition that raises Malta’s profile
Support charitable or social causes aligned with Maltese values
Develop cultural, technological, or scientific projects of national relevance

Evaluation: Originality, relevance, and tangible impact, guided by Malta Vision 2050.

Malta Vision 2050 – Strategic Sectors

The programme prioritises contributions in seven sectors driving sustainable economic growth:

Tourism – premium tourism, cultural and gastronomic projects
Gaming & Digital – video games, e-sports, digital ecosystems
Shipping & Freeport – expand port capacity, trade lanes, logistics
Blue & Green Economies – marine sustainability, renewables, circular economy
Financial Services & Fintech – investment funds, fintech innovation, sectoral education
Aviation – aircraft registration, MRO capabilities, route expansion
High-End Manufacturing – semiconductors, pharma, biotech, R&D incentives

Application Process

How to secure Maltese Citizenship

Step 1

Proposal Submission

Submit a Proposal Letter to the Community Malta Agency detailing your background, experience, and the contribution you wish to make.

Step 2

Initial Due Diligence

The Agency conducts preliminary checks and refers the proposal to an Independent Evaluation Board.

Step 3

Evaluation by Expert Board

The Board, composed of a Chairperson and two industry experts, assesses contributions across relevant sectors (arts, science, technology, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, etc.).

Step 4

Ministerial Decision

The Minister exercises discretion, guided by the Board’s recommendations.

Step 5

In-Principle Approval

Successful applicants receive an ‘in principle’ letter, after which the full application is submitted.

Step 6

Additional Requirements

Minimum 8 months residence in Malta
Access to adequate housing (purchase or lease)
Adequate command of Maltese and/or English
Evidence of genuine links to Malta in line with your proposal

Application Process

How to secure Maltese Citizenship

Step 1

Proposal Submission

Submit a Proposal Letter to the Community Malta Agency detailing your background, experience, and the contribution you wish to make.

Securing Your Legacy in Malta

Benefits of Citizenship by Naturalisation on the Basis of Merit

Citizenship by Merit (LN159/2025) opens the door to a wealth of enduring advantages.

Visa-Free Access to 185+ countries

Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to ~188 countries, including the EU, the US, and Canada.

EU Citizenship rights to live, work and study across the EU

Top-Ranked Passport (7th globally – Henley Index 2025)

Family Inclusion (spouse, children, parents)

Secure & Stable (political, legal, and economic environment)

High Quality of Life with top healthcare, education, and culture

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