Malta Citizenship by Merit
The Malta Citizenship by Merit framework recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional achievements or contributions delivering tangible benefit to Malta. It focuses on merit, national value and long-term engagement — through philanthropy, business innovation, science, research, culture, sport and social development — rather than on financial investment.
Applicants who provide an exceptional service or contribution that adds value to Malta, or to humanity at large, or whose naturalisation is deemed to be of extraordinary national interest, may qualify for Maltese citizenship on this basis. The granting of citizenship is discretionary.
The application process
1. Letter of Intent and temporary residence
Applicants submit a Letter of Intent to Community Malta Agency, formally expressing interest and giving a high-level overview of their background, achievements and proposed contribution. Once accepted, the applicant may be issued a one-year residence card linked to a Maltese residential address, allowing them to establish or maintain a connection with Malta while the full proposal is reviewed.
2. Due diligence and KYC checks
Applicants undergo verification of identity, background and source of funds for any financial or philanthropic contribution, ensuring they meet the "fit and proper person" requirement set out in the legislation.
3. Proposal preparation and submission
Applicants prepare a detailed proposal with supporting documentation evidencing their achievements, professional accomplishments or philanthropic initiatives — legal documents, certifications, or proof of contributions to charitable or government-approved projects. Community Malta Agency and an independent evaluation board review it and make a recommendation.
4. Evaluation and final approval
The Minister responsible for citizenship considers the recommendation. If approved, citizenship is granted in accordance with Maltese law, recognising the applicant's exceptional contribution.
Where MaltaDesks fits in
Applicants are required to establish a genuine link with Malta, and the temporary residence card issued during assessment is tied to a Maltese residential address. We provide the registered accommodation and correspondence address that supports this, along with the accommodation documentation the application requires.
We do not market or sell citizenship. This route recognises genuine contribution to Maltese society, and the decision rests with the Maltese authorities.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with Community Malta Agency before applying.
- Basis
- Merit
- Grants
- Full EU citizenship
- Assessed by
- Community Malta Agency
- Decision
- Discretionary
Eligibility
Who can apply
Exceptional contribution
Measurable national impact
A genuine link with Malta
Fit and proper person
What you'll need
- A Letter of Intent addressed to Community Malta Agency
- A detailed proposal evidencing achievements and contributions
- Supporting legal documents, certifications or proof of contributions
- Identity and background documentation for due diligence
- Source of funds evidence for any financial or philanthropic contribution
- Proof of a Maltese residential address during assessment
Duration and fees
- Basis of grant
- Merit
- Temporary residence card
- 1 year during assessment
- Assessment
- Agency + independent board
- Final decision
- Responsible Minister
- Family inclusion
- Spouse/partner + dependent children
Benefits
Why this route works
Full EU citizenship
Visa-free travel and the right to reside and work within the EU and Schengen Area.
Healthcare and education
Access to Malta's healthcare and education systems.
Security and stability
A safe European jurisdiction, with stability for families.
Recognition
Formal recognition for contributions with national and European impact.
How we help
Accommodation that meets the requirement
Applications are delayed or refused when accommodation documentation isn't compliant. We provide leases built for exactly this purpose.
- Registered room leases from €400 per month
- Registration with the Housing Authority
- An official correspondence address
- Mail handling and ongoing administrative support
See our full range of services, or walk through the application process step by step.
Common questions
How does the application start?
With a Letter of Intent to Community Malta Agency, giving a high-level overview of your background, achievements and proposed contribution to Malta. Once accepted, you may be issued a one-year residence card linked to a Maltese residential address, which lets you establish a connection with Malta while the full proposal is reviewed.
What due diligence is involved?
Standard due diligence and KYC checks, including verification of identity, background and source of funds for any financial or philanthropic contribution. These ensure applicants meet the "fit and proper person" requirement set out in the legislation.
Who makes the final decision?
The proposal is reviewed by Community Malta Agency and an independent evaluation board, which makes a recommendation to the Minister responsible for citizenship. The Minister then decides. The granting of citizenship is discretionary.
Can I include my family?
Eligible applications may include a spouse or partner and dependent children, subject to the applicable requirements.
Can citizenship be bought?
No. This route recognises genuine, exceptional contribution — it is not an investment programme, and the decision is discretionary.
Need a registered lease for the Malta Citizenship by Merit?
Tell us your timeline and we'll confirm what you need and how quickly we can arrange it.