Updated: 19 December, 2024
Dual citizenship is an increasingly popular choice among individuals and families seeking alternative nationalities alongside their original ones. For high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), Malta stands out as a preferred destination due to its scenic landscape, European Union (EU) membership, booming economy, and political stability. This guide consolidates everything you need to know about obtaining and maintaining dual citizenship in Malta.
How to Obtain Dual Citizenship in Malta
Malta’s citizenship laws are governed by the Malta Citizenship Act (Cap. 188, Laws of Malta) and allow for dual citizenship without requiring renunciation of existing citizenships. Here are the primary ways to obtain citizenship:
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By Birth
- Anyone born on or after August 1, 1989, is entitled to Maltese citizenship if at least one parent is a citizen of Malta.
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By Descent
- Individuals born abroad can claim Maltese citizenship if they have a family connection to Malta. Eligibility criteria include:
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- At least one parent descended from an ancestor born in Malta.
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- The ancestor’s parent was also born in Malta.
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- Living parents or grandparents must apply for citizenship or be citizens through the line of descent.
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By Marriage
- Spouses of Maltese citizens may apply for citizenship by registration if:
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- They have been married for at least five years.
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- They are living together or legally separated at the time of application.
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- They are widowed by a Maltese citizen.
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By Investment
The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (NESDI) program offers citizenship to high-net-worth individuals who:
- Make a direct investment in Malta’s economy.
- Donate to a Maltese philanthropic organization.
- Hold residential property in Malta.
Applicants can choose between two timelines:
- Citizenship after three years of residency.
- Citizenship after one year of residency (with higher investment).
The program is regulated by S.L. 188.05 and capped at 1,500 applicants.
Benefits of Dual Citizenship in Malta
Dual citizenship in Malta offers a wealth of advantages, making it a highly attractive option for individuals and families. Here are the key benefits:
Enhanced Mobility
- Visa-Free Travel: Maltese citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries, including EU nations and the Schengen Area.
- Ease of Travel: Dual citizenship allows seamless movement between countries, reducing travel restrictions and paperwork.
Political and Social Stability
- Peace and Security: Malta’s stable government and membership in the EU—a Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization—ensure a secure and peaceful environment.
- Social Integration: Dual citizens gain access to Malta’s social security benefits, healthcare, and other public services.
Education and Career Opportunities
- Access to EU Education: Maltese citizens can benefit from high-quality and affordable education in Malta and across the EU.
- Global Career Flexibility: Dual citizenship enhances employability, allowing individuals to work in multiple countries without the need for work permits.
Family Reunification
- Easier Sponsorship: Dual citizenship simplifies family reunification processes, enabling smoother residence pathways for relatives.
- Generational Benefits: Children born to Maltese citizens automatically inherit citizenship, securing a legacy of opportunities for future generations.
Cultural and Lifestyle Enrichment
- Connection to Heritage: For individuals with Maltese ancestry, citizenship offers a meaningful connection to their cultural roots.
- Access to Maltese Lifestyle: Enjoy Malta’s vibrant culture, Mediterranean cuisine, and year-round pleasant climate.
Tax and Financial Advantages
- Efficient Tax Planning: Malta’s favorable tax policies provide opportunities to optimize financial strategies for individuals and businesses.
- Financial Freedom: Dual citizenship allows individuals to hold assets and bank accounts in multiple countries, offering greater financial flexibility.
EU Membership and Global Influence
- Unrestricted EU Access: As EU citizens, Maltese passport holders can live, work, and travel freely across all EU member states.
- Global Power: Being part of the EU’s 27-member bloc provides Maltese citizens with access to collective economic and political influence.
Investment Opportunities
- Citizenship by Investment: Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program offers a clear pathway to citizenship for investors, contributing to economic growth through direct investments.
- Real Estate Options: Citizenship programs often involve real estate investments, providing opportunities to own lucrative properties in Malta.
High Living Standards
- World-Class Amenities: Malta boasts exceptional healthcare, education, and environmental standards, making it an ideal location for families and individuals seeking a high quality of life.
How is Dual Citizenship a Powerful Investment?
Dual citizenship is a powerful investment for individuals and families, particularly high-net-worth individuals. Here are some key advantages:
Expanding your Horizons
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Access to More Markets
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Diversification of Capital and Investments |
More Real Estate Options |
Excellent Retirement Options
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High-Quality Education for Children |
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Expanding Your Horizons
Dual citizenship allows individuals to live and work in two countries, offering greater flexibility and opportunities. With two passports, you can:
- Travel visa-free to more countries.
- Experience diverse cultures and traditions.
- Access broader career and lifestyle options.
The ability to explore new environments enriches personal and professional growth.
Suggested Reading: 190 visa-free countries with Malta Passport
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Access to More Markets
Dual citizenship provides access to multiple booming industries across different countries. This allows businesses to:
- Expand into international markets.
- Set up companies with ease in resident countries.
- Leverage advantageous regimes for business re-domiciliation.
This global access creates opportunities for diversification and economic growth.
Suggested reading: Top business opportunities in Malta
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Diversification of Capital and Investments
With dual citizenship, capital movement becomes more flexible. For example:
- An EU passport allows you to move and invest capital freely within the EU.
- Diversify your investments into various industries and regions.
This flexibility ensures robust financial planning and broader investment opportunities.
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More Real Estate Options
Many countries with citizenship-by-investment programs require property investment, which benefits applicants by:
- Offering lucrative real estate opportunities.
- Providing options to rent or sell properties after maintaining them for a specific period.
Real estate investments often appreciate in value, adding another layer of financial security.
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Excellent Retirement Options
Dual citizenship enables retirees to:
- Choose the ideal country for their retirement based on climate, lifestyle, and healthcare.
- Secure a comfortable and enjoyable retirement in a preferred destination.
Malta’s quality of life makes it a top choice for retirees.
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High-Quality Education for Children
Dual citizenship opens doors to world-class education. Children benefit from:
- Access to prestigious institutions in both countries.
- Affordable tuition fees in regions like the EU.
This ensures they have diverse and enriching educational opportunities, preparing them for global careers.
Steps to Apply for Citizenship
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that your home country permits dual citizenship.
- Prepare Documentation: Collect relevant documents such as:
- Birth certificates.
- Marriage certificates (if applicable).
- Address proof and government-issued IDs.
- Certificates proving lineage for citizenship by descent.
- Submit Application: Applications can be submitted through local consulates or directly in Malta.
- Engage Experts: Professional services, like those offered by Endevio, can simplify the application process.
Maintaining Dual Citizenship in Malta
Malta imposes no restrictions on holding dual citizenship. However, maintaining citizenship involves certain responsibilities:
- Renew Passports and IDs: Ensure timely renewal of your Maltese passport or ID, which are valid for 10 years.
- Maintain Real Estate Investments: Retain any property acquired as part of the citizenship process.
- Bank Accounts: Maintain active bank accounts in Malta.
- Engage with Maltese Society: Regular visits and active participation in Maltese culture and economy are encouraged.
- Sustain Residential Ties: Keep a residential address and active bank accounts in Malta.
Conclusion
Dual citizenship in Malta is a strategic investment offering unparalleled benefits for individuals and families. Whether through birth, descent, marriage, or investment, Malta provides diverse pathways to citizenship. By partnering with experts like Endevio, you can navigate the process smoothly and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
Ready to embark on your journey to dual citizenship? Contact us today to explore your best options!
