Malta has revisited the legal framework governing the grant of citizenship by naturalization based on meritwhereby extraordinary talent, service, and contributions to the Republic and humanity at large could be an eligibility criteria for the grant of Maltese citizenship.
What Is Malta’s Citizenship by Merit?
The provisions in the Maltese Citizenship legislation regarding Citizenship by Merit refer to a pathway for individuals to acquire Maltese citizenship based on exceptional achievements, contributions, or services that are deemed to be of significant value to Malta or to humanity. In this regard the Maltese Citizenship Act was recently amended by means of Act XXI of 2025 together with Subsidiary Legislation 188.06, which is the implementing legal instrument as regards processes and eligibility criteria for such implementation. The Minister responsible for citizenship has discretionary authority to grant naturalisation on this basis.
Who may be eligible to acquire Citizenship by Merit?
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate exceptional merit by their exceptional services rendered and/or contributions, which are deemed to be manifestly superior or adding value and which may include job creation.
Individuals may qualify if they render a service of outstanding importance to Maltese society, in fields such as:
- Science and technology
- Public health
- Arts, culture and education
- Sports and athletics
- Entrepreneurship and business innovation
- Philanthropy and social impact
- Academic achievements or research excellence
The legislation refers to such persons being of “exceptional interest” and the Minister shall assess such attribute if they possess the necessary skills, profile, qualities, talents and expertise that are considered to significantly advance or benefit the national interest of Malta Importantly, citizenship by merit is not a standard checklist programme. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis by a designated Evaluation Board and ultimately by the Minister, with a focus on authenticity, integrity, ties developed with Malta and future contribution potential
Application Process for Citizenship by Merit
The process begins with the submission of a detailed proposal through the Community Malta Agency. Applicants must include:
- A documented overview of their achievements
- Evidence of contributions or services rendered
- A forward-looking plan outlining how they will continue to benefit Malta after naturalisation
After submission, the proposal undergoes rigorous due diligence and a merit assessment by an expert Evaluation Board. Applicants may be invited for interviews or further clarification. If the Board supports the proposal, a recommendation is made to the Minister, who has ultimate authority for the applicant to submit a formal application for naturalization. Provided that the requirements established by law, which include amongst others a minimum of 8-month residence in Malta, title to property, proof of all the ties committed in the proposal letter, the Minister may grant the applicant Maltese citizenship.
Benefits of Maltese Citizenship by Merit
Successful applicants and their eligible dependants, who are the spouse or partner, minor children or dependent children as defined by the law, gain all the rights and privileges of Maltese citizenship,
Conclusion
Malta’s citizenship-by-merit framework objective is to include in its policy, individuals who can bring intellectual, cultural, humanitarian, or economic value to its society and enhances Malta’s contribution to global progress, whereby the said individuals will maintain by their contribution they maintain their ties and in the process nurture that special relationship and good faith with Malta and its society.
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