Foreign nationals married to a Maltese citizen may apply for Maltese citizenship by registration under the Maltese Citizenship Act. This process allows a spouse of a Maltese national to acquire citizenship once specific legal criteria are satisfied.
Eligibility Criteria for Maltese Citizenship by Marriage
To qualify for Maltese citizenship as the spouse of a Maltese citizen, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Five-Year Marriage Requirement: The couple must have been legally married for at least five (5) years before the date of application.
- Genuine and Ongoing Marriage: The spouses must still be married and living together at the time of application.
- Civil Unions Included: Registered civil unions and same-sex marriages are treated equally under Maltese law.
- Widowed Spouses: A surviving spouse may apply if the couple had been married and living together for at least five years prior to the Maltese spouse’s death.
- Good Character & Public Interest: Citizenship is granted at the discretion of the Minister responsible for citizenship and must not be contrary to public interest.
Application Process Overview
- Prepare Documentation
- Submit Application – Filed with the relevant Maltese authorities
- Background Checks – Authorities assess eligibility and conduct due diligence
- Ministerial Decision – Citizenship is granted by registration if approved
Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of the case and supporting documentation provided.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long do you need to be married to get Maltese citizenship?
You must be married to a Maltese citizen for at least five years before applying.
2. Do I need to live in Malta for five years?
There is no strict requirement to reside in Malta for the full five years; however, the couple must prove they have been genuinely living together.
3. Can I apply if we live abroad?
Yes. As long as the five-year marriage requirement is met and the marriage is ongoing and genuine, you may apply even if residing outside Malta.
4. Does Malta allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Malta permits dual or multiple citizenship, meaning you may not need to renounce your existing nationality (subject to your home country’s laws).
5. What happens if my Maltese spouse passes away?
A widow or widower may still qualify, provided the couple had been married and living together for the required five-year period prior to the spouse’s death.
6. Is the approval automatic after five years?
No. Even if all criteria are met, citizenship is granted at ministerial discretion and subject to due diligence checks.
For professional guidance or further information on the Maltese Citizenship by Marriage application process, we invite you to contact us for an initial consultation. You may Liana Falzon at [email protected]. Our team would be pleased to assist you throughout each stage of the process, delivering advice with the highest standards of professionalism, discretion, and clarity.
