Overview of the legal provisions on Maltese Citizenship by Merit under Maltese law (Chapter 188 Maltese Citizenship Act).
Legal Framework: Malta Citizenship by Merit
Malta has a dedicated legal framework for the granting of citizenship to individuals who can demonstrate exceptional service or an exceptional contribution made or intended to be made, to Malta or to humanity, or are of an exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta, and who would continue pursuing contribution after their naturalisation. The granting of citizenship is discretionary.
Article 10(9) of the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188 of the Laws of Malta) provides that:
“Notwithstanding the provisions of this or any other Act, the Minister may grant a certificate of naturalisation as a citizen of Malta to an alien or stateless person, who has rendered exceptional services to the Republic of Malta or to humanity, or whose naturalisation is of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta, and who satisfies the requirements prescribed under this Act. For the purposes of this sub-article, ‘exceptional’ means manifestly superior, and refers primarily to contributions by scientists, researchers, athletes, sports people, artists, cultural performers, investors and entrepreneurs.”
The requirements and procedures for acquiring citizenship by merit are provided for in Subsidiary Legislation 188.06 of the Laws of Malta.
Any granting of citizenship under these provisions is subject to strict compliance with due diligence and national security considerations, in line with Malta’s international obligations.
Naturalisation for Individuals rendering Exceptional Services
The Maltese Citizenship Act (Article 10(9)) outlines that “exceptional services” refer to contributions provided by individuals to the Republic of Malta or humanity and whose naturalisation is of exceptional interest to the nation.
Categories that fall under “exceptional services” include:
- Scientists
- Researchers
- Athletes
- Sports people
- Artists
- Cultural performers
- Entrepreneurs
- Philanthropists
- Technologists
Moreover, “exceptional interest” refers to any person who shall be deemed by the Minister to possess the necessary skills, profile, qualities, talents and expertise that are considered to significantly advance or benefit the national interest of the Republic of Malta.
How to Apply for Malta Citizenship by Merit
Competent lawyers for prospective applicants are required to initiate the process by submitting a detailed proposal letter with their achievements, evidence of exceptional services/contributions made or intended to be made, or special interest, and a clear plan of how they will continue to develop and maintain ties to Malta.
The proposal must be accompanied by the relevant documentation, including:
- A detailed curriculum vitae outlining the applicant’s professional background and achievements;
- Reference letters or endorsements attesting to the applicant’s accomplishments or standing;
- Supporting documents that clearly explain the applicant’s profession, notable contributions, and expression of interest in acquiring Maltese citizenship by merit.
Requirements of Maltese Citizenship by Merit
When applicants are formally applying for a certificate of Maltese citizenship by naturalisation under the Citizenship by Merit provisions, they must demonstrate:
- Residency: Applicants must have held residence in Malta for a minimum of eight months.
- Property: Applicants need to have rented or purchased a residential property in Malta.
- Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate good character and conduct. This includes having a clean criminal record and being of good repute.
- Language: Applicants must demonstrate adequate knowledge of either Maltese or English.
- Contribution to Malta: Applicants must provide evidence of ties established to Malta as outlined in the proposal letter.