Legal Notice 159 of 2025 introduces the Granting of Citizenship by Naturalisation on the Basis of Merit Regulations. This new regulation offers a structured and merit-based path to acquiring Maltese citizenship for individuals who have rendered, or intend to render, exceptional services or contributions to Malta or humanity, or who are considered of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta.
Applications under these regulations are administered by the Community Malta Agency (AKM), which is responsible for receiving and processing applications, conducting due diligence, and coordinating the work of the Evaluation Board appointed by the Minister responsible for citizenship.
Eligibility for Citizenship by Merit
Applicants must:
- Render or intend to render an exceptional service or contribution to Malta or humanity, or be of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta.
Family members that may be included:
- Spouse or partner in a monogamous marriage or equivalent relationship.
- Children under 18, including adopted children.
- Unmarried, financially dependent children aged 18 to 28.
Applicants are disqualified if they or their dependants have been refused a visa to a country with which Malta has visa-free travel, unless the refusal was not based on public policy, security, or health concerns.
Overview of the Citizenship by Merit Application Process
1- Submission of Proposal Letter
The process begins with the submission of a detailed Proposal Letter to the Community Malta Agency. This document must include:
- An introduction and overview of the applicant’s background and accomplishments.
- A description of the exceptional contribution or service the applicant intends to make.
- A forward-looking plan detailing how the applicant will establish genuine links with Malta post-naturalisation.
The Agency will carry out an initial due diligence review and request the payment of non-refundable administrative fees before referring the proposal to the Evaluation Board.
2- Evaluation of the Proposal
An independent Evaluation Board, composed of a legally qualified chairperson and two subject matter experts, assesses the proposal. The Board may:
- Request further documentation.
- Interview the applicant’s representatives or other relevant parties.
The Board then submits its recommendation to the Minister via the Agency. If the proposal is approved, the applicant is issued a Letter of Approval in Principle.
3- Application for Naturalisation
Once the Letter of Approval in Principle is issued, the applicant may submit a full citizenship application. This must include:
- Proof of residence in Malta for at least 8 months preceding the application.
- Title to adequate residential property (leased or owned).
- Evidence of the contribution or service rendered or planned.
- Proof of language proficiency in English or Maltese.
- Confirmation of genuine links with Malta, as outlined in the Proposal Letter.
A second round of due diligence is conducted. The completed application is reviewed again by the Evaluation Board, which provides its recommendation to the Minister. If approved, the Letter of Approval is issued.
Naturalisation, Oath and Ongoing Commitments
Following the Letter of Approval:
- The applicant must take the Oath of Allegiance within six months (extendable in exceptional cases).
- Prior to the oath, the applicant must sign a written undertaking to continue fulfilling obligations and commitments.
- The Agency is empowered to monitor compliance and may require supporting documentation.
Revocation of Citizenship
Citizenship may be revoked by the Minister if:
- The applicant fails to honour the commitments or obligations outlined in the application.
- The citizenship was obtained through false representations or concealment of facts.
Our Citizenship by Merit Law Practice
At ACC Immigration, our specialised Citizenship team offers comprehensive legal and tax support for individuals pursuing Maltese citizenship whether by merit, descent, marriage or other naturalisation pathways. We guide you through every step of the process, beginning with a thorough eligibility assessment before the application is initiated. Our team supports the preparation and submission of all necessary documentation and advises on the exceptional services and contributions to be made while helping you establish meaningful connections with Malta.
