ACC is proud to announce the promotion of Antoine Saliba Haig and Marina Magri to Partnership level. Their appointments reflect their expertise, leadership, and dedication to the firm’s continued growth, particularly within the Immigration and Global Mobility practice.
Antoine Saliba Haig – Partner, Global Mobility & Immigration Practice
Antoine has been a core member of the firm since 2014, specialising in Maltese citizenship and residency law. With deep academic and practical experience in investment migration, he has successfully guided clients through a range of citizenship solutions while contributing to the field through publications and international engagements.
Marina Magri – Director, Immigration & Global Mobility Practice
Marina joined the firm in 2015 and has played a vital role advising business families and executives on global mobility and residence planning. In 2024, she was appointed co-head of the immigration arm, where she leads on compliance and risk management, strengthening the practice’s global impact.
These promotions reflect ACC’s continued focus on excellence and client-centric leadership. We congratulate Antoine and Marina on this significant milestone.
The Maltese Government has announced key amendments to the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), enacted through Legal Notice 146 of 2025, aimed at enhancing the programme’s structure, improving flexibility for applicants, and reducing costs for families.
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a temporary residence permit for MPRP applicants. The new provision allows applicants and their families to apply for a one-year renewable permit while their application is being processed enabling them to relocate to Malta earlier in the process.
The amendment also simplifies the programme’s financial framework. The contribution requirement is now fixed at €37,000, regardless of whether the applicant chooses to purchase or rent a qualifying property.
The administration fee for the main applicant has been set at €60,000, payable in two stages: an initial €15,000 on submission of the application and €45,000 following the issuance of the Letter of Approval in Principle.
To support families, the revised rules introduce fee waivers for certain dependants, including spouses, minor children, and adult children with disabilities. In addition, parents and grandparents must now be not in full-time employment in order to qualify as dependants.
The Government has also granted the Agency the power to issue guidelines regulating the use of qualifying property during periods when beneficiaries are temporarily abroad.
The new rules will apply to all MPRP applications submitted on or after 1 January 2025, including those that remain pending when the amendments come into force.
Legal Notice 146 of 2025 reflects Malta’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a transparent and competitive residence programme that remains attractive to global investors and their families.
Our Malta Residence Practice
ACC Immigration’s specialist Malta Residence Practice offers professional, transparent, and comprehensive legal and tax advisory services related to the acquisition of residence status in Malta under regulated programmes such as the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP):
- advising on eligibility for the selected residence programme prior to submission;
- providing pre-immigration
- advice tailored to your personal and financial circumstances;
- guiding you in the preparation and compilation of all required documentation for your residence application;
- reviewing and vetting supporting documents to ensure compliance with programme regulations;
- advising on the investment requirements and assisting with the structuring and holding of qualifying investments;
- supporting you with property rental or acquisition in Malta, including review of promise of sale agreements and assistance with AIP permit applications where required
Following recent amendments to the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188 of the Laws of Malta), the Maltese Government has introduced a renewed and strengthened framework for acquiring Maltese citizenship by merit. This article addresses the most frequently asked questions about these changes and what they mean for prospective applicants.
What is Malta Citizenship by Merit?
Citizenship by merit is a legal pathway for acquiring Maltese citizenship through exceptional services or contributions to Malta or to humanity. Introduced in 2017 and now reinforced through recent legal amendments, this route recognises individuals whose talents, skills, or achievements significantly benefit Malta.
What are the recent changes introduced in 2025?
The Maltese Government amended the Citizenship Act with three main goals:
- Compliance with EU law: The previous “Citizenship for Exceptional Services” programme and its references have been removed in line with the CJEU’s ruling in Case C-181/23.
- Strengthening merit-based citizenship: The new law enhances legal provisions for granting citizenship on merit, aligned with Malta’s long-term Vision 2050 strategy.
- Reaffirming national competence: Malta maintains that granting citizenship remains a national prerogative, as confirmed by the EU Court of Justice.
Who is eligible for Malta Citizenship by Merit?
Eligible applicants include individuals who have provided, or are proposing to provide, exceptional service or contribution to Malta or humanity in fields such as:
- Science & Research
- Culture & the Arts
- Sports & Athletics
- Entrepreneurship
- Philanthropy (newly introduced)
- Technology (newly introduced)
The contribution must be manifestly superior or value-adding, and of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta.
How is “exceptional contribution” defined?
The term refers to a clearly outstanding and beneficial impact on Malta’s national interest. Examples include job creation, internationally recognised innovation, philanthropic initiatives, or high-level achievements in one’s field that elevate Malta’s global reputation.
What is the Malta Citizenship by Merit application process?
The process begins by first acquiring residence in Malta and then submitting a formal application as follows:
- Application Submission: The request is filed with the government agency Komunità Malta.
- Due Diligence: A thorough background and integrity screening is conducted with expert support.
- Evaluation Board: The independent board assesses the application and may interview the applicant.
- Recommendation: The board provides a formal recommendation to the Minister (not merely an opinion, as previously required).
- Ministerial Decision: The Minister makes the final decision to grant citizenship.
Is there an investment or donation requirement?
No. The new framework removes any reference to investors and does not require a fixed contribution or payment. Instead, applicants must propose and demonstrate the exceptional value or service they offer to Malta.
Will due diligence still apply?
Yes. Due diligence remains a central and rigorous component of the process. The government regulator continues to play a key role, and its oversight will be further strengthened under the new framework.
Can authorities seek expert endorsement?
Yes. The evaluation board is now empowered to request an endorsement from a competent authority in the applicant’s field, to confirm the merit of the claimed contribution.
What happens to those who obtained citizenship under the old programme?
Citizenship already granted under the previous regime remains valid and unaffected. These individuals continue to be governed by the same laws and conditions under which they originally obtained citizenship.
What does the law say?
At ACC Immigration, our dedicated Citizenship team provides seamless, end-to-end legal and tax advisory services for individuals seeking to acquire Maltese citizenship through merit or other recognised routes. Our services include:
- Assessing your eligibility before initiating a citizenship application;
- Assisting in the compilation and submission of all required documentation;
The Maltese Government has today announced more details on the proposed amendments to the Maltese Citizenship Act.
At a press briefing following the motion’s tabling, Minister for Home Affairs Byron Camilleri affirmed the government’s commitment to comply with the judgment:
“We will honour the judgment of the EU and conform with its ruling. However, the Court also confirmed that the granting of citizenship remains a national competence. We will be expanding and strengthening the way in which citizenship is granted by merit.”
While the full text is not yet public, the government has made clear its intent to completely remove any transactional or monetary element from the citizenship acquisition process.
The new model will centre around genuine contributions to the Republic of Malta, focusing on individuals who will provide exceptional services or exceptional contributions in areas such as:
- Science and Research
- Innovation and Technology
- Entrepreneurship and Job Creation
- Sports, Arts and Culture
- Philanthropy and Social Impact
The proposed amendments will also formally recognise “job creation” and “technologists and philanthropists” as eligible categories, reflecting Malta’s Vision 2050 goals of driving innovation and societal development.
Crucially, the amendments will eliminate any fixed investment or contribution requirements and shift the focus entirely to merit and public value. As Minister Camilleri clarified, “There will no longer be a set amount of money which applicants must pay to acquire citizenship.”
The evaluation process under the revised framework will also become more rigorous and transparent:
- An Evaluation Board will now be required to issue a formal recommendation (not merely an opinion) to the Minister.
- Sector-specific authorities will advise the Board, and the Board will have the discretion to interview applicants directly.
- Citizenship will remain at the Minister’s discretion, but only following due process and proper sectoral vetting.
- Names of successful applicants will continue to be published, maintaining transparency.
The judgment in EC v Malta reiterated that while nationality remains a national prerogative under Article 4(2) TEU, it must be exercised in a manner consistent with EU law particularly where it impacts Union citizenship under Article 20 TFEU. The Court did not object to naturalisation by merit or exceptional service, but rather the practice of granting nationality in exchange for payment, which undermines the principle of sincere cooperation under Article 4(3) TEU.
ACC Advisors welcomes this evolution in Malta’s citizenship legislation. The shift from a transactional model to a public interest-driven framework is a long-anticipated step toward a more resilient, European-aligned citizenship strategy.
Malta has taken its first legislative step to align its citizenship framework with the recent judgment of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Case C-181/23 – Commission v Malta. On 30th June 2025, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri tabled a bill in Parliament proposing amendments to the Maltese Citizenship Act, marking Malta’s formal response to the EU Court’s ruling in April 2025.
The bill is currently at first reading stage, and in line with standard parliamentary practice, the full text of the proposed amendments has not yet been published. Additional details will be discussed during the second and third reading before a vote is taken. Official statements and have confirmed that the purpose of the bill is to align Malta’s Citizenship framework for investors and entrepreneurs with the principles laid down by the Court.
In its judgment, the ECJ reaffirmed that while nationality remains a national competence under Article 4(2) TEU, Member States must exercise this power in compliance with EU law when it affects Union citizenship under Article 20 TFEU.
While the judgment did not prohibit naturalisation based on exceptional services, it clarified that such legislation must be designed to preserve a meaningful connection between the applicant and the Member State.
Government Response: Legislative Reform Underway
A spokesperson for the Home Affairs Ministry confirmed that Motion No. 381 represents Malta’s first step in amending its citizenship laws in line with the ECJ’s ruling:
“This marks the first reading in Parliament, paving the way for amendments that will comply with the European Union Court’s judgment in Case C-181/23, Commission v. Malta.”
In a government press release dated 29 April 2025, the authorities reiterated their respect for the rule of law, noting that Malta will “study the legal implications of this judgment so that the regulatory framework on citizenship can then be brought in line with the principles outlined in the judgment.”
What Changes Are Expected?
While the draft law has not yet been published, it is expected that the upcoming amendments will aim to:
- Uphold the integrity and value of both Maltese nationality and European Union citizenship.
These reforms aim to preserve a lawful and credible pathway to naturalisation, while fully respecting the principles set out in the EU Court’s judgment.
A Sustainable Path Forward
The forthcoming amendments are expected to reshape Malta’s citizenship offering in a way that balances national interests, EU legal obligations, and the need for a robust and sustainable legal framework.
Our Citizenship Practice
At ACC Advisors, we provide comprehensive immigration and private client advisory services for individuals and families seeking to obtain Maltese citizenship through exceptional services.
Our team offers end-to-end support, including:
- Assessing your eligibility and advising on the most suitable route to citizenship;
- Delivering immigration and tax guidance prior to relocation or application;
- Preparing and reviewing all required documentation to ensure a smooth application process;
- Managing the submission process with precision and care;
- Assisting with property acquisition or rental, including AIP permit applications (required for non-residents), reviewing contracts, and coordinating with notaries.
Our holistic approach ensures that your journey to Maltese citizenship is efficient, and aligned with your personal and financial goals. Get in touch with us today.
Applying for Maltese residency is a major step, one that opens doors to residing in a European country and provides a secure base for international living, business, and family planning. But the application process is complex, and mistakes can be costly. At ACC Immigration, we’ve seen how seemingly small errors can derail an application or lead to long delays. Since a rejection under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme cannot be appealed it is crucial to submit a complete application with all the required documentation and explanations.
In this article we explore the most common pitfalls and how our legal team helps you avoid them with confidence.
Choosing the Right Advisor
Selecting a trusted advisor is the most important step. Many fall into the trap of using unlicensed agents or marketing-driven consultants without legal authority or deep knowledge of Maltese immigration law.
At ACC Immigration, our team consists solely of licensed Maltese lawyers authorized to represent clients directly before the Residency Malta Agency. We lead every case from start to finish, ensuring legal accuracy, risk management, and full compliance.
Residency and citizenship in Malta is a core focus — not a sideline.
Importance of a Tailored Legal Strategy
There is no one-size-fits-all strategy when it comes to Maltese immigration. Each applicant has a unique background, nationality, family setup, source of wealth, and risk profile. Standardised approaches often lead to unnecessary queries, delayed processing, or even rejections.
We begin each engagement with a personalised eligibility assessment, allowing us to anticipate issues and tailor the strategy around your specific circumstances. Our legal insight ensures your application meets not only the letter of the law — but the practical expectations of the agency and assessors overseeing the application file.
Documentation Standards and Legal Formalities
One of the most common and avoidable mistakes is submitting incomplete or improperly prepared documentation. Missing legalisations, incorrect translations, outdated forms, or inconsistencies in your documents can lead to serious delays.
Our legal team applies meticulous attention to detail by reviewing, preparing, and verifying every document to ensure it aligns with current agency standards. Where standard documentation such as birth certificates or police records are unavailable, we advise on suitable alternatives that are still compliant.
We don’t just file paperwork — we provide legal oversight at every step to ensure that nothing is left to chance.
Value Local Presence
Many international service providers work through intermediaries in Malta, often with limited local knowledge or presence. This can slow things down and increase the risk of miscommunication with the agency.
At ACC Immigration, we are a Malta-based firm with a core team of Maltese-born lawyers who live and work here. We engage directly with the relevant authorities and resolve matters in real time. Our deep familiarity with local systems and strong relationships with key stakeholders allow us to act swiftly, navigate cultural nuances, and avoid common bureaucratic pitfalls.
In addition, our team includes professionals who speak a range of languages, enabling us to support clients from diverse backgrounds while maintaining the benefit of strong local grounding.
Protect Confidentiality
Immigration applications require sensitive disclosures about personal, financial, and family matters. Working with licensed lawyers means you benefit from strict lawyer-client privilege under Maltese law.
This confidentiality covers all correspondence, calls, and documents, ensuring your information remains secure and private throughout the process.
Attention to Tax and Financial Planning
Maltese residency and citizenship are not just legal statuses — they have far-reaching implications for tax, succession, and international reporting.
We adopt a holistic approach that integrates immigration, tax structuring, and private client planning. Our legal team works closely with in-house tax advisors and wealth planners to ensure your move is not only legally secure, but also financially strategic and compliant with global requirements.
Why Choose ACC Immigration?
At ACC Immigration, we combine legal expertise with deep local insight to provide an end-to-end, fully compliant service with discretion, professionalism, and results at its core.
We are proud to be:
- Local & Licensed: Based in Malta, authorised to act directly before Komunita Malta and Residency Malta Agency (Licence AKM-ACCA).
- Recognised Experts: Our lawyers are ranked in Legal 500, Chambers & Partners, and Who’s Who Legal for private client, immigration, and citizenship law.
- Multilingual & International: We speak your language. Our team includes native speakers of English, French, Italian, Arabic, Chinese, Ukrainian, and more.
Ready to Apply for Permanent Residency in Malta?
Whether exploring options or preparing to apply, our Malta-based team is ready to guide you with clarity and confidence.
Contact ACC Immigration today to schedule a confidential consultation and take your first step toward Maltese residency.
In a world where mobility, security, and lifestyle are paramount, Malta stands out as a premier destination for High-Net-Worth Individuals seeking a stable, comfortable and strategically located second home, rich in history and culture. Here’s why:
Safety and Stability
Malta consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe. With very low violent crime rates, a strong rule of law, and reliable and efficient emergency services and health care system, residents enjoy peace of mind whether strolling through historic Valletta or relaxing in coastal towns.
Family-Oriented and Family-Friendly
Malta is a haven for families. From top-tier international schools and English-speaking education to family-friendly neighbourhoods like Mellieħa and Sliema, the island offers a nurturing environment for children and a vibrant lifestyle for all ages.
High Standard of Living
Malta offers a Mediterranean lifestyle with modern comforts. The cost of living is very competitive when comparing to the U.S. and other EU countries – while still providing access to excellent healthcare, quality housing, and a thriving expat community.
English as an Official Language
English is one of Malta’s two official languages, used in government, education, and business. This makes integration seamless for international residents and simplifies everything from legal processes to daily life.
Vibrant Property Market
Malta boasts a dynamic and resilient real estate sector, making it an attractive destination for property investment. Over the past decade, property prices have shown consistent growth, driven by strong demand, limited land availability, and a steady influx of foreign investors and residents. Prime areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Valletta offer high-end apartments and luxury villas, while quieter towns and villages provide charming alternatives with strong value appreciation.
Under all residency routes, applicants have the option to either rent or purchase a qualifying property. This flexibility allows individuals to tailor their investment based on personal preferences, lifestyle needs, and long-term plans. Whether choosing to rent a stylish apartment in Valletta or invest in a modern villa in Mellieha, Malta offers a wide range of properties to suit every taste.
Whether purchasing or leasing, investors benefit from a stable market with long-term potential and strong rental yields.
Inclusive and LGBTQI+ Friendly Society
Malta has earned global praise for its commitment to LGBTQI+ equality and inclusion. Ranked first in Europe for LGBTQI+ rights by ILGA-Europe since 2015, the country offers one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks protecting sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017, and discrimination protections have been in place for over a decade.
Beyond legislation, Malta fosters a welcoming and respectful environment for LGBTQI+ individuals and families. Pride events are celebrated with strong public and governmental support, and the community is visible and embraced across Maltese society. For High-Net-Worth Individuals seeking a destination that values diversity and human dignity, Malta offers not just tolerance—but genuine acceptance
What Residency Options are available?
Malta offers a suite of residency programs tailored to different profiles:
- Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP): A residency-by-investment route for non-EU nationals, offering permanent residency and visa-free Schengen travel.
- Global Residence Programme (GRP): Designed for non-EU nationals seeking tax-efficient residency with a flat 15% tax on foreign income remitted to Malta.
- Nomad Residence Permit: Ideal for digital entrepreneurs and remote workers, allowing them to live in Malta while working for overseas clients.
- Highly Qualified Persons Rules (HQP): Offers a 15% tax rate for professionals in finance, aviation, and gaming sectors.
- The Residence Programme (TRP): For EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, offering favorable tax treatment with a flat 15% tax on foreign income remitted to Malta and the right to reside in Malta.
- Malta EU Residence Permit (Right of Freedom of Movement): Designed for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who wish to establish themselves in Malta and enjoy favourable tax rates.
Competitive Edge in the EU
Compared to other EU countries, Malta offers a cost-effective unique blend of tax efficiency, lifestyle, and accessibility. Its residency programs are streamlined, transparent, and supported by a robust legal framework—making it a standout choice for discerning investors.
Malta offers a unique blend of accessibility, lifestyle, and legal certainty that sets it apart from other EU residency destinations. One of the standout features of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is that permanent residency status is truly permanent—it is not revoked after a set number of years, provided the applicant continues to meet the program’s requirements. Importantly, children included in the application retain their residency status even after they marry or commence their employment, offering families long-term peace of mind and continuity across generations. This level of security is rare among EU residency programs and showcases Malta’s commitment to family unity.
Another key advantage is the flexibility to either rent or purchase a qualifying property. Applicants are not obligated to buy real estate, which lowers the entry threshold and allows for greater personal and financial flexibility. Whether leasing a stylish apartment or investing in a classy villa, the residency options accommodate a range of preferences and investment strategies.
Furthermore, in accordance with the latest MPRP programme updates, Malta PR applicants may also apply for a temporary residence card, which grants them immediate access to the Schengen Area, while their Malta PR application is being processed.
How We Can Help
We are a multi-service law firm with extensive expertise in immigration, corporate law, and private client advisory. Our holistic approach ensures that High-Net-Worth Individuals receive tailored, end-to-end support when establishing residency in Malta. Our services include:
- Personalized consultation to identify the most suitable residency route
- Legal and tax advisory through licensed professionals
- Assistance with property acquisition or leasing
- Application preparation and submission
- Ongoing support post-residency, including relocation services and compliance guidance
- Corporate structuring and company formation services for business interests in Malta or the EU
- Succession planning, wealth structuring, and family governance solutions for long-term security and legacy
In a significant ruling delivered on 29 April 2025, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) provided guidance on Malta’s citizenship by investment regulations, concluding proceedings initiated by the European Commission regarding the legislation which was introduced in 2020.
The Court reiterated that while Member States retain sovereignty in setting their own nationality laws, that competence must be exercised in a manner that respects EU law. The ruling focused on Article 20 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which defines Union citizenship, and Article 4(3) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), which outlines the principle of sincere cooperation between the EU and its Member States.
Key Legal Arguments
The European Commission’s main contention was that Malta’s laws, which grant nationality in exchange for predetermined investments, could impact the integrity of Union citizenship by not requiring a genuine connection between the applicant and the State. The Commission argued that this approach could affect mutual trust among Member States and the essence of EU citizenship.
In response, Malta defended its framework, stressing that nationality matters fall squarely within national sovereignty, a principle protected under Article 4(2) TEU. The Maltese government pointed out that its programme is not automatic but discretionary, subject to stringent due diligence and compliance procedures.
The Court’s Deliberations and Judgment
The Court reaffirmed that while Member States enjoy wide discretion over nationality matters, they must exercise this power with due regard for EU law, both when granting and withdrawing citizenship. Referencing established case law (Michelletti, Rottmann), the Court stressed that nationality must be underpinned by a “special relationship of solidarity and good faith” between the State and the individual.
The judgment confirmed that naturalisation procedures which are transactional in nature, hence where nationality is granted in exchange for predetermined payments or investments may not align fully with the principles of sincere cooperation and mutual trust that underpin EU citizenship, in the absence of genuine connections.
The Court concluded:
“By establishing and operating an institutionalised citizenship investment scheme, which implements a transactional naturalisation procedure in exchange for predetermined payments or investments and thereby amounts to the commercialisation of the grant of the nationality of a Member State and, by extension, that of Union citizenship, the Republic of Malta has not fully complied with its obligations under Article 20 TFEU and Article 4(3) TEU.”
Malta’s Official Response
Following the judgment, the Government of Malta issued a formal press release (PR250702), confirming its full respect for the Court’s decision. The government stated that it is currently studying the legal implications of the ruling to ensure that the legislative framework is aligned with the principles outlined by the Court.
The government highlighted that it has consistently maintained that nationality falls within the exclusive competence of Member States, a position it has defended robustly since the start of proceedings in 2020. This stance was supported by the Advocate General’s opinion of 4 October 2024, which concluded there was no case against Malta.
While acknowledging the judgment, Malta pointed out that the Court reaffirmed the principle of national competence over citizenship matters. The government also clarified that all citizenships granted under both the current and previous frameworks remain valid and fully recognised.
The Maltese authorities took the opportunity to emphasise the positive economic impact of the programme, which has contributed significantly to a national investment and savings fund designed to benefit both present and future generations.
Next Steps
The Government of Malta has confirmed that it is currently analysing the judgment in detail and will be amending the citizenship regulations to ensure alignment with the principles outlined by the Court. We will keep you updated with further developments as they unfold.
Licence number: AKM-ACCA
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has set 29th April 2025 as the date for its long-awaited ruling in Case C-181/23, the infringement proceedings brought by the European Commission against the Republic of Malta over its Citizenship regulations.
This ruling will mark the culmination of a legal process that began in October 2020, with formal proceedings launched in March 2023. At the heart of the dispute is Malta’s Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations, a framework that allows up to 1,500 individuals (with a cap of 400 main applicants annually) to acquire Maltese citizenship through investment.
Background to the Case
The European Commission alleges that Malta is in breach of Article 20 and Article 4(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). According to the Commission, citizenship should only be conferred upon individuals who have a real and meaningful connection to Malta.
Malta, in response, maintains that the decision to grant citizenship is a matter of national sovereignty. Moreover, Malta emphasises that its citizenship framework incorporates a mandatory residence requirement of either 36 or 12 months before submitting a citizenship application, mandatory requirement to establish connections with the Island, along with a rigorous due diligence process designed to ensure applicants are reputable and of good standing.
Advocate General’s Opinion
On the 4th of October 2024, Advocate General Collins issued his opinion on the case, recommending that the Court dismiss the Commission’s action and that the Commission bear its own costs and those of Malta.
Quoting from his opinion, Collins stated:
“Member States have decided that it is for each of them alone to determine who is entitled to be one of their nationals and, as a consequence, who is an EU citizen.”
While Advocate General opinions carry significant weight, they are not binding on the Court and the final decision rests solely with the CJEU
Judgement Date
The CJEU’s decision on 29 April 2025 is expected to bring legal clarity and a final decision by the Court of Justice on Malta’s citizenship by investment regulations.
Our Maltese Citizenship by Investment Services
We offer the following services in relationship to Malta Citizenship by Investment:
- advising you on your eligibility and your chances of success before filing your application;
- guiding you with the preparation and forwarding of the necessary documentation;
- vetting and preparing all supporting documentation for submission;
Applications for Maltese Citizenship by Investment are to be made to and processed wholly by Agenzija Komunita Malta. Dr Priscilla Mifsud Parker is a Licensed Agent, holding licence AKM-ACCA.
Are you an American citizen dreaming of a second passport that offers visa-free travel to over 190 countries, the right to live and work across Europe, and a gateway to new financial and lifestyle possibilities, all without surrendering your American citizenship? Malta, a Mediterranean gem and EU member state, offers one of the most appealing dual citizenship options for Americans. Whether through investment or ancestry U.S. nationals have several routes to securing Maltese citizenship.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to obtain Maltese citizenship, the key legal details you need to know, and the main benefits.
What Does Dual Citizenship Mean for U.S. Citizens?
Dual citizenship allows you to hold citizenship in two countries simultaneously—in this case, the United States and Malta. Malta fully permits dual citizenship, making it an attractive choice for Americans seeking enhanced global mobility and EU access while retaining their U.S. passport. The U.S. government neither actively encourages nor prohibits dual citizenship, hence one can retain both the US and Maltese passports at the same time.
Why Choose Maltese Citizenship? The Benefits for Americans
Maltese citizenship isn’t just a second passport—it’s a key to a better-connected, more secure, and enriched life. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for U.S. nationals:
Unmatched Global Mobility
A Maltese passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 destinations, including:
- All EU and Schengen Area countries
- The UK, Canada, China, Australia, Japan, and more
This eliminates the hassle of visa applications, streamlining travel for business, leisure, or spontaneous getaways.
Full Access to the EU
As an EU citizen, you can:
- Live, work, or start a business in any of the 27 EU countries, plus Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
- Study at top European universities at local tuition rates.
A Mediterranean Lifestyle
Malta offers more than just a passport—it’s a vibrant place to live or visit:
- Warm climate, stunning coastlines, and a rich history dating back millennia.
- An English-speaking population (English is an official language), easing the transition for Americans.
- Top-tier healthcare and education, low crime rates, and political stability.
A Welcoming Haven for All
Malta ranks among the world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly nations, consistently topping the ILGA Rainbow Europe Index. It offers:
- Robust anti-discrimination laws and marriage equality.
- A safe, inclusive environment for individuals and families of all backgrounds.
You can read more on Malta as a gay-friendly gateaway here.
How to apply for dual citizenship Malta
There are two main pathways for Americans to secure Maltese citizenship. Each has unique requirements, timelines, and benefits—here’s how they work:
Citizenship by Investment through the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services Regulations
Malta’s citizenship-by-investment program is ideal for high-net-worth individuals contributing to the nation’s growth.
There are three main requirements:
- Financial Contribution:
- €750,000 for citizenship after 12 months of residency, or €600,000 after 36 months.
- An additional €50,000 per dependent (spouse, children, or parents).
- Real Estate:
- Purchase property worth €700,000+ (held for 5 years), or
- Rent a property for €16,000+ annually (held for 5 years).
- Charity Donation: €10,000 to a registered Maltese voluntary organisation.
Citizenship by Descent
For those who can prove that they have two generations of ascendants born in Malta, they might qualify for citizenship through descent.
Is Maltese Citizenship Right for You?
For U.S. nationals, Maltese citizenship opens doors to a world of possibilities—unparalleled mobility, enhanced security, and access to EU opportunities. Whether you’re a global investor, an entrepreneur expanding into Europe, or someone seeking a second home in a dynamic and welcoming country, Malta offers a compelling choice.
Take the Next Step with ACC Advisors (Licence AKM-ACCA)
Navigating the path to dual citizenship requires expert guidance, and that’s where ACC Advisors comes in. With our extensive experience in Maltese immigration law and investment migration, we assist U.S. nationals in securing Maltese citizenship through the most suitable route.
Whether you’re considering citizenship by investment, descent, marriage, or naturalization, our team provides tailored advice and a seamless application process. Contact ACC Advisors (Licence AKM-ACCA) today for a confidential consultation and discover how Maltese citizenship can unlock a world of new opportunities.