1) MALTA - CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT (MCES)
Update: 15th May, the world is rapidly closing its borders
On May 1, 2025, the EU announced plans to close the last bastion of hope for gaining citizenship in the EU. The EU wants to close citizenship by donation in Malta. All other EU countries have already closed their citizenship by investment programs.
The situation now is the EU have asked our legal partners in Malta for suggestions on how the new directive should be administered. For now, Malta’s citizenship by Donation programs remains open. We expect applications filed before the new directive is implemented, to be grandfathered – meaning, honoured.
We therefore advise everyone wishing to obtain an EU country citizenship and passport to contact us and begin their application process without delay.
1) MALTA – CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT (MCES)
Malta is now the only EU country providing a Citizenship by Direct Investment Programme whereby the applicants receive a European passport.
The Maltese programme requires the applicants to be residents of Malta for 1 year or 3 years, depending on the chosen route. During this residency period, the applicants are required to spend some time in Malta and set up a genuine connection with the island.
Achieving citizenship and passports for you and your family is a difficult and expensive process, but ultimately successful. The citizenship comes via a substantial donation to Malta’s government. The donation is only made once you know your application will be successful.
| Requirement | Option 1: 1-year Residency | Option 2: 3-year Residency |
|---|---|---|
| Government Contribution – Main Applicant | €750,000 | €600,000 |
| Property Commitment | Purchase: €700,000+ (held for 5 years) or Rent: €16,000/year (5-year lease) | Same as 1-year Option |
| Philanthropic Donation | €10,000 to an approved Maltese NGO | Same as 1-year Option |
| Additional Contribution per Dependent | €50,000 | Same as 1-year Option |
Notes:
- The 1-year residency option requires a higher government contribution but offers a faster route to citizenship.
- The 3-year residency option requires a lower government contribution but entails a longer 3-year residency period before eligibility for citizenship.
- Both options require either purchasing or renting a qualifying property in Malta and making a philanthropic donation.
- An additional contribution is required for each dependent included in the application.
Benefits:
- Maltese Citizenship & Passport providing Visa-free travel to over 190 countries including USA, Canada, UK & EU.
- Citizenship can be passed down to future generations.
- Right to settle, study, work, invest, retire in all 29 European Union countries.
- Malta allows dual and multiple citizenship.
2) Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP)
The Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP) is a government-backed initiative allowing non-EU nationals and their families to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Malta.
There are three main requirements, which all need to be fulfilled in order to acquire permanent residence in Malta:
- Pay a one-time application fee to the Government of €110,000 when renting a property or €80,000 if purchasing a property. An additional government fee of €10,000 applies for each additional dependant , and
- Rent a property in Malta for €14,000 per year OR purchase a property for €375,000. The property is to be kept for a period of 5 years and
- Pay a donation of €2,000 to a local registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare or artistic NGO.
In addition, the applicant needs to declare and provide evidence that they are in possession of assets having a value of not less than €500,000 out of which a minimum of €150,000 shall be in the form of financial assets.
Alternatively, the applicant may declare that they are in possession of not less than €650,000 out of which a minimum of €75,000 shall be in the form of financial assets.
The main benefits of obtaining residency under the MPRP include:
- Residency for life, for all the family
- All the family can apply together in one application.
- Addition of unmarried and financially dependent children up to the age of 28.
- Addition of financially dependent parents and grandparents
- Children obtaining Malta PR with the main applicant, will not lose their PR status if they get married or start employment after they obtain PR
- Children obtaining Malta PR with the main applicant, can also obtain PR status for their future spouse and children
- Permanent Residence effective on approval
- Visa Free Travel in the Schengen Area
- No minimum physical stay in Malta or language test required
- Investment is only required after approval
WHY PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING MALTA
Malta isn’t just an investment hub—it’s a fantastic place to live. Whether you’re seeking a thriving business environment, stunning Mediterranean lifestyle, or rich cultural experiences, Malta has it all.
A Business-Friendly Investment Hub
- Only EU Country Offering Citizenship by Direct Investment, providing visa-free access to 180+ countries, including the Schengen Zone & UK.
- Booming economy with low corporate tax rates (effective tax as low as 5%) and a pro-business environment.
- No wealth, inheritance, or annual property tax, making it an attractive destination for high-net-worth individuals.
- Strategic location between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, ideal for global business expansion.
Strong real estate market with high rental yields and increasing property values, making it a smart long-term investment.
Mediterranean Lifestyle & Quality of Life
- Over 300 sunny days a year, with some of the best beaches and crystal-clear waters in Europe.
- Fantastic Mediterranean cuisine, blending Italian, Arabic, and British influences—must-try dishes include pastizzi and fresh seafood.
- A vibrant cultural scene, from traditional village feasts to jazz, arts, and film festivals.
- Island-hopping paradise, with quick ferry rides to Gozo & Comino and plenty of yachting opportunities.
- Rich history with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Valletta and the ancient temples older than the pyramids!
Safe, Welcoming & Easy to Settle In
- English is an official language, making it easy to live, work, and do business.
- One of the safest countries in Europe, with a friendly and welcoming community.
- Excellent international schools and a high-quality healthcare system.
- Great connectivity with direct flights to major European, Middle Eastern, and North African cities.
Never a Dull Moment
- World-class diving & watersports, from exploring sunken WWII wrecks to snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon.
- A lively nightlife and entertainment scene, from beach clubs to historic wine cellars.
- Home to major international events, including the Rolex Middle Sea Race, Malta Jazz Festival, and Isle of MTV.
- A global gaming hub, with a booming iGaming and fintech sector attracting entrepreneurs from all over the world.
Malta is the perfect blend of business opportunity, luxury living, and cultural charm. Whether you’re looking to invest, relocate, or simply enjoy the Mediterranean dream, Malta offers an unmatched quality of life.
MINIMUM REQUIRED INVESTMENT
TOTAL APPLICATIONS 2018-20
MONTHS PROCESSING TIME
SCHENGEN TRAVEL COUNTRIES
VISA FREE TRAVEL TO 26 SHENGEN COUNTRIES
| Austria | Germany | Lithuania | Slovakia |
| Belgium | Greece | Luxembourg | Slovenia |
| Czech Republic | Hungary | Malta | Spain |
| Denmark | Iceland | Netherlands | Sweden |
| Estonia | Italy | Norway | Switzerland |
| Finland | Latvia | Poland | |
| France | Liechtenstein | Portugal |
