MALTA - CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT (MCES)
30th April 2025: At 9:30 CET yesterday, the Court of Justice of the European Union, ruled that Malta’s citizenship by investment laws should meet the genuine links requirement applicable under EU law (in disagreement with the influential Advocate General’s opinion directing the European Court that Malta was already fully compliant with EU law). Meanwhile the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) is unaffected.
By the end of next week, we should have more information.
Please contact us if you require more clarification.
Malta Citizenship by Direct Investment provides EU citizenship & Schengen visa free travel.
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.
Total approximate investment for main applicant + 3 dependents to obtain Malta/EU Passports in 1 year with a total minimum stay of 30 days, is a non-refundable contribution of €990,000. Includes the government contribution, charity donation and property rental. There is a slightly less expensive 3-year option requiring 3 x 30 day stays.
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.
Maltese Citizenship by Direct Investment (MCES) – Key Requirements
| 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.
WHY INVESTORS 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
BENEFITS AND COST OF MCES
- 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 27 European Union countries.
- Malta allows dual and multiple citizenship.
Total estimated cost for the 1-Year MCES program to gain Maltese citizenship & passport for a family of 4. The minimum stay requirement is 30 days in total:
One time donation government contribution: €750,000
Total dependants – one time donation: €50,000 x 3 = €150,000
5 years of minimum rental charge: €16,000 x 5 = €80,000
A one-time charitable donation eligible philanthropic organisation of your choice: €10,000
Total = €990,000
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 |
