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Maltese Citizenship for Investors Made Easy in 2024
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Are you an entrepreneur looking to get a second passport? If so, you may want to consider Malta as your destination. Malta offers a fast and efficient Citizenship by Investment. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a second citizenship.
In this article, we’ll explain the process of obtaining Maltese citizenship for investors. We’ll also cover the benefits of a Maltese passport.
Why Consider Maltese Citizenship?
Visa-Free Travel
One of the main benefits of Malta Citizenship by Investment is it allows you to apply for a Maltese passport. With this, you can enjoy visa-free travel to over 180 countries including the US. A Maltese passport gives investors greater global mobility.
Business Opportunities
Malta is a member of the European Union and has a stable economy. This means it’s an ideal business base. As a Maltese citizen, you will have access to the European market. You can also take advantage of the country’s favourable tax laws.
Quality of Life
You can live the high life in Malta. It has an appealing climate, allowing you to take advantage of its beautiful beaches. As a Maltese citizen, you can live and work in this idyllic Mediterranean country.
The Process of Obtaining Maltese Citizenship for Investors
Eligibility Requirements
Are you eligible for Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalization (MEIN)? You must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have a valid passport
- Be in good health
- Have a high net worth
Investment Options
There are two investment options available for obtaining Malta citizenship:
Option 1: Become a Maltese citizen after one year of Residence
The first option is to obtain Residence in Malta for 12 months and pay €750,000 to the National Development and Social Fund. You must buy residential real estate in Malta worth at least €700,000. The alternative is to rent a residential property in Malta with an annual lease of at least €16,000.
Option 2: Become a Maltese citizen after three years of Residence
The second option is to obtain Residence in Malta for 36 months and pay €600,000 to the National Development and Social Fund. You must buy residential Maltese property worth at least €700,000. Another route is to rent residential real estate in Malta paying at least €16,000 a year.
The Application Process
Take the following steps to complete the application process for Malta citizenship:
Step 1
Onboard with RIF Trust. Once we’ve done our due diligence, we’ll ask you to sign a Client Agreement. Next, our case processing team will complete all necessary forms and collate required documents.
We’ll guide you throughout the entire application journey. As a licensed Residency and Citizenship firm, we’ll communicate directly with the Malta Citizenship Unit, known as Community Malta Agency or, in Maltese, Aġenzija Komunita’ Malta. This is a government-appointed body overseeing citizenship applications.
Step 2
During the second and third months of your application, you must start to show genuine ties to Malta. You do this by either buying or renting a property. This secures residence in the country.
Step 3
The next stage of your application propels you towards citizenship. Your Relationship Manager will prepare your application forms and arrange all the necessary appointments to certify the required documents.
Step 4
This is when you receive the Approval in Principle from the Community Malta Agency. You must transfer the remaining balance of what you owe to the National Development and Social Fund. Also, you need to donate €10,000 to an approved charity.
Step 5
You will receive an invitation letter to swear the Oath of Allegiance. Both you and your dependants over 18 must do this to obtain a Certificate of Naturalization. After this, you qualify to apply for a Maltese passport.
Benefits of a Maltese Passport for Investors
Visa-Free Travel
As earlier mentioned, a Maltese passport ensures visa-free travel to over 180 countries. Non-European citizens can spend 90 out of 180 days in the Schengen Zone without a visa. As Malta is in the EU, there are no such restrictions for Maltese citizens.
EU Citizenship
Malta is a European Union member. As a Maltese citizen, you will have the right to live, work, and study in any EU country.
Tax Benefits
Malta has a favourable tax system, particularly for individuals who are not domiciled in Malta. This can help investors looking to reduce their tax burden.
Dual Citizenship
Malta allows dual citizenship. That means you will not have to renounce your previous citizenship, unless your country doesn’t permit dual citizenship. You should be able to hold a Maltese passport alongside a passport of your own country.
Educational Opportunities
Your dependants can study in local schools and universities for free. In other EU countries, they qualify for reduced tuition fees.
Quality Healthcare
Maltese citizens are eligible to access free treatment in state hospitals.
Business Perks
As a Maltese national, you can start a business in the country or other EU member states. This enables your company to grow globally.
Maltese Citizenship for Investors: What’s Next?
Now you’ve read our Maltese citizenship masterclass, where do you go from here? If you want to proceed with an application, we’re here to help.
Don’t delay. Contact RIF Trust, your MEIN experts, today.