Eligibility for Maltese Citizenship by Merit

What are the requirements to qualify for Maltese Citizenship by Merit? This article explains the rules on eligibility for Malta Citizenship through Merit. Find out if you are eligible to apply for the Maltese Citizenship by Merit.

Malta Citizenship Eligibility

The Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188) provides several lawful paths through which a person may acquire citizenship of Malta — by birth, descent, marriage, naturalisation, or by merit in recognition of exceptional service.
Under the Maltese Citizenship by Merit Regulations (2025), the granting of citizenship is no longer linked to investment but to meaningful, verifiable contributions that align with Malta’s national priorities, philanthropy, innovation, or humanitarian service.

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Eligibility under the Citizenship by Merit Framework

To be eligible for Maltese Citizenship by Merit, an applicant must first obtain residence status in Malta and demonstrate a sustained personal or professional commitment of exceptional value to the Republic of Malta.
Applicants are assessed on their tangible contributions — whether through philanthropic, cultural, scientific, or economic initiatives that enhance Malta’s development or its global standing.

Eligibility is open to individuals who:

• Are of good character and have passed comprehensive due diligence and source-of-wealth verification.
• Have maintained lawful residence in Malta for a qualifying period as determined by the Community Malta Agency.
• Have demonstrated exceptional merit, innovation, or service benefiting Malta, Maltese society, or humanity at large.
• Have established genuine links with Malta through residence, engagement, and participation in Maltese life.
• Are in good health and not likely to become a burden on Malta’s public health system.
• Are at least 18 years of age.

Forms of Recognised Contribution

Applicants under the Citizenship by Merit Regulations may be recognised for contributions in one or more of the following areas:

• Philanthropy: Substantial and sustained support of registered Maltese charitable, educational, cultural, or social initiatives.
• Innovation and Technology: Advancement of strategic industries such as sustainability, digital innovation, or healthcare.
• Academic and Scientific Achievement: Significant contributions to research or higher education benefiting Malta.
• Cultural and Artistic Merit: Promotion of Maltese culture, heritage, and international cultural exchange.
• Humanitarian and Global Service: Distinguished service to humanitarian causes or peacebuilding efforts.

Family Eligibility

Applications may include immediate family members who form part of the applicant’s household, subject to independent due diligence and eligibility assessment. Eligible dependants generally include:

• The spouse or recognised partner of the main applicant;
• Minor children under 18 years of age;
• Unmarried adult children under 29 who are financially dependent;
• Parents or grandparents of the main applicant or spouse who are financially dependent.

Due Diligence and Suitability Assessment

The Community Malta Agency (CMA) applies a multi-tiered due diligence process, supported by international verification partners, to ensure that only reputable and deserving applicants are considered. Each case is examined on merit, taking into account the applicant’s integrity, reputation, and contribution to the public good.

Applicants are ineligible if they:

• Have criminal convictions or are under investigation for serious offences;
• Are listed on international sanctions or watchlists;
• Pose a risk to Malta’s national security, public policy, or public health;
• Have been involved in activities likely to bring disrepute to the Republic of Malta.

Residency Requirement

Applicants must first be granted residence in Malta and maintain this status for the period determined by the Community Malta Agency. During this time, the applicant must demonstrate genuine integration and ongoing engagement in Malta’s social or economic life.

Our Citizenship Advisory Services

All applications under the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188) must be submitted through a licensed agent authorised by the Community Malta Agency.

Managing Partner of licensed citizenship agent ACC Advisors Ltd, Dr Mifsud Parker is a member of the Malta Chamber of Advocates, the Society of Trust & Estates Practitioners (STEP) and is an accredited Malta Citizenship Agent by Agenzija Komunita Malta holding licence AKM-ACCA.

ACC Advisors Ltd, our licensed citizenship agent, is the specialised Maltese citizenship agent of Chetcuti Cauchi Advocates, together providing end-to-end assistance throughout the residence and citizenship process – from eligibility assessment and documentation to liaising with Maltese authorities.
Together, we deliver a trusted, fully compliant service model that unites legal expertise, due diligence, and professional integrity.

ACC’s team of Malta Citizenship lawyers has 25+ years of experience in Malta citizenship law, immigration, taxation, trusts and estates and property law.

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