Malta only grants citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. This option is available to Americans who want a second passport. Maltese citizenship grants visa-free travel to the EU countries.
Julia Loko, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains the Citizenship program in Malta for exceptional services by direct investment.
What is Malta second citizenship for Americans
Citizenship. Malta only grants citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. This process requires a financial contribution, residency, and Due Diligence checks. Successful applicants receive a Maltese passport, granting full EU rights.
Legal framework. The program follows the Maltese Citizenship Act and Legal Notice 437 of 2020. Applicants must meet strict Due Diligence and investment requirements to qualify when moving to Malta from the US .
Processing time. The full process takes between 12 and 36 months, depending on the chosen investment route. This includes time for residency, Due Diligence checks, and citizenship application processing.
5 benefits of Malta citizenship for US citizens
- Increased mobility. Maltese citizens have visa-free access to over 160 countries, including the UK and Schengen Zone.
- Business opportunities. Malta has a stable economy and access to European markets. Citizenship allows investors to expand business operations across the EU.
- Dual citizenship. The US allows dual citizenship, so Americans can hold both passports. There is no requirement to renounce US nationality.
- Quality of life. Malta offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare, education, and safety. The Mediterranean climate and English-speaking environment make it attractive to expats.
- Generational benefits. Citizenship is passed down to future generations, allowing family members to enjoy the same benefits without additional investment.
Requirements for Malta citizenship for US citizens
Residency period. Applicants must maintain residence in Malta for 12 or 36 months, depending on their investment amount.
Investment requirements. Applicants must pass strict Due Diligence checks, contribute to the National Development and Social Fund, invest in real estate or government bonds, and reside in Malta for at least one year:
- Contribution to the National Development and Social Fund. Applicants must make a non-refundable contribution to Malta’s National Development and Social Fund. The required amount starts at €600,000 for a minimum 36-month residency, or €750,000 for a reduced 12-month residency period.
- Investment in Property. Applicants are required to invest in property, either by purchasing a property valued at a minimum of €700,000 or renting a property with a minimum annual rental cost of €16,000.
- Investment in Government Bonds. Applicants must invest in government bonds or stocks, which must be held for a period of five years.
Due Diligence. The Maltese government conducts a four-tier background check to ensure applicants meet ethical and financial standards.
Family eligibility. Spouses, dependent children, and parents over 55 can be included in the application. Each additional applicant requires a separate investment contribution.
How to get Maltese citizenship for Americans
Step 1. Obtain Maltese residence. The applicant must apply for a residence permit and reside in Malta during the qualifying period.
Step 2. Pass Due Diligence. The government assesses the applicant’s background, finances, and source of funds. Approval is granted if all checks are passed.
Step 3. Make the investment. The applicant must complete the required financial contribution, real estate transaction, and donation.
Step 4. Submit citizenship application. After fulfilling the residency and investment conditions, the applicant submits the citizenship application for final approval.
Step 5. Take the oath of allegiance. Once approved, the applicant takes the oath and receives a Maltese passport.
Step 6. Renew the passport. The Maltese passport must be renewed every 10 years. Citizens must ensure compliance with residency and legal requirements.
Conclusion
The process involves residency, financial contributions, and Due Diligence. The benefits include EU mobility and business opportunities. Citizenship extends to future generations, ensuring long-term benefits. To start the process, contact Immigrant Invest for a consultation.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
