Maltese citizenship by merit: An overview of the legal framework

Compliance Notice: The following information is provided for educational purposes regarding the legal provisions of S.L. 188.06. Citizenship by merit in Malta is a discretionary process and does not constitute a citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. Assessment is conducted on a case-by-case basis by the Community Malta Agency.

Before the 2025 reform, Maltese law allowed naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. After the Court of Justice of the EU ruling on April 29th, 2025, and subsequent amendments, this route was discontinued and is no longer available to new applicants.

Citizenship is now granted only through established legal pathways, including discretionary naturalisation by merit. This is not a continuation or variation of the former investment route, but a separate procedure where the Community Malta Agency assesses exceptional merit or contribution on a case-by-case basis.

Legal basis of naturalisation by merit

Malta citizenship by merit is a discretionary legislative framework governed by Subsidiary Legislation 188.06. Under this provision, Maltese citizenship may be granted to individuals who demonstrate exceptional merit or have rendered exceptional services to Malta.

Interpretation of merit in law

The concept of ‘exceptional merit’ is not defined through fixed criteria or numerical thresholds. Instead, authorities assess each case in context, considering the nature, scale, and relevance of the individual’s contribution to Malta to determine whether it reaches the level required under the law.

Scope of application

The framework of naturalisation by merit applies to individuals whose activities, achievements, or contributions may be considered of particular relevance to Malta.

In practice, this may include persons with recognised accomplishments in fields such as business, science, technology, culture, or other areas where their work has a measurable impact. It may also be relevant where an individual is involved in initiatives aligned with Malta’s national priorities.

Application of the legal framework

The assessment is conducted through a formal review procedure managed by the Community Malta Agency. This includes the examination of submitted documentation, Due Diligence checks, and an evaluation of how the case aligns with the legal framework.

The Agency applies the law to the specific facts of each case and forms a recommendation based on its findings. The process is not standardised in outcome, as the outcome is determined based on the overall assessment of the case.

Criteria for assessment

Requests for naturalisation by merit are assessed strictly on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Community Malta Agency. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional merit in line with statutory provisions.

Areas considered in the assessment of merit

Several broad areas are typically considered when evaluating merit, including:

• contributions to economic development or innovation;

• achievements in science, technology, arts, or culture;
• activities that enhance Malta’s international reputation;

• initiatives that create long-term value for society.

These areas serve as guidance rather than strict requirements. The key point is that merit must be both significant and relevant to Malta.

Documentary basis for the assessment

Any request for assessment must be supported by clear and verifiable documentation. This helps the authorities understand the nature and scale of the applicant’s contribution.

Typical documentation may include:

• records of professional achievements or leadership roles;

• evidence of projects or initiatives linked to Malta;
• references or endorsements from recognised institutions;

• documentation confirming identity, background, and compliance,

The quality of evidence matters more than the quantity. Authorities focus on whether the documentation demonstrates real impact rather than general claims.

Due Diligence and compliance checks

Due Diligence is a central element of the assessment. It ensures that applicants meet the standards expected under Maltese law.

This review typically covers:

• verification of identity and personal history;

• review of professional and financial background;
• checks against international compliance databases;

• assessment of reputational risks.

The purpose is to confirm that the applicant’s profile aligns with Malta’s legal and regulatory standards. This step is not unique to Malta and is common in citizenship processes worldwide.

Duration of the process

The duration of the assessment process depends on the administrative requirements of the Agency and the specifics of each case. More complex backgrounds or the need for additional verification may extend the review, while clear and complete documentation can support a more streamlined assessment.

There is no fixed timeframe, as the process is determined by legal and administrative considerations rather than predefined deadlines.

Standard naturalisation in Malta

While naturalisation by merit is a distinct legal framework, Maltese law also provides other pathways to citizenship. One of these is standard naturalisation, governed by the Maltese Citizenship Act and based on lawful residence and integration over time. It allows individuals to be considered for citizenship after establishing a sustained connection with the country.

Applicants are expected to reside lawfully in Malta for several years, including a continuous period immediately before submitting a request. In practice, this often involves a minimum of 5 years of residence, although each case is assessed individually. The authorities consider not only the duration of residence but also its legality and consistency.

Applicants are also required to demonstrate good character. This involves background checks and a review of personal history to ensure compliance with Maltese legal and regulatory standards.

Another key element is the applicant’s connection to Malta. Authorities may consider factors such as social ties, participation in daily life, and the extent to which the individual has integrated into the local environment.

Even where these elements are present, naturalisation is not granted automatically. Each case is examined on its own merits, and the final decision remains at the discretion of the competent authorities, based on the overall profile of the applicant.

Conclusion

Naturalisation by merit under Subsidiary Legislation 188.06 provides a legal basis for granting Maltese citizenship where an individual’s contribution is considered significant in the context of national interest. Standard naturalisation, in turn, follows a different legal basis and relies on lawful residence and integration over time.

Both pathways form part of the Maltese citizenship framework and are administered by the competent authorities in accordance with applicable legislation.

For further clarification of the legal framework or assistance in preparing a request, professional guidance may be sought. You can contact Immigrant Invest for additional information.