How to obtain Maltese citizenship: legal pathways in 2026
A Maltese passport can offer many advantages to its holders, such as high quality of life, convenient business conditions, and an opportunity to travel visa-free to more than 180 countries.
Naturalisation is one of the ways to obtain a passport. In this article, we gathered detailed information on the conditions and terms of obtaining Malta citizenship by naturalisation. It’s no surprise that Maltese citizenship has sparked a lot of interest. There are a variety of legal programs available, including standard naturalization after residing in the country for 5 years with a residence permit, as well as accelerated processing through descent, marriage, or exceptional merit. Following the 2025 reforms, the previously popular «golden passport» program was discontinued, but the main paths to obtaining Maltese citizenship remain available.
Conditions for obtaining Malta citizenship by naturalisation
Benefits of Holding a Maltese Passport
According to the Maltese legislation, a foreigner can apply for citizenship by naturalisation if they fit several requirements:
age of 18 years or older;
have lived in Malta for 12 months continuously before applying;
have lived in Malta for 4 years out of 6 last years before the 12 months;
are a law-abiding member of society with no criminal prosecutions or convictions – and will remain so as a citizen of Malta;
have own or rented housing in Malta;
have adequate knowledge of English or Maltese; this requirement doesn’t apply to persons who are out of age but are not fully capable and on behalf of whom the application is being made.
A parent or parents who were not Maltese citizens at the time of their child’s birth and then acquired passports can apply for Malta citizenship on behalf of their minor children. And if a person is already naturalised, their newborns get Malta citizenship by birth.
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Advantages of Maltese citizenship
A Maltese passport provides its holder with the full range of EU citizen rights, simplifying employment, education, travel, and future planning:
The right to live and work in any EU country. You can move freely to any EU country, work without a permit, start a business, and access healthcare and social benefits on the same terms as local residents. For example, tuition fees are typically discounted. This is one of the main reasons for obtaining a Maltese passport.
Visa-free travel to over 170 countries. As of 2025, a Maltese passport will permit visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry into 172 countries worldwide, including those in the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, China, and Japan. These benefits simplify business travel, tourism, and regular flights.
Strong economy. Malta has a stable and developed economy (with a credit rating of A+ according to Fitch Ratings). It ranks among the top 9 European countries in terms of GDP per capita. This has a positive impact on business, the labor market (unemployment is only 3%), and the overall well-being of the population.
High quality of life. The average salary in Malta is EUR 1,555, which is higher than in Estonia, the Czech Republic, and Portugal. People also move here for the warm, Mediterranean climate, which features mild winters and 300 days of sunshine per year. The local population speaks English, which makes it easier to adapt.
State protection. Citizens have access to social assistance and consular protection while traveling abroad. If there is no Maltese representation in your country, you can also contact the consulates of other EU countries. Citizens cannot be deprived of their right to reside in Malta or be deported. This is an especially relevant advantage now, when many are facing restrictions due to political instability in their home countries.
Easy access to business and finance. With a Maltese passport, it is easier to open bank accounts, register businesses, and purchase real estate in the EU. Foreigners usually need a residence permit for these activities.
Citizenship for family and children. After obtaining Maltese citizenship, you can apply for it for your minor children. If a child is born after naturalization, they will automatically become Maltese citizens. Other family members can immigrate through family reunification and obtain citizenship after 5 years of residence. Maltese citizenship provides children and future generations with continued access to the rights of EU citizens, including the freedom to reside, study, and work.
Dual citizenship. Malta does not require you to renounce your first citizenship. When traveling, you can use whichever passport best suits your needs. This is also convenient for businesspeople who conduct business in different countries and want to maintain their rights and ties to their homeland.
How to obtain Maltese citizenship