An EU citizenship and passport through a demanding but prestigious programme — offering unrestricted access to all 27 EU member states and world-class global mobility.
Programme Overview
Malta's Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN) is one of only a handful of programmes globally that leads to full EU citizenship through investment. Administered by Identità, the programme grants Maltese nationality — and with it, an EU passport — to qualifying individuals who make a substantial economic contribution to the country.
The programme requires a combination of a qualifying direct investment, a property contribution (purchase or rental), and a donation to the Malta Community Chest Fund. There is also a mandatory residency period of either one or three years prior to citizenship being granted.
This is not a fast-track or low-barrier programme. It is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals who can demonstrate genuine commitment to Malta. The due diligence process is comprehensive and thorough.
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Free Eligibility AssessmentWhy Choose This Programme
Maltese citizenship grants the right to live, work, study, and retire anywhere in the European Union — access to 27 member states without restriction.
The Maltese passport consistently ranks among the world's strongest, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180+ countries including the USA, Canada, UK, and Schengen area.
Spouse, dependent children (including those up to 29 if financially dependent and single), and dependent parents or grandparents can all be included.
Malta allows its citizens to hold multiple citizenships. Applicants typically do not need to renounce their existing nationality.
The MEIN programme operates under strict EU-compliant regulations with multi-tier due diligence, providing a high degree of legal certainty and international acceptance.
Malta offers a warm climate, English as an official language, a low crime rate, and a well-developed financial services and business sector.
How to Qualify
Important: Investment thresholds, qualifying routes, and programme conditions are subject to change by the relevant government authority without notice. Figures shown are approximate guidance only. Please contact us to verify the most current requirements before making any decisions.
After three years of qualifying Maltese residency, applicants may apply for citizenship. The lower investment threshold applies to this route.
Plus property and donation requirements below
A faster route requiring only one year of qualifying Maltese residency before the citizenship application. The higher investment threshold reflects the shorter timeline.
Plus property and donation requirements below
Applicants must purchase property worth at least €700,000 (held for 5 years) or rent qualifying property at a minimum of €16,000 annually for 5 years.
✓ Potentially refundableProperty can be sold/vacated after 5-year holding period
Before You Apply
Non-EU national aged 18 or over; must not be a Maltese citizen at time of application
Clean criminal record — multi-tier due diligence is conducted by Identità
No PEP (Politically Exposed Person) issues that would prevent approval
Genuinely sourced and documented investment funds
Physical presence in Malta for the qualifying residency period
No previous refusal of EU visas unless resolved
Approved by a licensed Registered Mandatory Agent (required by law)
Our Advisory Pathway
Maltese law requires all MEIN applicants to use a licensed Registered Mandatory Agent (RMA). We advise on this requirement and help you engage the appropriate regulated professional.
You must establish qualifying Maltese residency and obtain a Maltese residence card. We guide you through this stage alongside your legal advisor.
We assist in compiling the extensive documentation package required for the MEIN application including source of wealth, financial standing, and family documents.
The application is submitted through your Registered Mandatory Agent. Identità conducts a thorough due diligence process before citizenship is approved.
Preparation
Document requirements vary by programme and individual circumstances. This list is indicative — we provide a tailored checklist after your initial consultation.
Common Questions
The programme operates under annual quota limits set by the Maltese government. Please contact us for current availability and processing status.
You must establish qualifying residency (1 or 3 years depending on route) and maintain property there for 5 years. After citizenship is granted, you are not required to live in Malta.
Yes. Maltese law mandates that all MEIN applicants be represented by a licensed RMA. We can advise on how to identify and engage the appropriate professional.
Yes. Dependent parents and grandparents can be included in the application, provided they are financially dependent on the principal applicant.
Malta's due diligence process is among the most rigorous in the world. It includes checks by Identità, international agencies, and third-party due diligence firms across multiple tiers. A clean record and transparent financial history are essential.
Unsure if you qualify for the Malta programme?
Our advisors assess your eligibility within 24 hours — no fees, no commitment.