The Maltese Citizenships (Amendment) Act (“the Act”) has officially come into force on 24 July 2025, making a landmark shift in Malta’s citizenship framework. This amendment abolishes the Individual Investor Programme and introduces a merit-based pathway to naturalisation that prioritises national interest and exception contribution over financial investment.
This reform comes in direct response to a pivotal European Court of Justice (“ECJ”) ruling in Case C-181/23, which found Malta’s previous scheme incompatible with EU law. The ECJ held that due to its transactional nature and the absence of a genuine link between applicants and the country it undermined EU principles of solidarity and sincere cooperation. In line with this judgement, the Act eliminates all reference to the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Service by Direct investment and removes the involvement of licensed agents in the application process.
Citizenship by Merit
Under the revised law which centres around the principle of exceptional contribution, individuals who have “rendered, or intend to render, exceptional services or contributions to Malta or humanity, or whose naturalisation is of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta.” The term “exceptional” has been clearly defined within the new regulations to mean “manifestly superior or adding value.” Eligible contributions span across a wide range of fields, including but not limited to, science and research, sports and athletics, arts and cultural performance, entrepreneurship (notably through job creation), philanthropy, and technology. These categories align with national priorities and the broader intent to attract individuals with proven impact or potential for high-level contribution.
The application process begins with a proposal submission to the Community Malta Agency, outlining the applicant’s background and intended contributions. Following due diligence and evaluation by an independent board, eligible applicants may receive approval in principle before proceedings with a full application. Citizenship remains conditional on proven residency in Malta for at least eight months prior to application and the successful taking of the Oath of Allegiance within six months of approval. A signed undertaking to uphold commitments post-naturalisation is also mandatory.
Family inclusion remains possible, permitting the main applicant to include their spouse or partner, children under 18 (including adopted children), and unmarried, financially dependent children between the ages of 18 and 28. Children with disabilities may also be included regardless of age, provided dependency is established.
Importantly, individuals who previously acquired citizenship under the now-defunct investment-based programme will retain their citizenship, in accordance with the laws applicable at the time of their naturalisation.
This legislative shift reaffirms Malta’s sovereign right to grant citizenship, provided it aligns with EU norms.
For any further information or tailored legal advice, please do not hesitate to contact the team at David Zahra & Associates Advocates.
