Malta Citizenship by Direct Investment

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN) is one of the most popular and sought-after citizenship programmes in Europe. It provides individuals with a unique opportunity to obtain Maltese Citizenship in exchange for significant investments that contribute to the country’s development. By granting citizenship to qualified investors and their families, this programme offers access to the European Union, enabling visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, as well as the right to live, work, and study in any EU member state.

Malta offers several compelling reasons to seek citizenship through the MEIN programme:

Visa-Free Travel: Maltese citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 destinations, including the Schengen Area and USA (via ESTA).
Strategic Location: Malta is centrally located in the Mediterranean, just 2-3 hours by flight from most major European financial capitals, making it an ideal base for both personal and business needs.
Family Benefits: Citizenship can be extended to spouses, children, parents, and grandparents, providing a secure future for the entire family.
No Language Requirements: Unlike many other countries, Malta does not require applicants to meet language proficiency standards.
Dual Citizenship: Malta recognises dual citizenship, allowing applicants to maintain their original nationality while benefiting from the advantages of being a Maltese citizen.
Favourable Tax System: Malta offers competitive tax rates for both individuals and corporations.
Generational Citizenship: Maltese citizenship is for life and can be passed down to future generations.

A Sound Investment: Malta is an economically stable country with an A + credit rating, showing one of the highest economic growth rates among all EU countries.

Acquiring a second or even third citizenship is an asset for discerning investors looking to strategically structure their personal and professional lives. It offers a significant advantage in mitigating geopolitical risks and is increasingly seen as a preferred tool for diversifying assets. By making a direct investment in Malta, individuals can gain access to Maltese citizenship through the Malta Citizenship by Investment programme. This offers the most desirable citizenship, backed by one of the EU’s most rigorous due diligence processes. Additionally, it represents a sound and stable investment in one of Europe’s most thriving economies, providing a safe and prosperous environment for the entire family.

Financial Contribution for the Malta Citizenship by Direct Investment

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To be eligible for the Malta Citizenship by Investment Programme, applicants must meet several key criteria, including:

Age: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
Residency: Applicants must reside in Malta for at least 36 months (or 12 months under exceptional circumstances), with a lease of residential property valued at a minimum of EUR 16,000 annually. Applicants also require a valid residence card in order to apply for citizenship

Due Diligence: Applicants, along with their dependants, must undergo a thorough background check to assess their financial status, source of wealth, and criminal record. This also includes providing a police certificate of conduct and adequate proof of the source of funds and wealth of the principal applicant. Supporting documentation, such as passport copies and birth certificates, must be legalised and counter-legalised.

Oath of Allegiance: The applicant must take an Oath of Allegiance to Malta and commit to supporting the country’s democratic values.

Investment Requirements

Applicants must make several key investments to qualify for Maltese citizenship:

National Development and Social Fund Contribution:
- €600,000 for applicants having already resided in Malta for at least 36 months, or €750,000 for applicants if they have resided for 12 months only.
- An additional EUR 50,000 for each dependent
Real Estate Investment:
- Applicants must either purchase property valued at a minimum of €700,000 or lease property for a minimum annual rent of €16,000. Properties must be held for at least five years.
Charitable Donation:
- A minimum donation of EUR 10,000 to a registered charitable organisation is required.

TAX TREATMENT

Malta’s tax system applies based on residency rather than citizenship. While resident in Malta, individuals are subject to tax on worldwide income and capital gains if they reside in Malta for 183 days or more each year. Non-residents are taxed only on income derived from Malta.

There are no inheritance or death taxes, and Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is levied at a rate of 12% on property sold within three years of purchase. However, properties held for five years are exempt from CGT.

DEPENDANTS

Eligible dependants of the main applicant include:

Spouses or long-term partners
Children under 18 (or 29 if financially dependent)
Parents or grandparents over 55, who are financially dependent on the applicant

Each dependent incurs a fee of EUR 50,000.

ADMINISTRATIVE FEES

In addition to the investment requirements, the following administrative fees apply:

Residence Application Fees: EUR 5,000 for the main applicant, EUR 1,000 for each dependent.
Due Diligence Fees: EUR 15,000 for the main applicant, EUR 10,000 for each adult dependent.
Eligibility Process Fees: EUR 1,000 for each applicant, plus a fee of EUR 500 after eligibility approval.

DOUBLE TAXATION RELIEF

Malta’s extensive Double Taxation Relief (DTR) network spans over 70 countries, ensuring that residents are not taxed twice on income such as pensions, dividends, or employment. Where no treaties exist, Malta provides Unilateral Relief to offset foreign taxes paid.

Additionally, Malta has no inheritance tax, though certain duties apply to local property transfers and shares.

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER IN MALTA

Established in 1969, Frank Salt Real Estate brings over 55 years of expertise to Malta’s real estate and residency sectors. Renowned for our trusted reputation, we not only assist clients in finding the perfect property for sale or rent but also provide expert guidance through Malta’s residence and citizenship programmes.

With the largest selection of properties in Malta and a team highly experienced in assisting foreign clients, we ensure a seamless relocation or investment process. From personalised residency advice to an extensive range of real estate options, Frank Salt Real Estate is your dependable partner in making Malta your home.