The New Way to Get Malta Citizenship in 2026

Summary

The video discusses the European Union's crackdown on citizenship by investment programs and focuses on Malta’s unique path to EU citizenship. Malta offers a streamlined process for exceptional individuals to obtain citizenship through economic contributions, including donations or business investments. This route provides access to the entire EU and a highly respected passport, allowing travel to over 188 countries. The process is faster than most EU programs, taking around 12-18 months. The video highlights the benefits of Maltese citizenship and the need for careful evaluation of alternative citizenship options.

Takeaways

• 😀 The EU has recently cracked down on citizenship-by-investment programs, causing some Caribbean programs to raise prices and impose new residence requirements.
• 😀 Malta's MEIN program, which offered citizenship through investment, was shut down by the EU despite its rigorous due diligence process.
• 😀 Citizenship by investment in Malta allowed investors to obtain a European Union passport, granting access to 30+ EU countries, offering opportunities for tax-friendly living, and mobility.
• 😀 The previous MEIN program had an investment requirement (around €750,000) and needed a physical presence, including real estate and establishing connections in the country.
• 😀 The current Maltese program is more flexible, with no fixed investment amount, but still requires genuine ties to the country through residency, real estate, and local donations.
• 😀 The EU's crackdown on such programs has led to more bureaucratic processes, but Malta still remains attractive due to its pro-business environment and EU membership benefits.
• 😀 Malta's passport is ranked #1 in the Nomad Passport Index and provides travel freedom, with visa-free access to around 188 countries, including the possibility of visiting the US with an ESTA.
• 😀 Applicants for Malta's citizenship must demonstrate exceptional contributions to the country, such as in science, technology, business, arts, or philanthropy, with an estimated processing time of 12 to 18 months.
• 😀 While Austria does not allow dual citizenship, Malta is flexible, and applicants can include their spouse and dependent children up to 29 years old in their application.
• 😀 The cost of obtaining Maltese citizenship has risen over the years, and potential applicants are advised to act before the program becomes more restrictive or expensive.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the script?

The main topic of the script is the European Union's stance on citizenship by investment (CBI) programs, specifically Malta's CBI program and its recent changes.

Why did Malta's CBI program get shut down?

Malta's CBI program, known as the MEIN, was shut down due to pressure from the European Union, which opposed such investment-based citizenship programs.

What makes Malta’s citizenship program attractive despite recent changes?

Malta’s program offers fast processing times (12-18 months), dual citizenship, and the ability to live and work anywhere in the EU, which makes it attractive to individuals seeking European Union membership and global mobility.

What is the main difference between Malta’s previous MEIN program and the new program?

The new program is less transactional and involves making an 'exceptional contribution' to Malta's economy, whereas the previous MEIN program had fixed investment amounts and was more straightforward in its requirements.

How does Malta’s citizenship program compare to other EU countries?

Malta's program is faster than other EU countries like Austria, where naturalization can take 6-7 years. Malta's process can be completed in 12-18 months, offering a quicker route to EU citizenship.

What are the key eligibility requirements for Malta’s citizenship program?

Key eligibility requirements include making a significant contribution to Malta’s economy, permanent residency through real estate, a clean criminal record, and showing integration into Maltese society. Proficiency in English or Maltese is also required.

Can applicants include their families in Malta's citizenship program?

Yes, applicants can include their spouse or partner and financially dependent unmarried children up to the age of 29.

What types of contributions to Malta’s economy are acceptable for the citizenship program?

Contributions can include business investments, donations to local charities, or other initiatives that demonstrate a positive impact on the Maltese economy and society.

What are some advantages of having Maltese citizenship?

Advantages include visa-free access to 188 countries, the ability to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU, and a respected passport with global travel flexibility. It also allows for dual citizenship without restrictions.

What should applicants consider before applying for Maltese citizenship?

Applicants should evaluate other citizenship or residency options in the EU and Eastern Europe, as well as the cost and complexity of the process, to determine if Malta’s citizenship program is the best fit for their needs.