Malta Citizenship by Naturalization: Complete Guide 2025
Become a Maltan citizen after 5 years of legal residence. Keep your original citizenship while gaining EU rights and visa-free travel to 187 countries.
What is Malta Citizenship by Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which foreign nationals can become Maltan citizens after meeting residency and integration requirements. After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Malta, you can apply for citizenship and gain full rights as an EU citizen.
Benefits of Malta Citizenship
- EU Freedom: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Global Mobility: Visa-free travel to 187 destinations
- Social Benefits: Access to Malta's social security and healthcare
- Political Rights: Vote in Malta and EU elections
- Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality
Malta Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Residence Permit Application
RequiredInitial residence permit to start the 5-year requirement
Varies by visa type (work, study, family reunification)
Residence Permit Renewals
RequiredPeriodic renewals during 5-year period
Typically renewed annually or biannually
Criminal Background Checks
RequiredPolice clearances from all countries of residence
Required from all countries lived in after age 16
Citizenship Application Fee
RequiredFinal citizenship application processing fee
Paid when submitting naturalization application
Integration Test/Course
RequiredMalta culture, history, and civic knowledge
Tests knowledge of Malta society and values
Legal Assistance
OptionalImmigration lawyer for naturalization process
Recommended for complex cases
Important Cost Considerations:
- Total process takes 5+ years including residency requirement
- Must maintain continuous legal residence in Malta
- No formal language requirement
- Must demonstrate integration into Malta society
- Dual citizenship allowed
- Tax compliance required during residency period
- Success rate approximately 80% for naturalization
💡 Money-Saving Tips:
- Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
- Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
- Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
Malta Naturalization Requirements
Basic Requirements:
- 5 years of continuous legal residence
- Clean criminal record
- Stable income and accommodation
- Integration into Malta society
Important Considerations:
- Must not leave Malta for more than 6 months per year
- Must pay taxes in Malta during residency
- Processing times can vary significantly
Naturalization Process: Step-by-Step
Obtain Legal Residence in Malta
Get residence permit through work, study, family, or investment
💡 Tip: Different visa types available based on your situation
Maintain Continuous Residence for 5 Years
Live legally in Malta for the required period
💡 Tip: Must not leave country for extended periods
Integration Requirements
Meet integration requirements
💡 Tip: Requirements vary by case
Prepare Naturalization Application
Gather all required documents and complete forms
💡 Tip: All foreign documents need translation and apostille
Submit Citizenship Application
File application with immigration authorities
💡 Tip: Application fees vary by processing location
Pass Citizenship Test/Interview
Demonstrate knowledge of Malta history, culture, and laws
💡 Tip: Study materials usually provided by authorities
Citizenship Approval and Ceremony
Receive approval and attend naturalization ceremony
💡 Tip: Can keep original citizenship
Ways to Obtain Residence in Malta
Work Visa
Most common route through employment with a Malta company. Requires job offer and work permit.
EU Blue Card
For highly skilled workers with university degree and qualifying salary offer.
Student Visa
Study at a Malta university. Time counts partially toward residency requirement.
Family Reunification
Join family members who are Malta citizens or permanent residents.