Malta’s Citizenship by Investment route, now known as the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, is aimed at ultra-high net worth individuals.The application for Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment is thoroughly checked and assessed and undergoes a four-tier due diligence process. To qualify, the applicant must fulfill the requirements listed under the program.

Individual investors must make a minimum contribution of €600,000 to the national development fund set up by the government and prove 36 months of residency. Alternatively, there is an expedited route which requires a contribution of €750,000 and evidence of 12 months residency. Investors must also contribute €50,000 per each additional dependent included in their application. In addition to the contribution, investors must also invest a further €700,000 into residential real estate, or enter into a rental agreement at a minimum value of €16,000 p.a which must be maintained for five years. A compulsory donation of €10,000 to a registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare, or artistic non-governmental approved organisation or society is also required.

The benefits after one – three of years residency are citizenship and a Maltese second passport. This in turn grants European citizenship and the ability to live, work and study anywhere in the EU.