For US nationals seeking a European passport, Malta is an excellent choice. Its citizenship can be obtained in just one year by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment.
Immigrant Invest expert Julia Loko highlights the key reasons Maltese citizenship might appeal to Americans.
What are the main benefits of Malta citizenship?
1. A backup plan. US nationals with Maltese passports can relocate to Malta without restrictions during political or economic instability. Even if relocation isn’t immediate, having the option provides peace of mind.
2. Safety. According to Numbeo, Malta has a low crime rate, with minimal risk of assault, robbery, or other attacks. This ensures a secure environment for individuals and families, maintained by proactive efforts from local authorities.
Malta enforces strict gun laws, granting licenses for hunting or target shooting. Firearms usage is strictly prohibited outside regulated areas.
Obtaining a license for hunting is challenging. To get one, a person must provide a special health certificate from a doctor, recommendations from the hunting organization, examination by police officers, and approval from the Commissioner.
3. Focus on inclusivity. Malta prioritises inclusivity and recognises same-sex marriages, ranking 1st globally among LGBTQ+-friendly countries.
The government actively combats discrimination and addresses hate crimes, creating a secure and welcoming environment for minorities, POCs, and non-Christians who may face challenges in the US.
4. More affordable healthcare. Malta provides both public and private healthcare, which is accessible to its citizens. Public healthcare is often low-cost or free, while private healthcare remains affordable, with insurance costing $300—1,500 annually, depending on coverage.
Maltese citizens are also entitled to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) at no cost. The EHIC grants access to medical services across the EU under the same conditions as residents. This allows Maltese citizens to receive treatment in Malta or seek more affordable options in other EU countries if needed.
5. Inexpensive education. Maltese citizens can easily enrol in Maltese or EU universities, benefiting from low or no tuition fees at public institutions.
For example, at the University of Malta, non-EU and non-EEA nationals pay around $4,200 to 10,500, depending on the chosen program. Maltese and other EU citizens either pay nothing or a relatively small fee of around $470 per semester.
6. Ease of travel within Europe. While US passport holders can travel across Europe without visas, long distances often make trip planning challenging.
Europe’s compact geography allows residents to travel between countries in just a few hours. For example, a flight from Malta to Rome takes 1.5 hours and costs as little as $15.
Travelling by car or bus within continental Europe also allows you to cross multiple borders in a single day.
Traveling from Malta to Italian Sicily is possible by ferry. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes
7. Fast integration into society. English is one of Malta’s two official languages, spoken by 96% of the population. This eliminates language barriers for Americans and simplifies bureaucratic processes during relocation and settlement.
8. Dual citizenship. Malta, like the US, recognises dual citizenship, allowing Americans to acquire a Maltese passport without renouncing their US one.
Additionally, descendants of Maltese nationals, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, can obtain citizenship by descent by proving family ties.
9. Second citizenship in one year. Malta offers citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment in just one year. In contrast, obtaining citizenship in most other European countries takes 5—10 years.
So, Malta grants citizenship in one year? How is it possible?
Malta provides a pathway to citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. This allows wealthy individuals to obtain a Maltese passport in either 1 or 3 years. For the 1-year route, applicants must contribute €750,000 to a Maltese state fund, along with additional requirements.
Can you tell a little more about requirements for Malta citizenship for exceptional services by direct investment?
Sure. The time required to obtain Malta citizenship depends on the contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF). Applicants fulfill three mandatory investment requirements:
· contribution to the NDSF — €750,000 for the 1-year route or €600,000 for the 3-year route;
· charity contribution — €10,000;
· real estate investment — renting a property for at least €12,000 annually or purchasing one worth €700,000 or more.
For rentals, applicants must sign a lease agreement with a minimum annual cost of €16,000 for a 5-year term to qualify for citizenship.
Who can obtain Malta citizenship for exceptional services by direct investment?
Any American can apply for Malta citizenship for exceptional services by direct investment if they meet the following requirements:
· age over 18;
· clean criminal record;
· proven income legality;
· no sanctions;
· fulfilled investment conditions.
Applicants can add their spouses, unmarried children under 29, and parents and grandparents over 55 to the application. All family members, except for the spouse, must be principally dependent on the investor.
How to obtain Malta citizenship
Immigrant Invest’s lawyers assist individuals worldwide in obtaining Malta citizenship. They provide guidance on requirements, ensure compliance, and support investors at every stage of the process.
Contact Immigrant Invest to take first steps toward your Maltese passport.