Malta's Citizenship Program Ending: Key Facts

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment was introduced in 2020, creating a pathway for individuals to acquire Maltese citizenship, and thus, an EU passport, via a considerable financial investment in the country.

On March 21, 2023, the European Commission initiated action against Malta regarding this program, claiming that its operation violated fundamental the EU principles of union citizenship and sincere cooperation between member states.

On October 4th 2024, Mr. Anthony Collins, an Advocate General for Ireland on the European Court of Justice (ECJ), published his Opinion on Case C-181/23, in regards to the ongoing legal battle between the European Commission and Malta, in which he stated that EU Member States have the right to establish their own nationality law and the requirements for obtaining citizenship however they see fit.

Hoewever, after a longstanding legal battle between the European Commission and Malta, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled on April 29th 2025, that “the Republic of Malta has failed to fulfil its obligations under Article 20 TFEU and Article 4(3) TEU.”

The Court defines that Union citizenship is a special relationship of solidarity, good faith and reciprocal rights and duties between the state and its citizens, and that the transactional nature of the citizenship program amounts to the commercialization of Union citizenship, undermining mutual trust among member states, as it doesn’t constitute a genuine link between citizen and country.

This ruling effectively closes the Maltese citizenship pathway for new investors. If you were considering Malta for EU citizenship, now is the moment to explore the best alternatives.

Where to Go Next? Best Alternatives for EU Residency and Citizenship

With Malta's citizenship program to be soon terminated, other European countries offer appealing alternatives for securing residency and ultimately EU citizenship by investment.

Portugal Golden Visa: Europe’s Most Popular Residency by Investment Program

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of Europe’s most reliable and beneficial residency programs. Investors can secure residency through an investment of €500,000 in regulated investment funds.

Key Benefits:

• Residency for investors and their families, including dependent children and parents.
  
  
• Fast-Track Pathway to EU Citizenship: 5 Years
  
  
• Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone (29 countries).
  
  
• Minimal stay requirement: 7 days in the 1st year, 14 days each subsequent 2-year period.
  
  
• Access to a stable Eurozone economy, excellent healthcare, and education systems.

For investors seeking EU citizenship with long-term stability, Portugal offers a secure and well-established pathway.

>> Alternatively, Investment Visa has an exclusive residency option starting at just €155,000. <<

Greece Golden Visa: The Closest Mediterranean Alternative

Geographically close to Malta and culturally similar, Greece’s Golden Visa provides an ideal alternative, particularly attractive due to its affordable entry point at just €250,000 through a real estate purchase, and the high potential for investment returns, which may be especially appealing for investors previously considering Malta.

Key Advantages:

• Lowest real estate investment threshold in Europe
  
  
• Booming tourism and real estate sectors providing excellent ROI potential
  
  
• Immediate residency rights with no minimum stay requirement
  
  
• Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone
  
  
• Pathway to Greek (and EU) citizenship after 7 years

Secure Your Residency in Portugal or Greece with Investment Visa

At Investment Visa, we specialize in creating tailored solutions matching your unique investment objectives and personal preferences. Our comprehensive support ensures a smooth transition, providing you with personalized investment strategies aligned with residency and citizenship goals, and expert legal and tax advisory from start to finish.

It’s clear there’s increasing pressure by the EU on its Member States to terminate or discontinue residency & citizenship programs.

>>This only highlights the urgency to secure EU Residency, which remains the only path to obtain EU citizenship & passport by investment, as soon as possible.<<