Malta has become an increasingly popular destination for individuals seeking second citizenship through investment. With its stable economy, attractive tax regime, and stunning Mediterranean environment, the Maltese Citizenship by Investment Programme provides a gateway to EU benefits and a higher quality of life. However, prospective investors must understand the Malta citizenship by investment cost to fully evaluate whether this programme aligns with their financial and personal goals.
This article breaks down the costs of acquiring Maltese citizenship through investment. Additionally, it covers fees and other requirements involved in the process.
Malta Citizenship by Investment Cost: What You Need to Know
The Malta citizenship by investment cost varies depending on various factors such as the number of dependents and investment options chosen. The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment officially names the programme. It requires several key financial commitments. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with the programme below.
1. Мalta citizenship by investment cost – contribution to the National Development and Social Fund
The first major component of the Malta citizenship by investment cost is the contribution to the National Development and Social Fund. This non-refundable contribution supports social and economic projects in Malta. As a result, the community and national development benefit significantly. The required contribution is structured as follows:
- Single Applicant: €750,000
- Applicant with Spouse: €800,000
- Applicant with Spouse and Children: Additionally, there is €50,000 per child for each additional dependent.
Furthermore, this contribution is crucial for the application process. It remains non-refundable, even if the application is unsuccessful.
2. Investment in Government Bonds
Another significant aspect of the Malta citizenship by investment cost involves investing in government bonds. Holders must maintain these bonds for at least five years before they can liquidate them, ensuring a stable financial commitment to the country.
3. Real Estate Investment
To meet the Malta citizenship by investment cost, applicants need to invest in real estate. There are two ways to do this:
- First, applicants can purchase property in Malta. The property must be valued at a minimum of €700,000. Additionally, applicants must hold the property for at least five years.
- Alternatively, applicants can lease property in Malta. They need to secure a minimum annual lease of €16,000 for five years.
This real estate investment adds another layer to the overall cost of obtaining Maltese citizenship. Moreover, real estate in Malta has seen a steady rise in value. Therefore, this option is appealing for long-term investment.
4. Due Diligence Fees
Due diligence fees play a crucial role in Malta citizenship by investment cost, ensuring that only qualified individuals and families receive citizenship. These fees vary based on the applicant’s nationality and are generally as follows:
- Individual Applicant: €15,000
- Dependents: Additional due diligence fees apply for each dependent, usually around €5,000 per dependent.
These fees are non-refundable and help cover the cost of the background checks required for the application process.
5. Government Processing Fees
The government processing fees are necessary to cover administrative costs. Specifically, these fees relate to the processing of the citizenship application.
These fees contribute significantly to processing various documentation. Furthermore, they help cover the necessary steps involved in obtaining citizenship.
6. Legal Fees
The complexity of the Citizenship by Investment programme makes it advisable to work with licensed intermediaries or legal advisors. Legal fees play a critical role in the cost of Malta citizenship by investment and can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case. Typically, legal fees range from:
- €5,000 to €20,000, depending on the services required and the complexity of the application.
Engaging experienced legal advisors ensures that you meet all legal requirements, increasing your chances of a successful application.
7. Miscellaneous Costs
You should factor in several other miscellaneous costs when calculating the Malta citizenship by investment cost. These can include:
- Medical Insurance: Applicants must maintain health insurance for the duration of their stay in Malta.
- Document Collection and Notarization: Expenses related to gathering, translating, and notarizing required documents.
- Travel Costs: If an applicant is required to travel to Malta for interviews or meetings, these costs should be considered.
While these additional costs may not be as significant as other fees, they can still accumulate and should be included in your overall budget.
Total Estimated Costs for Malta Citizenship by Investment
When considering Malta citizenship by investment cost, it is essential to factor in all of the components above. For a single applicant, the total estimated cost for acquiring Maltese citizenship ranges from €1,010,000. This amount applies if one opts for the minimum required fees. However, costs can significantly increase based on the number of dependents and selected investment options. Consequently, careful planning is essential for potential applicants.
It is important to remember that the contribution to the National Development and Social Fund is non-refundable, while other investments, such as real estate, can be recouped after the required holding period.
Conclusion: Is the Malta Citizenship by Investment Programme Worth the Cost?
Obtaining citizenship in Malta through investment offers numerous benefits. These include access to the European Union, an attractive tax regime, and a high quality of life in the Mediterranean. However, the cost of Malta citizenship by investment can be substantial. Therefore, it’s crucial for potential applicants to carefully evaluate the financial commitment involved. Additionally, they must ensure they understand all the associated fees.
Before proceeding, conducting thorough research and consulting with qualified professionals will ensure a smooth and successful application process. Choosing the right legal advisors is essential. Moreover, thoroughly understanding the financial obligations is crucial. Consequently, you can make an informed decision about Malta’s Citizenship by Investment programme. Ultimately, this choice could be the best option for you and your family.
FAQ
What is the duration of the Malta Citizenship by Investment process?
The process typically takes between 12 and 18 months, from the submission of the approval application.
Is the investment refundable after citizenship is obtained?
Yes, you can refund real estate investments after a five-year holding period. However, the contribution to the National Development and Social Fund remains non-refundable.
Do I need to reside in Malta to obtain citizenship?
No, there is no requirement for physical residence in Malta to acquire citizenship. However, applicants must maintain residence during the application process.
Can children be included in the application?
Yes, dependent children under the age of 18 can be included in the application. Additional fees apply for each dependent.
Is there a language requirement for Maltese citizenship?
There is no formal language requirement for the Malta citizenship by investment cost programme. However, a basic understanding of English or Maltese can be helpful.