In 2023 I successfully obtained my Maltese citizenship and passport through my (deceased) maternal grandmother. Embark on a journey on how I discovered my Maltese heritage and secured a valuable Maltese EU passport through my family history.
Our guide will navigate you through the process, ensuring you confidently pursue citizenship based on your familial ties to Malta. I will provide my experience obtaining Maltese citizenship by descent and passport via the Perth (Australia) Maltese consulate and Canberra (Australia) and London (UK) embassies.
Benefits of a Maltese EU Passport
Owning a Maltese passport comes with various benefits, making it an appealing choice for individuals seeking dual citizenship or wanting to explore opportunities in Malta and the European Union (EU).
Here are some main advantages:
- Visa-Free Travel: Maltese passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide. This facilitates easier travel for business, leisure, or other purposes.
- EU Citizenship: Malta is a member state of the European Union. Holding a Maltese passport grants you the rights and privileges of an EU citizen, including the ability to live, work, and study in any EU country. This was valuable as my UK passport is not as useful after BREXIT.
- Work and Residence in Malta: With a Maltese passport, you have the right to reside and work in Malta without the need for additional permits. This is particularly advantageous for those interested in exploring career opportunities or retiring in Malta.
- Access to Healthcare and Education: Maltese citizens have access to the healthcare and education systems in Malta on the same terms as other locals. This can be beneficial for families considering relocating to Malta.
- Political Stability and Rule of Law: Malta is known for its political stability, strong rule of law, and robust financial system. Holding a Maltese passport provides a sense of security and stability in an EU member state.
- Investment Opportunities: Malta offers various investment opportunities, and being a Maltese citizen may make it easier to engage in business activities or investments within the country.
- Cultural and Historical Ties: For individuals with Maltese ancestry, obtaining a Maltese passport can be a way to reconnect with their cultural and historical roots. It provides a tangible link to Malta’s rich heritage.
- Family Reunification: If you have family members who are also eligible for Maltese citizenship, obtaining a Maltese passport can facilitate family reunification, allowing loved ones to share in the benefits of citizenship.
- Financial Options: Maltese passport gives you the option for Maltese residency, which would gives options for managing your domicile, number of days outside of a country (such as Australia) and taxation on international income. See https://nomadcapitalist.com/global-citizen/is-malta-a-tax-haven/ for more information.
Keep in mind citizenship by investment (and therefore the value of the citizenship) is between €600k and €700k.
This guide will walk you through the steps, requirements, and intricacies involved in the application process, ensuring that you navigate this process with confidence.
Understanding Maltese Citizenship Laws
Malta has unique citizenship laws that allow individuals with Maltese ancestry to apply for citizenship. To begin your journey, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these laws. The Maltese Citizenship Act outlines the eligibility criteria, including the requirement that at least one of your grandparents was born in Malta.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Malta citizenship by descent, you typically need to meet the following criteria:
- Ancestral Ties: You must have a grandparent who holds or held Maltese citizenship. This connection allows you to make a claim for citizenship.
- Administration: The process falls under the official citizenship by registration program. While it primarily covers spouses of Maltese citizens, there are provisions specifically for ancestry.
- Birth Date: If you were born on or after August 1, 1989, you may be eligible for Maltese citizenship if one of your parents is a Maltese citizen. Additionally, if you were born between September 21, 1964, and July 31, 1989, to a Maltese-born or naturalized mother, you can apply for citizenship by registration.
Gathering Genealogical Records
Start by collecting detailed genealogical records that prove your familial connection to Malta. This may include birth, marriage, and death certificates of your Maltese ancestors. Websites like the Malta Public Registry and the National Archives of Malta can serve as valuable resources for obtaining these documents.
For my application required sighted copies of:
Mother birth certificate (English)
Grandmother birth certificate (Maltese)
Great grandfather birth certificate (Maltese)
All copies were provided that were witnessed (with a stamp and signature) by the Maltese ‘Consultate’ in Perth, Australia.
Navigating Dual Citizenship Regulations
Before proceeding, it’s essential to understand Malta’s stance on dual citizenship. Malta generally permits dual citizenship, but it’s crucial to check the regulations in your current country of residence to ensure compliance with their laws regarding dual nationality.
Documenting Your Family Tree
Create a family tree that clearly illustrates your lineage to your Maltese ancestors. This visual representation will not only aid in your application but also serve as a compelling narrative of your family’s history.
Legalizing and Translating Documents
Ensure that all your genealogical documents are legalized and, if necessary, translated into English or Maltese. I did this with an appointment at the local Malta consulate in Perth, Australia. But this took two trips, with a lead time in between, to get documents certified, obtain a missing death certificate and then return for the Oath of Allegiance.
The Maltese authorities require official translations for documents not originally in one of these languages.
Applying for Maltese Citizenship
Submit your application for Maltese citizenship through the relevant authorities, providing all required documents, including your family tree, legalized genealogical records, and proof of connection to Malta.
To apply for Malta citizenship by descent, follow these steps:
- Documentary Evidence: Provide proof of your citizenship link through birth, marriage, or death certificates.
- Apply for Registration: Apply for citizenship by registration.
- Oath of Allegiance: Take an oath of allegiance.
- Minister’s Opinion: Await the opinion of the Minister, who assesses whether granting citizenship aligns with the public interest
Be prepared for a thorough (read: lengthy) review process.
Application for Maltese Passport
Upon successful approval of your citizenship application, the next step is to apply for your Maltese passport.
Visit the official website of the Identity Malta Agency, the entity responsible for passport issuance, and follow their guidelines for passport application.
Required Documents for Passport Application
Prepare the necessary documents for your passport application, including your newly acquired Maltese citizenship certificate, a valid ID card, passport-sized photos, and any additional forms specified by the Identity Malta Agency.
Processing Time and Fees
Understand the processing time for passport issuance and be aware of any associated fees. For mine, the wait was 14 weeks all up – 12 weeks for the birth certificate registration and then 2 weeks for the passport. I asked during the appointment if there was any way to expedite the process and the response was a quick Maltese “NO”.Th
Registration of the birth certificate in Malta cost EUR x and the 10-year passport EUR X
The official website will provides limited information on the timeframe, I recommend emailing the consulate directly and expect at least 10 days for a brief response….
Collecting Your Maltese Passport
Once your passport application is approved and processed, you will be notified regarding the collection of your Maltese passport. Follow the instructions provided to retrieve your passport from the designated location.
Obtaining a Maltese passport through family history is a tedious and patient journey that gives you options in this new world. The entire process took me 2 years (and that doesn’t include proceeding work to obtain my great grandparents’ documentation from Malta!).
By reading this guide, backed by factual information , references and my experience, you’ll be well-equipped not only to secure Maltese citizenship but also to navigate the subsequent passport application process successfully.
