Roger A. Strickland Jr’s articles from CSB Group are most popular:
- within Media, Telecoms, IT and Entertainment topic(s)
- in European Union
- in European Union
- in European Union
- in European Union
- in European Union
- in European Union
CSB Group are most popular:
- within Media, Telecoms, IT, Entertainment, Immigration and Accounting and Audit topic(s)
Malta continues to strengthen its framework for recognising
individuals who make exceptional contributions to the country or to
humanity through the Granting of Citizenship by Naturalisation on
the Basis of Merit Regulations (Subsidiary Legislation 188.06).
This legislation, grounded in Article 10(9) of the Maltese
Citizenship Act, outlines a discretionary pathway for individuals
who demonstrate outstanding achievement, service, or promise of
significant benefit to the Republic of Malta. Rather than a
transactional or investment-based approach, this route is reserved
for those whose work, innovation, or leadership exemplify
excellence and align with Malta’s national interests and
values.
What Has Changed?
Recent amendments to the Citizenship Act and its subsidiary
legislation have refined and reinforced the merit-based framework,
ensuring clarity, due diligence, and rigorous evaluation throughout
the process.
1. A Clearer Legal Foundation
The Granting of Citizenship by Naturalisation on the Basis of
Merit Regulations continues to serve as the statutory basis for
citizenship through merit, with updated provisions to strengthen
evaluation, transparency, and oversight.
2. Focus on Exceptional Value
Citizenship on the basis of merit may be granted to individuals
who have demonstrated or are capable of demonstrating exceptional
service or contribution to Malta or humanity. The emphasis lies on
value and impact and not on financial investment.
3. Recognised Areas of Contribution
The Regulations identify various fields in which applicants may
be considered, including:
- Science and research;
- Technology and innovation;
- Arts and culture;
- Sports and high-level performance;
- Entrepreneurship and business;
- Philanthropy and social contribution.
Other areas may also be considered, provided they align with
Malta’s strategic or cultural priorities.
Stronger Evaluation and Oversight
Applications under this framework are subject to a multi-layered
review process:
- Applicants begin by submitting a detailed proposal letter
outlining their background, achievements, and contribution to Malta
or humanity. - The proposal undergoes independent evaluation by a specialised
board. - The Community Malta Agency conducts thorough due diligence
checks. - A final recommendation is made to the Minister, whose decision
is discretionary and final.
Only those proposals that demonstrate clear and verifiable merit
progress to the formal application stage.
Requirements at Application Stage
Following an approval in principle, applicants must:
- Prove at least eight months of residence in Malta;
- Hold or lease adequate property in Malta;
- Demonstrate knowledge of English or Maltese;
- Show tangible ties and commitment to the Republic of
Malta; - Provide proof of ongoing contribution or recognition from a
relevant Maltese entity.
Upon final approval, successful applicants and any approved
dependents will take the Oath of Allegiance and receive the
certificate of naturalisation.
Why This Matters
A Framework Rooted in Integrity
By clearly separating merit-based naturalisation from investment
mechanisms, Malta underscores its commitment to credibility,
transparency, and excellence in citizenship policy.
Recognising Talent and Achievement
This route honours individuals whose global achievements bring
tangible benefit and prestige to Malta — positioning the
country as a hub that celebrates leadership, innovation, and
service.
National Interest and Sustainability
Through this legislation, Malta aligns citizenship with
long-term value creation, encouraging individuals whose
contributions resonate with the country’s social, economic, and
cultural goals.
The Role of CSB Group
With decades of experience in regulatory and immigration
advisory, CSB Group supports individuals exploring the citizenship
by merit framework under Subsidiary Legislation 188.06. Our role
includes:
- Eligibility Review – Assessing whether
the individual’s achievements and contributions align with the
legal criteria. - Proposal Preparation – Assisting in
drafting and structuring the proposal letter and supporting
documentation. - Due Diligence Support – Ensuring
compliance with the requirements of the Community Malta
Agency. - Ongoing Guidance – Providing advisory
support throughout the evaluation and application stages.
Conclusion
The Granting of Citizenship by Naturalisation on the Basis of
Merit Regulations represents Malta’s vision of citizenship as a
recognition of excellence and genuine contribution. For those whose
achievements or endeavours demonstrate exceptional merit, this
framework offers a respected and principled avenue toward Maltese
citizenship — one built on value, integrity, and shared
purpose.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general
guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought
about your specific circumstances.
