How to Obtain Citizenship in Malta as a Nigerian 

Malta is a tiny but highly sought-after European country renowned for its history, natural beauty, stable economy, and membership in the EU. Acquiring Maltese citizenship as a Nigerian offers numerous benefits, including visa-free travel to over 180 countries, access to high-quality healthcare and education, and the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU. 

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the various pathways to gaining Maltese citizenship as a Nigerian, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and key considerations. 

Ways to Obtain Maltese Citizenship as a Nigerian 

There are three primary ways a Nigerian can obtain citizenship in Malta: 

• Citizenship by Naturalization (Standard Route) 
• Citizenship by Investment (Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment – NESDI) 
• Citizenship by Marriage 

1. Citizenship by Naturalization (Standard Route)

This is the most common route for obtaining citizenship in Malta for foreigners, including Nigerians, who have legally resided in the country for a specific period. 

Eligibility Requirements 

To apply for Maltese citizenship through naturalization, you must: 

• Have legally resided in Malta for at least 5 years before submitting the application. 
• Have continuous residence in Malta for 12 months before applying. 
• Be of good character (verified through background checks). 
• Have a basic knowledge of the Maltese language. 
• Be able to support yourself financially. 
• Have no criminal record. 

Application Process 

1. Obtain a residence permit: Before applying for citizenship, you must first become a legal resident of Malta. This can be done through a work visa, student visa, or other residence programs. 
2. Fulfill residency requirements: Ensure you meet the continuous residency requirement of five years. 
3. Apply to the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs. 
4. Attend an interview: The authorities may conduct an interview to assess your integration into Maltese society. 
5. Receive approval and take the Oath of Allegiance: Once approved, you will be required to take an oath, officially making you a Maltese citizen. 
6. Obtain your Maltese passport and ID card.

Processing Time: The naturalization process can take up to 2 years. 

2. Citizenship by Investment (Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment – NESDI)

Malta offers a citizenship-by-investment program that allows high-net-worth individuals to obtain citizenship in a relatively shorter time by making significant financial contributions to the country. 

Investment Requirements 

To qualify under the NESDI program, you must: 

A. Make a non-refundable government donation: 

• €600,000 (for a residence period of 36 months) 
• €750,000 (for a residence period of 12 months) 

B. Donate at least €10,000 to an approved Maltese charity 

C. Invest in real estate: 

• Purchase a property worth at least €700,000, or 
• Rent a property for at least €16,000 per year for a minimum of five years. 

Application Process 

1. Apply for a residence permit: Before you can apply for citizenship, you must obtain a Maltese residence permit and maintain it for 12–36 months. 
2. Meet the financial requirements as outlined above. 
3. Undergo strict due diligence checks: The government performs thorough background checks to ensure applicants meet character and financial integrity standards. 
4. Receive approval and take the Oath of Allegiance. 
5. Obtain your Maltese passport and citizenship certificate. 

Processing Time: The NESDI process can take between 12 and 36 months, depending on the investment option chosen. 

3. Citizenship by Marriage

A Nigerian who marries a Maltese citizen can apply for citizenship by registration. 

Eligibility Requirements 

• Be legally married to a Maltese citizen. 
• Have been married for at least 5 years. 
• Provide proof of a genuine and ongoing relationship. 
• Be of good character with no criminal record. 

Application Process 

1. Obtain a Maltese residence permit. 
2. Provide proof of marriage and relationship stability. 
3. Submit the citizenship application to Identity Malta. 
4. Undergo background checks. 
5. Receive approval and obtain your Maltese passport. 

Processing Time: Citizenship by marriage typically takes 18 to 24 months. 

Benefits of Maltese Citizenship 

Obtaining Maltese citizenship comes with several advantages, including: 

• Visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the UK, EU, and Schengen Zone. 
• Right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union (EU). 
• Access to world-class healthcare and education. 
• Dual citizenship is allowed, meaning you can retain your Nigerian nationality. 
• Business and tax benefits for investors and entrepreneurs. 

Challenges Nigerians May Face and How to Overcome Them 

1. Strict Residency Requirements: Ensure you maintain a legal residence status and comply with the minimum stay requirement. 
2. Financial Commitment for Investment Route: This option is best suited for high-net-worth individuals who can meet the financial requirements. 
3. Language Barrier: Basic knowledge of the Maltese language is required for naturalization. Consider taking language courses. 
4. Due Diligence Checks: Ensure all your documents are accurate and complete to pass the government’s background verification. 

Malta offers Nigerians several paths to citizenship, including naturalization, investment, and marriage. All of them have different requirements, fees, and processing durations. If you seek to gain Maltese citizenship, plan early, be in full accordance with all legal terms, and maybe employ the services of professionals who will walk you through the procedure smoothly without mishaps. 

By obtaining Maltese citizenship, you can enjoy unparalleled global mobility, access to the EU market, and a higher quality of life in a safe and prosperous country.