Do I need two sponsors for Maltese naturalisation?

Yes. The Community Malta Agency page says two non-relative sponsors are required. The first sponsor must come from an eligible professional or public role; the second may be an eligible Maltese citizen.

How much does Maltese citizenship by naturalisation cost?

The published application fee is EUR 450, with a further EUR 50 payable if the application is accepted and the certificate is collected. Additional oath, affidavit, declaration, or re-naturalisation fees can apply.

Is approval automatic if I meet the requirements?

No. The Minister responsible for citizenship matters has discretion to grant or refuse the application.

Citizenship by Naturalisation in Malta

Q: What is the residence requirement for Malta citizenship by naturalisation?

The public residence requirement is residence in Malta throughout the 12 months immediately before applying, plus at least 4 years of aggregate residence during the 6 years before that final 12-month period.

This is the ordinary residence-based citizenship route most relevant to foreign workers and long-term residents. It is document-heavy and discretionary, so the planning starts years before the application.

Official SourceLast updated 30 April 2026

Do not apply from a weak file

The danger is not only being ineligible. The danger is thinking your residence years are enough while your passports, sponsors, language readiness, or documentary history are incomplete.

The residence-based route in plain English

Community Malta Agency Malta allows a foreigner or stateless person over 18 to apply for citizenship by naturalisation on the basis of residence, if the public requirements are satisfied.

For workers, this route is usually more relevant than citizenship by merit because it is tied to residence history rather than exceptional national contribution.

The five practical stages

Stage 1

Build and prove residence

You need the final 12 months immediately before applying, plus at least 4 years of aggregate residence during the 6 years before that final year.

Stage 2

Book the residence certificate appointment

The Agency asks for your current passport and expired passports covering your period of residence in Malta.

Stage 3

Prepare sponsors

You need two sponsors who are not relatives. The first must be from an eligible professional or public role; the second must be an eligible Maltese citizen.

Stage 4

Submit documents and forms

Once the Agency confirms you may proceed, you submit the requested documentation and verify/sign the completed application form.

Stage 5

Take the oath and wait for decision

Successful applicants are naturalised from the date on the certificate of naturalisation, but approval remains discretionary.

Language, character, and suitability

The public criteria include good character, adequate knowledge of Maltese or English, and being a suitable citizen of Malta. These are not box-ticking details. They are part of why the route is discretionary.

Documents to start protecting now

Current and expired passports covering your Malta residence period.
Residence cards and permit renewal records.
Proof of continuous residence and stable address history.
Employment and tax/NI records where relevant.
Evidence of language readiness and integration.
Potential sponsor contacts who meet the Agency criteria.

Long-term residence is not citizenship

Many people first become focused on long-term residence. That status can be part of a long-term Malta plan, but it does not automatically become citizenship.

Who this page is for

This page is for people already thinking beyond the next permit renewal: workers, spouses, long-term residents, and families who want to know whether Malta can become a permanent home.

Build a citizenship-ready file

Save residence dates, renewal reminders, document notes, and integration milestones before you reach the application window.

Create my free tracker

Sources

Official SourceAcquisition of CitizenshipVerified 30 Apr 2026

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MaltaPathway is not a law firm, immigration consultancy, or government agency. The information on this page is based on publicly available official sources and is provided for informational purposes only. Immigration rules change — always verify with the relevant authority before making decisions. If your case is complex, consult a licensed immigration lawyer.