Malta and Brexit: How Can UK Nationals Get an EU Passport

With the Brexit withdrawal agreement now in full effect, British nationals no longer benefit from previous European rights. But what does it mean concretely? Not being a citizen of the European Union anymore equals reduced mobility and administrative constraints to live, study, and travel in Europe. Nevertheless, there is a way for British citizens to enjoy EU rights post Brexit and Malta might just be the way.

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization program, which is more accurately referred to as the Maltese Citizenship Act Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services Regulations, is one such opportunity for UK nationals to broaden their horizons and maintain links with Europe. In this guide, we take you through everything there is to know about Malta and Brexit.

Can I Live in Malta With a British Passport?

No, British citizens cannot live in Malta without the necessary permission, but there are conditions. While you’re allowed to visit Malta with a British passport, you can only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. 

UK nationals seeking to live in Malta long-term would have to apply for a residency visa. Fortunately, while Brexit took away the privilege of having an EU Passport for British citizens, those who are seeking to get their foot back in the EU still have plenty of options available.

Prior to 2021 and Brexit, all British citizens had the right to live and work in Malta by simply submitting a residency permit application. Unfortunately, this changed as of January 1, 2021. However, all those who were residing in Malta up until 2021 were given the right to stay there until new changes hit the ground.

We’ll go through these visa options in the sections below.

What Are the Benefits of Relocating to Malta for British Citizens After Brexit?

Malta joined the EU in 2004, and as such has obtained its EU membership, allowing its residents and citizens to access Europe at large. Famous for its rich history, diverse culture, LGBTQ+ rights, balmy Mediterranean sea, and beautiful beaches, Malta is a prime destination in Europe. 

It’s also an ideal place for British nationals seeking to live in an EU country with excellent healthcare and a top banking system and tax optimisation opportunities

Another reason why the archipelago would make an attractive choice for any foreign national or investor is that it is thriving in the sectors of entrepreneurship, business, and maritime as it has strong trade agreements with other countries in the region and over 70 double taxation agreements.

How Can British Citizens Get Malta Citizenship?

British nationals can become EU citizens by obtaining Malta citizenship by investment.

The Maltese government has created an expedited route to European citizenship for those who can make significant contributions to the Maltese government, purchasing or renting real estate and donating to an NGO of choice via the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization program. Of course, you would need to have a considerably high net worth in order to place a qualifying investment and succeed in your application.

Additionally, there are other routes to acquiring European citizenship. Some of the more popular ones are through residency by investment programs operating across other EU member state countries, such as the Golden Visa Portugal scheme or the Greece Golden Visa scheme.

Their minimum investment threshold demands a much lower cost than Malta’s Citizenship by Naturalization program. Your decision will ultimately hinge on balancing cost and time considerations. 

Malta Citizenship by Naturalization Program

The Maltese government launched its Citizenship by Naturalization program at the end of 2020 as an act to replace and amend the policies of the previous scheme after the Malta Citizenship by Investment changes occurred.

This investor migration scheme provides non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss, and third country nationals and their family members with the opportunity of acquiring a Malta passport in 12 to 36 months, in exchange for a contribution in the country’s economy worth at least €600,000.

The investment can be placed by buying property in Malta, and a philanthropic donation as well. 

Benefits of Investing in the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization Program

There are many benefits of investing in the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program for British citizens, including:

• Obtain Maltese citizenship by naturalization and become EU citizens in 12 to 36 months
• Enjoy visa-free travel to 188 countries
• Acquire your Maltese residence status to work, live, and study in Malta and the EU without restrictions
• Benefit from a great healthcare system
• Include your immediate family members in your application for a new residence status.
• Own prime real estate in the idyllic mediterranean  

Investment requirements for Malta Citizenship

• A non-refundable government contribution: Make an investment with a minimum value of €600,000 or €750,000 to the Maltese National Development and Social Fund, depending on the residence period selected – 36  or 12 months respectively.
• An investment in a residential property: Take a residential property lease with a minimum value of €16,000 per year for a period of 5 years, or purchase a property with a minimum value of €700,000 that must be kept for at least 5 years.
• A philanthropic donation: Make a compulsory donation of €10,000 to an approved and registered non-governmental organization or society in the fields of sports, culture, science, philanthropy, animal welfare, or art.

Can Brits Retire to Malta?

Brits can retire to Malta, even post-Brexit, British citizens are welcome to retire in Malta by applying for a residency permit. Malta offers a variety of residency programs, including the Malta Retirement Programme, tailored specifically for retirees. This program comes with attractive tax benefits and allows you to enjoy Malta’s sunny climate, rich cultural heritage, and excellent quality of life, making it a fantastic option for retiring in Malta.  To qualify, you’ll need to meet certain financial criteria and have health insurance.

Brexit Changes for Students in Malta

As non EU nationals, British citizens don’t need to apply for a student visa if the program is short and lasts no longer than three months. However, if the course extends beyond 90 days, obtaining a temporary residence permit is required after arriving in Malta to stay for a longer period. The Schengen Type D Visa is another option, this is a long-term permit that permits a student to pursue a course that is more than three months.

Key Takeaways Regarding Malta Citizenship and Brexit

In the wake of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union in December 2020, significant changes have emerged, particularly for UK nationals residing in or considering relocation to Malta. Post-Brexit, the status of UK citizens has transformed; they are no longer EU nationals, thus altering their rights to free movement and residence within the EU. This shift necessitates UK nationals to procure a residence permit or document to legally reside in Malta, as per the European Commission’s guidelines.

The European Parliament has played a critical role in shaping citizens’ rights during this transitional period. For UK nationals living in Malta prior to the UK’s exit, their rights to social security and other benefits are protected, provided they hold a valid residence document. This ensures a degree of stability for those who had established their lives in Malta before Brexit.

However, for British citizens contemplating a move to Malta post-Brexit, the process is more complex. They must now adhere to the standard procedures for non EU nationals, which include obtaining a valid travel document and meeting specific criteria for residence in Malta.

The pivot to requiring formal residence permits marks a significant shift in the dynamics between Malta and the UK. It underscores the tangible impacts of Brexit on individual lives, particularly in the realm of mobility and residency rights.

As the situation evolves, it’s crucial for UK nationals to stay informed through reliable sources, such as the European Commission website, to navigate these changes effectively. This new era of UK-Malta relations highlights the intricate interplay of politics, citizenship, and individual rights in a post-Brexit Europe.

As part of our commitment to providing transparent and reliable services, we are proud to be a licensed agent in Malta, holding the official license number AKM-AGEN. This certification demonstrates our dedication to the highest standards in the investment migration industry and further enhances our ability to offer expert guidance and support to our clients.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Malta Citizenship and Brexit

Can I get European citizenship after Brexit?

Yes, UK citizens can become EU citizens post Brexit by applying to an EU residency or citizenship by naturalization program. Malta is a great option for British citizens post Brexit looking for a way to obtain EU residency.

How can I get a Maltese passport?

By applying to the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization Program, a British national and their family members can obtain a Maltese residence status, and become eligible for a Maltese passport in as little as 12 to 36 months. While you must first make a combination of investments worth at least €600,000, and abide by the program’s residency and naturalization requirements set forth by the Maltese government, the real Malta Golden Passport cost is commitment to the program.

Does Malta accept dual citizenship?

Yes, Malta accepts dual citizenship. This is one of the top benefits of applying for Maltese citizenship for UK nationals as they can keep their British citizenship and obtain Malta citizenship while complying with Malta and UK authorities.

Can I live in Malta after Brexit?

Yes, you can, provided you apply for either one of the Malta permanent residency by investment programs or the citizenship by investment program. Otherwise, you will only be able to visit Malta for a period no longer than 90 days each 180 days out of one calendar year, as per the visa requirements stipulated for non-EU nationals.

What does Brexit mean for Malta?

Since the inception of Brexit by the UK government, more and more British nationals looking for ways to set foot in the EU indefinitely, Malta’s citizenship and residency schemes have been receiving a large interest from British citizens.

Do I need a visa for Malta after Brexit?

Technically, you don’t need a visa for Malta as a British citizen, but you are required to obtain a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) visa prior to your travels.

Can UK citizens work in Malta after Brexit?

Yes, British citizens can work in Malta, but the rules have changed. As British citizens are non EU nationals they are required to obtain a work visa or permanent residency in Malta. There is also an option for a Malta digital nomad visa, where British citizens can work for a company outside Malta while living in the country.

What are the implications of Brexit on pensions for UK retirees in Malta?

British citizens can continue receiving their UK State Pension if they move to Malta. The UK State Pension will increase annually in these locations, matching the rate paid in the UK.

What are the healthcare options for UK citizens in Malta post-Brexit?

British citizens can get medically necessary state healthcare in Malta through a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). However, it is recommended to invest in private health insurance in Malta.

How can UK nationals get EU citizenship after Brexit?

There are various ways for UK nationals to get European citizenship after Brexit’s withdrawal agreement. The fastest way would be to apply for Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program, securing a passport for you and your family in as little as 12 months.