Patricia Casaburi
A Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI) lawyer specializes in helping applicants obtain citizenship through the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services (CES) program. They guide you through legal requirements, including real estate investment, government contributions, and donations.
A qualified lawyer ensures you meet the strict CES eligibility criteria and supports you through the due diligence process. They also communicate with the Community Malta Agency and help with every part of the application, including background checks and property acquisition.
This article explains why a CBI lawyer is important, how they help with real estate, guide you through due diligence, and manage your application. This is what to expect:
⚠️ ECJ Ruled Against Malta's Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN)
On April 29, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled against Malta's Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program. The Commission stated that citizenship requires more than financial investment and must reflect a genuine link to the EU country. Malta responded that citizenship decisions fall under national authority, supported by international law and EU treaties.
What does this mean for the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program?
There is no information on what will happen with ongoing or future applications. As soon as new details are available, more updates will be provided. For more details, read our article on the ECJ ruling against Malta’s MEIN program.
Malta MEIN Reform: Draft law proposes citizenship by merit
On 16 July 2025, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri announced that Malta will introduce a reformed citizenship framework in response to a European court ruling against its previous investor citizenship scheme.
The new draft law shifts to merit-based citizenship for individuals who offer exceptional services or contributions to Malta or humanity.
Eligible contributions may span science, innovation, arts, culture, entrepreneurship, and other sectors aligned with Malta’s Vision 2050 strategy. It is important to note that the law is still a draft and has not yet been finalized
Eight reasons to get a Malta Citizenship by Investment Lawyer
1. Understanding the process
The Malta Citizenship by Investment program is changing after the ECJ ruling, moving toward a new system based on exceptional services instead of financial contributions. As it transitions, a lawyer can help you meet the legal requirements and understand local rules.
As João Pacheco Gonçalves, the Head of Institutional Client Relations at Global Citizen Solutions, points out, “In reality, it can be simple with the right partner. Companies like Global Citizen Solutions make the process straightforward. It’s really about having someone guide you step by step, holding your hand through it. That changes everything.”
2. Choosing the right property
A lawyer ensures the property you choose meets investment requirements and is free of legal issues. Real estate is a stable asset, and a Malta Golden Visa lawyer can help you find a valuable option that aligns with the program rules.
As Gonçalo Peixoto, Head of Real Estate at Global Citizen Solutions, says, “… real estate reveals itself as a very stable asset on which to park your money. When considering the downside, there’s usually not much that can affect it, as there’s a lot of demand for it across social classes, and historically speaking, it returns average and stable returns over the years.”
3. Protecting your interests
When you’re ready to buy, the lawyer will review and draft the contract to make sure it protects you. This includes things like payment plans and conditions in case issues arise. They ensure the contract has clauses to protect you if something goes wrong before the sale is complete.
4. Ensuring the property meets CBI criteria
The lawyer makes sure your property meets all requirements for the Malta CES program, like being for personal use and meeting the minimum value. They explain the rule that you must keep the property for five years and guide you on what happens if you want to sell it later.
5. Handling legal documents and applications
A lawyer helps you gather and submit all the necessary documents, like background checks and proof of property investment, to Malta’s authorities. They act as a link between you and the Community Malta Agency, to ensure your application is processed smoothly.
6. Background checks
Malta conducts strict background checks on applicants. The lawyer helps you prepare the right documents and ensures your application passes without delays. They help you make sure that your financial and personal information is in order, avoiding issues during the vetting process.
7. Tax and financial advice
The lawyer explains how obtaining citizenship and buying property in Malta affects your tax situation, both in Malta and in your home country. They also help you manage your financial obligations and suggest ways to minimize your tax burden.
8. Post-approval support
After approval, the lawyer will assist you in finalizing the process, including obtaining your Malta passport and attending the citizenship ceremony. They continue to advise you on issues like property taxes and rental income even after you get your citizenship.
To learn more about the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program
7 Steps a Malta Citizenship by Investment Lawyer Can Help with Malta Real Estate
Here is a step-by-step process of how a Malta Citizenship by Investment lawyer can help you through the real estate acquisition process.
- Step 1: Select property and agree on price/conditions: The lawyer helps you identify and select the right property (within the CBI investment requirement). They also assist in negotiating the price and agreeing on conditions with the seller.
- Step 2: Sign the PoS document: The lawyer ensures the Promise of Sale (PoS) document is drafted and signed. It’s legally binding, with a validity period of 3 to 6 months (depending on the CBI applicant type).
- Step 3: Pay 10% deposit: The buyer pays a 10% deposit, held by the notary. If the buyer fails to complete the transaction without valid legal reason, this deposit is forfeited to the seller. The lawyer ensures that the deposit is handled correctly and legally.
- Step 4: Conduct property checks: The lawyer coordinates with the notary to perform due diligence on the property. This includes checking the property’s title and applying for an Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit if needed. An AIP permit is a government-issued permit for non-EU nationals wishing to live and work in Malta.
- Step 5: Obtain AIP permit and prepare Final Deed: If the AIP permit is required (for non-EU nationals), the lawyer ensures it is obtained. They also work with the notary to confirm the property’s title and prepare the Final Deed of Sale.
- Step 6: Settle remaining balance and sign Final Deed: The lawyer ensures that the buyer pays the remaining balance, stamp duty, and legal fees. They then assist with signing the Final Deed, making it legally binding.
- Step 7: Transfer property possession: The lawyer helps transfer the property possession to the buyer after signing the Final Deed. This marks the official transfer of ownership.
Estimated Costs for a Malta Citizenship by Investment Lawyer
These costs are estimates and can differ based on the complexity of the application and the lawyer’s fees. However, this is an average overview of the services that need to be paid for.
Service | Estimated Cost | Details |
Initial Consultation | €200 - €500 | A one-time fee for discussing eligibility and outlining the process. |
Full Application Support (Legal Fees) | €15,000 - €30,000 | Covers legal assistance with document preparation, submission, and compliance. |
Due Diligence Fees | €5,000 - €10,000 | Fees for handling due diligence checks, including background and source of funds verification. |
Property Legal Advice | €1,500 - €3,000 | Fees for assistance with property transactions (if applicable), such as contract review and title checks. |
Ongoing Legal Support and Updates | €2,000 - €5,000 annually | Continued legal support during the application process and after approval. |
Government Fees & Miscellaneous Costs | Variable | Includes costs like application fees, stamp duty, and notary fees. |
Other Programs a Malta Immigration Lawyer can Help With
With recent changes following the ECJ ruling on Malta’s Citizenship by Investment Programme, a Malta immigration lawyer can guide you through other valuable residency options that still offer significant advantages. These include access to Malta’s stable political climate, the favorable Maltese tax system, and over 70 double taxation agreements that support international investors and retirees.
Below are programs a Malta immigration lawyer can help you navigate:
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP): The Malta Residency by Investment program allows non-EU nationals to obtain Maltese residency through property rental minimum €14,000 annually or purchase €375,000+, a government contribution of €37,000, a €2,000 donation to a local NGO, health insurance, and a clean criminal record, with legal support available for eligibility checks, document preparation, application filing, and due diligence.
Malta Digital Nomad Visa: The Malta Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers employed by non-Maltese companies or those who own a foreign business, requiring a minimum annual income of €42,000, health insurance, a valid passport, and proof of accommodation, with legal assistance helpful for verifying income, translating documents, reviewing rental agreements, and communicating with the Residency Malta Agency.
Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP): The Malta Global Residence Program offers residency to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who rent €8,750–€9,600/year or buy €220,000–€275,000+ property in Malta, with a 15% flat tax rate on foreign income remitted to the country, and lawyers can help with tax planning, property compliance, and registering with Malta’s Inland Revenue Department.
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 the Malta Citizenship by Investment Lawyer
What does a Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI) lawyer do?
A CBI lawyer guides applicants through the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services (CES) process. They handle paperwork, ensure compliance with legal requirements, assist with due diligence, and liaise with the Community Malta Agency.
Why do I need a lawyer for the Malta CES application?
The process is complex and involves strict due diligence. A lawyer ensures that your application meets all legal and financial requirements, reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
How does a CBI lawyer help with due diligence?
They review your financial history, ensure all documents are correct, and address any potential red flags before submission, helping to meet Malta’s high vetting standards.
Can a lawyer assist with real estate investment for the application?
Yes, they help you choose qualifying properties, review contracts, and ensure compliance with Malta’s property rules, whether you’re buying or renting.
How much does it cost to hire a Malta CBI lawyer?
Legal fees vary but typically range from €10,000 to €30,000, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of your case.
What is the role of the Community Malta Agency (CMA)?
CMA is the government body that oversees and processes CES applications. A lawyer ensures all submissions meet CMA’s strict requirements.
How long does the CES application take with legal assistance?
With proper legal guidance, the process can take between 12 and 18 months, depending on the investment route chosen and document processing times.
Can a lawyer help if my application is rejected?
Yes, they can review the reasons for rejection, address legal concerns, and, if possible, assist in reapplying or appealing the decision.
