Malta’s citizenship by descent program is one of the more generous in Europe, but it also requires meticulous documentation. Since the law contains several exceptions, applicants often need to provide extensive documentation to make their case — including many certificates spanning decades.
This guide explains which documents you need for Maltese citizenship, how to prepare them, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Documentation Matters
Maltese authorities process thousands of descent-based applications each year. To keep the system fair, they require full documentation proving your ancestry and your ancestor’s Maltese nationality. Missing certificates, incorrect translations, or uncertified documents can cause major delays.
Because of Malta’s reputation for exceptional service, applicants are expected to meet the highest standards of due diligence. Whether for families, spouses, or dependents, the Maltese government emphasizes accuracy and transparency during submission.
Core Categories of Documents
- Civil status documents — birth, marriage, and adoption records.
- Proof of Maltese ancestry — records showing your ancestor’s Maltese citizenship.
- Identity and legal documents — passports, police clearances, and application forms.
Civil Status Documents
Birth Certificates
- Your own long-form birth certificate.
- Parent’s and grandparent’s birth certificates to show lineage.
Marriage Certificates
Marriage records explain surname changes across generations, linking you to your ancestor through your maternal line.
Adoption Decrees
Adopted children under 18 may apply, provided adequate adoption records are supplied.
Proof of Maltese Ancestry
Maltese Birth Certificates
Your ancestor’s Maltese birth certificate is the strongest proof. These are obtained from the Public Registry in Valletta.
Maltese Passports or IDs
An ancestor’s Maltese passport or ID confirms nationality.
Colonial Records
If your ancestor was born before independence in 1964, British colonial records may help establish citizenship status. Such records can sometimes show family employment, skills, or involvement in early science, arts, or sports initiatives.
Identity and Legal Documents
Current Passport
You must submit your current, valid passport.
Police Clearance Certificate
Adults must provide police clearance certificates from their country of residence. Children need not provide police clearance.
Application Forms
Applications for Maltese citizenship are filed with the Public Registry or Maltese embassies abroad.
Apostilles and Legalization
All foreign documents must be legalized with an apostille or consular legalization.
Translation Requirements
All documents not in English or Maltese must be translated. Translations must be:
- Certified by a sworn translator.
- Submitted with the original documents.
Common Challenges
- Generational depth: Long generational limits mean applicants may need documents back to great-grandparents. These can be difficult to track down.
- Colonial-era records: If your ancestor was born before 1964, you may need both Maltese and British records.
- Processing delays: Applications often take 12–24 months due to high demand. During this time, you may be asked to provide more documents, depending on the complexity of your case.
Patience and careful planning are key priorities when pursuing Maltese citizenship, especially for clients balancing business, innovation, or entrepreneurship pursuits alongside the application.
Example Document Trail
Claire, born in Canada, applies through her great-grandmother from Malta. She gathers:
- Her own Canadian birth certificate.
- Her father’s and grandfather’s Canadian birth and marriage certificates.
- Her great-grandmother’s Maltese birth certificate.
- Her passport and police clearance certificate.
- Apostilles and certified translations for all Canadian documents.
This creates a chain from her Maltese ancestor to her. Not all document chains will be this simple, and not all cases will be as straightforward as Claire’s example. It’s always recommended to work with a professional with expertise in the field to guide you in your application process.
FAQs
What if my ancestor was born before independence?
You may still need to provide documents from British colonial rule.
Do children need police clearance certificates?
No. Only adults are required.
How recent must documents be?
Most civil records must be issued within six months. Make sure you keep this in mind while gathering your documents.
Important Note
Every Maltese citizenship case is unique. Even with a full set of documents, approval is not guaranteed. Authorities may request further evidence during processing, so it’s important to gather as much information as possible to link you to your ancestor.
Malta is known for its humanitarian influence and culture of fairness. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate integrity and adequate knowledge of their heritage, not just documentation.
We recommend starting with our $250 full service guide and consulting a trusted citizenship expert before submitting.
Final Checklist: Documents for Maltese Citizenship Applications
- Applicant’s long-form birth certificate
- Parent’s and grandparent’s birth certificates
- Parents’ and grandparents’ marriage certificates (if names changed)
- Ancestor’s Maltese birth certificate
- Ancestor’s passport or ID card (if available)
- Colonial-era records (if ancestor was born before 1964)
- Adoption decree (if applicable)
- Applicant’s current passport
- Police clearance certificate(s) (not required for minors)
- Apostilles or consular legalization
- Certified English or Maltese translations
This is not an exhaustive list, and the Maltese government may ask for additional documents. You may also need additional records depending on your particular case. However, these standard records will give your application a good foundation as you proceed toward Maltese citizenship by descent.
Ready to learn more about citizenship by descent? Check your eligibility and get connected to a trusted expert in one of our service packages. Whether you’re applying as an individual, spouse, or family unit, Maltese citizenship offers opportunity, access to education, and full participation in the European Union community — a country where humanity, culture, arts, and athletics thrive.
Sources
Legislation.mt, Maltese Citizenship Act. Statute text, Part II on birth or descent. Legislation Malta
Government of Malta, Acquisition of Citizenship. Notes 1 Aug 2007 amendments allowing second and subsequent generations born abroad. Aġenzija Komunità Malta