Malta citizenship remains one of the most generous citizenship by descent systems in Europe. For parents of Maltese heritage, a natural question is whether their children can also claim citizenship. The answer is usually yes, but the process depends on when the child was born, whether the parent was already recognized as Maltese, and how the lineage is documented.
This guide explains how Maltese nationality law treats children, the documents required, and what parents should expect when applying for Malta citizenship by ancestry on their behalf.
Why Citizenship for Children Matters
Securing citizenship for children is about giving them opportunities for life:
- EU rights: Children can live, study, and work in any European Union member state without visas or permits.
- Education: They qualify for reduced tuition fees at international schools and European universities.
- Healthcare: Malta’s system and EU reciprocal healthcare benefits become available.
- Travel: A Maltese passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries worldwide, including all 27 nations within the Schengen Area
- Heritage: Citizenship formalizes a child’s connection to Maltese culture and history.
For many parents, ensuring their children’s citizenship at the same time as their own recognition avoids complications later.
How Maltese Citizenship Passes to Children
Malta uses jus sanguinis, or the principle of descent, as the basis for citizenship.
Automatic Citizenship at Birth
- Children born after 21 September 1964 (Malta’s independence) automatically qualify if either parent was Maltese at the time of birth.
- Since reforms in 2007, both maternal and paternal lines are treated equally under the Maltese Citizenship Act.
When Parents Gain Citizenship Later
- If a parent is recognized as Maltese after the child’s birth, minors under 18 can usually be included in the parent’s application or apply shortly afterward.
- Adult children (18 and older) must file their own applications.
Adopted Children
Adopted children under 18 also qualify for Maltese citizenship once the adoption is legally recognized.
Legal Framework for Maltese Citizenship by Ancestry
Malta’s nationality law has evolved significantly under the Maltese Citizenship Act:
- 1964 Independence: Citizenship initially passed only through fathers.
- 1989 reform: Extended citizenship rights to children of Maltese mothers.
- 2007 amendment: Removed generational limits and equalized maternal and paternal descent rights.
- 2010 reform: Allowed people born abroad to Maltese parents or grandparents to apply, even if they had not registered earlier.
These changes mean children today have a clear path to citizenship, regardless of whether their Maltese parent is the mother or father.
All applications are carefully reviewed through the Community Malta Agency, which handles the vetting of applicants and ensures due diligence at every stage.
Application Process for Children
Step 1: Parents’ Status
Determine whether the parent is already recognized as Maltese. If they are applying, the child’s application can often be submitted alongside theirs, supervised by the Community Malta Agency.
Step 2: Gather the Child’s Documents
Parents must collect:
- The child’s long-form birth certificate showing both parents.
- The parent’s Maltese birth certificate or certificate of citizenship.
- Adoption decrees if relevant.
Step 3: File the Application
Applications may be submitted through:
Parents file on behalf of minors, ensuring effective communication with the Community Malta Agency throughout the process.
Step 4: Pay Fees and Provide Translations
While adults pay fees, many consulates waive or reduce fees for minors. Documents issued abroad must be apostilled and translated into English.
Step 5: Processing
Applications generally take 12–24 months. Processing speed depends on the Registry’s caseload, due diligence, and completeness of documents.
Documents Checklist
Documentation is an important part of applications for Maltese citizenship by ancestry. Here’s a checklist:
- Child’s long-form birth certificate.
- Parent’s Maltese birth certificate, passport, or certificate of citizenship.
- Parents’ marriage certificate, if applicable.
- Adoption decrees, if applicable.
- Passports for parent and child.
- Apostilles and certified translations (into English)
Dual Citizenship for Children
Since 2000, Malta has allowed dual citizenship. Children are not required to renounce their original nationality. For families abroad, this ensures that children can hold both Maltese and local citizenship – an opportunity often regarded as an exceptional service to families with strong Maltese heritage.
After approval, adult applicants must take the Oath of Allegiance to confirm their commitment to Malta, typically at the Community Malta Agency office or a Maltese consulate. Children recognized through descent are exempt from this requirement.
Common Challenges
Generational Questions
While Malta does not impose strict generational limits, parents must carefully document lineage. Missing or incomplete records can delay recognition.
Colonial-Era Records
For parents or grandparents born before independence in 1964, British colonial records may be required.
Processing Delays
Malta’s Public Registry often has a backlog, leading to waits of up to two years. Families should plan early if children are nearing adulthood.
Example Scenarios – Maltese Citizenship by Ancestry
- Born Abroad to a Maltese Parent
Sofia, a Maltese citizen, lives in Canada and gives birth in 2018. Her daughter is automatically Maltese, once the birth is registered with the Maltese authorities. - Parent Recognized Later
Joseph applies for Maltese citizenship in 2023 based on his grandparents. His 12-year-old son is included in the application and gains recognition once Joseph is approved. - Adopted Child
A Maltese couple in Australia adopts a 9-year-old. Once the adoption is legally registered, the child qualifies for Maltese citizenship.
FAQs About Maltese Citizenship by Ancestry
Do children automatically qualify if one parent is Maltese?
Yes, provided the birth is registered with Maltese authorities and reviewed by the Community Malta Agency under proper due diligence.
What if the parent gains citizenship later?
Children under 18 can usually be included. Adults must apply separately and later complete the Oath of Allegiance.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. After 18, children must apply on their own.
Do adopted children qualify for Maltese citizenship by ancestry?
Yes, if adoption is legally recognized.
Do children need to live in Malta?
No. Citizenship by descent applies regardless of residence.
How long does the process take?
12–24 months, depending on case complexity.
Applying for Maltese Citizenship for Your Child Through Ancestry
Children of Maltese citizens almost always qualify for citizenship, whether automatically at birth or through later recognition. By applying early, parents can ensure their children share in the full rights of Malta citizenship, including mobility, education, healthcare, and the chance to pass citizenship to the next generation.
The Community Malta Agency provides exceptional service throughout this process, maintaining effective communication and honoring outstanding contributions to the Maltese community.
Think your child may qualify for Maltese citizenship by ancestry? Kickstart their journey to Maltese citizenship and EU citizenship rights today by signing up and trying one of our service packages. Our team of experts will help you every step of the way.
A Legacy of Citizenship and Connection
Choosing Malta citizenship for your child is more than a legal step — it’s an investment in their future and heritage. With structured guidance, due diligence, and a commitment to family legacy, the Community Malta Agency ensures a transparent and trusted path for all Slovenian emigrants and families reconnecting with their European roots.
Ready to begin? Contact our experts today to navigate the process with confidence and join a new generation of European citizens.