Differences Between Malta Residency and Citizenship

If you are tired of the political climate in your country, perhaps you could move to Malta. It has a world-class healthcare and education system, and is also steeped in cultural heritage. The best part is that it has enjoys steady economic growth and political stability. Besides being a member of the European Union, Malta also belongs to the Schengen zone.

If you are hoping to acquire citizenship or residency in the country through business investment, stock market, or real estate, Malta is just right for you. However, before you can delve into either, you need to know the difference between a Malta citizenship and residency.

  1. Being a citizen of Malta, you will have a complete set of privileges, rights, responsibilities, and duties. As a resident, you will only be granted the legal right to travel to, live, or study in Malta.
  2. Where you will have to request your employer to attain a work permit for you as a resident, citizenship automatically grants you the right to work in the country.
  3. The citizenship will last for a lifetime whereas, residency cards require renewal before they expire.
  4. As a citizen, you will have the right to pass it down to your children. But, a residency cannot be transferred and has to be obtained on an individual basis.
  5. Maltese citizenship is bound by many laws and cannot be revoked as easily as a residency.
  6. There are a couple of requirements that you need to fulfil for both a citizenship and a residency. The former’s obligations extend to a minimum of 5 years only once issued. On the other hand, residency requirements might take you your entire life to satisfy.
  7. Once a citizen of Malta, you will be able to exercise voting rights but, not as a resident.

The above mentioned differences will help make your decision easier. Whether you opt for a citizenship or residency, you will have different sets of requirements to fulfil and distinct perks to take advantage of. The choice is yours.

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