INTRODUCTION

Studying in Malta can be an exciting adventure, but what if you want to stay longer? Let’s explore how you can turn your student experience into a path to Maltese citizenship.

Understanding the Basics

Education doesn’t automatically make you a citizen. However, it can be a great starting point for your journey towards citizenship.

The 5-Year Rule

The main way to get citizenship after studying is through naturalization. Here’s what you need to know:

• You must live in Malta for at least 5 years
• One of those years must be right before you apply
• Your time as a student counts towards this 5-year period

Citizenship in Malta After Study

Congratulations if you completed your studies in Malta! If you’ve enjoyed your time there and want to stay longer, you can explore the path to Maltese citizenship. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your citizenship in Malta..

Extend Your Stay After Studying

Once your student visa is about to expire, you cannot remain in Malta without the proper authorization. To extend your stay, follow these steps:

1. Apply for a Work Permit: Before your student visa ends, you need to secure a work permit. This is essential if you plan to work in Malta.
2. Find Employment: Start looking for a job that matches your qualifications. Once you receive a job offer, your employer will typically assist you with the work permit application.
3. Submit the Application: Your employer will submit the Single Permit application to Identity Malta. This permit allows you to live and work in Malta legally.
4. Gather Required Documents: You will need to provide several documents, including:

• A valid passport
• An employment contract
• Proof of qualifications (like diplomas or degrees)
• Medical insurance coverage

The processing time for the Single Permit can take about 2-3 months, so it’s important to start this process early.

Start Your 5-Year Residency Countdown

To become a Maltese citizen, you must live in Malta for at least five years. Here’s how this works:

1. Count Your Time as a Student: The time you spent studying in Malta counts towards the five-year residency requirement.
2. Maintain Continuous Residence: You need to reside continuously in Malta for the last year before applying for citizenship. Make sure to keep track of your residency dates and any relevant documentation.

Integrate into Maltese Society

While living and working in Malta, it’s important to integrate into the local community:

1. Learn the Language: Consider learning Maltese or improving your English skills, as language proficiency is often required for citizenship applications.
2. Engage with the Community: Get involved in local activities or volunteer opportunities. This will help you build connections and demonstrate your commitment to living in Malta.
3. Maintain a Clean Record: Ensure that you avoid any legal troubles during your stay, as a clean criminal record is essential for citizenship eligibility.

Prepare Your Citizenship Application

As you approach the five-year mark, begin preparing your citizenship application:

1. Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including:

• Proof of continuous residence (like rental agreements and utility bills)
• Evidence of financial stability (such as pay slips or bank statements)
• A language proficiency certificate (in Maltese or English)
• Two Maltese citizens who can vouch for your character

Complete the Application Form: Obtain and fill out the citizenship application form from Identity Malta.

Submit Your Citizenship Application

Once you have all your documents ready, it’s time to submit your application:

1. Compile Your Documents: Ensure that all required documents are complete and organized.
2. Pay the Application Fee: There is usually a fee associated with submitting your citizenship application.
3. Submit Your Application: Send your completed application along with all supporting documents to the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs.

Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, be prepared for some waiting:

1. Processing Time: Citizenship applications can take several months to process, so patience is key.
2. Possible Interview: You may be called in for an interview as part of the evaluation process.
3. Study Maltese Culture: Use this waiting period to learn more about Maltese history and culture, which may be beneficial during your interview.

Become a Maltese Citizen

If your application is successful, congratulations! Here’s what happens next:

1. Oath of Allegiance: You will receive an invitation to take the Oath of Allegiance at a citizenship ceremony.
2. Receive Your Certificate: After taking the oath, you will be granted a Certificate of Naturalization and a Maltese passport.
3. Celebrate Your New Status: Enjoy being a citizen of Malta and all the rights and privileges that come with it!

Getting citizenship in Malta after studying takes time and dedication, but it is achievable if you follow these steps carefully. Stay organized, keep track of important dates, and immerse yourself in Maltese culture along the way!

References:

• Identity Malta Agency: Identity Malta
• JobsPlus (for work permits): JobsPlus