Maltese citizenship by descent

Maltese citizenship by descent refers to the acquisition of Maltese citizenship based on the principle of jus sanguinis, which means “right of blood.” This means that individuals can become Maltese citizens if they can prove a direct ancestral link to a Maltese citizen, typically through their parents, grandparents, or even further back in the family tree.

To apply for Maltese citizenship by descent, you would typically need to gather the necessary documentation to prove your lineage and meet the eligibility criteria set by the Maltese government.

5 steps to getting Maltese citizenship by descent

  1. Gather documents. Collect all the necessary documents to prove your lineage, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any other relevant records for each generation leading back to the Maltese citizen ancestor.
  2. Research eligibility. Verify if you meet the eligibility criteria for Maltese citizenship by descent. This could include requirements related to the number of generations, the time period of the lineage, or other specific criteria set by Maltese law.
  3. Submit application. Prepare and submit an application to the Maltese authorities responsible for citizenship matters. This might be the Department of Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs or another designated entity. Include all the required documents and any additional information as requested.
  4. Await processing. The processing time for citizenship applications can vary. It is important to be patient during this period. If there are any issues or additional information required, the authorities will typically contact you.
  5. Citizenship decision. Once your application is processed, you will receive a decision regarding your eligibility for Maltese citizenship. If approved, you may be required to take an oath of allegiance or complete other formalities to finalize the process.

FAQ

Who is eligible to apply for Maltese citizenship by descent?

Generally, individuals who can prove a direct ancestral link to a Maltese citizen, such as through their parents, grandparents, or further back in the family tree, may be eligible to apply for Maltese citizenship by descent.

How far back can I trace my ancestry for Maltese citizenship by descent?

When it comes to tracing your ancestry for Maltese citizenship by descent, there is no specific limitation on how far back you can go.

While there is no strict limit on the number of generations you can go back, it’s important to note that the availability and accuracy of records may vary depending on the time period and the preservation of historical documents. Older records may be more challenging to access and verify, but it’s not uncommon for individuals to successfully trace their ancestry back several generations.

What documents are required for the application?

The required documents typically include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any other relevant records for each generation in the lineage, including the Maltese citizen ancestor. You may also need to provide proof of your own identity and other supporting documentation.

Can I retain my current citizenship if I acquire Maltese citizenship by descent?

Maltese citizenship by descent does not generally require you to renounce your current citizenship. Malta allows dual citizenship, so you can usually retain your existing citizenship while becoming a Maltese citizen. However, it’s crucial to check the laws of your current country of citizenship to ensure they permit dual citizenship as well.

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