Malta clarifies its citizenship scheme

Representatives of the European Commission and of the Government of Malta met here Wednesday to discuss the issue of Malta's scheme to sell its citizenship to foreigners. The Maltese representatives presented their intentions regarding further amendments to the regulations issued under the Maltese Citizenship Act with a view to clarify that this Programme will confer full rights, responsibilities and a full citizenship status, said an European Commission statement. The amendments include genuine links to Malta through the introduction of an effective residence status in Malta prior to the possibility to acquire Maltese citizenship. No certificate of naturalisation will be issued unless the applicant provides proof that he/she has resided in Malta for a period of at least 12 months immediately preceding the day of issuing of the certificate of naturalisation. The EU's executive body welcomed the announced amendments concerning the residence requirement. The EU had strongly criticised Malta's scheme to sell its passports for 650, 000 euros to foreigners without the condition of residency.