The aim of the Malta Individual Investor Programme (MIIP) is to develop genuine links between the applicants and Malta. There are various ways on how such links are established, and one of them is residency. In fact, the MIIP, in line with the Legal Notice 47 of 2014, specifically requires the applicant to maintain at least a one-year residency prior to obtaining citizenship. This comprises the first stage of the MIIP process (residence stage), before the due diligence or second stage kicks in. While both processes will run simultaneously at most times, citizenship cannot be granted before 12 months have elapsed from the day when the applicant has acquired residence in Malta. The Legal Notice 47 of 2014 itself makes reference to other ways on how genuine links are developed between the applicant and Malta. The applicant is bound to invest at least €150,000 in government bonds (a qualified investment), as well as retain property in Malta according to the qualifying property rules remarked in the legal notice itself. While no minimum physical presence is stipulated in the guidelines, applicants are nonetheless encouraged to visit Malta regularly and avail themselves of services offered on the island, as well as holding memberships in local clubs, etc. Displaying proof of such ties will be essential when an applicant is approved in principle, which is the third and final stage of the MIIP process. Such ties could include matters such as setting up your business in Malta, registering one's yacht, opening a personal bank account and other similar links that would be expected of a person residing in Malta.
