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The Maltese Exceptional Investment Naturalization (MEIN) program is the only fast-track route to EU citizenship by investment available today. This program offers a secure pathway for U.S. citizens wanting to move to Malta from the USA, providing full EU rights within as little as 12 months.

What Is the MEIN Program?

The MEIN program allows non-EU nationals, including Americans, to acquire Maltese citizenship by contributing to Malta’s economy and establishing genuine ties to the country. It offers U.S. citizens the chance to live, work, and study across the EU while benefiting from visa-free travel to over 180 countries. Applicants must undergo a rigorous due diligence process conducted by the Community Malta Agency, ensuring only reputable individuals are granted citizenship.

Key Requirements for U.S. Citizens

To qualify for the MEIN program, U.S. citizens must meet the following financial and residency requirements:

1. Contribution to Malta’s National Development Fund:
€600,000 for a standard residency period of 36 months.
€750,000 for an expedited residency period of 12 months.
An additional €50,000 for each dependent.

2. Real Estate Requirement:
Purchase property valued at a minimum of €750,000 and hold it for at least five years.
Lease a property with a minimum annual rent of €16,000 for a five-year period.

3. Philanthropic Donation:
A mandatory €10,000 donation to a registered Maltese charity.

4. Residency Requirement:
Applicants must reside in Malta for at least 12 or 36 months, depending on their chosen pathway, and demonstrate genuine links to the country.

Common Questions from U.S. Citizens about Moving to Malta

Can Americans buy property in Malta? Yes. U.S. citizens can purchase property in Malta without restrictions. However, owning property does not automatically grant residency or citizenship.

Is dual citizenship allowed for U.S. citizens in Malta? Yes. The United States permits dual citizenship, meaning U.S. citizens can hold both U.S. and Maltese passports.

How long does the Maltese citizenship process take? The process can be completed within 12 months for the expedited pathway or 36 months for the standard pathway, depending on the applicant’s chosen investment route.

What is the cost of moving to Malta as an American? The MEIN program requires significant financial contributions, including a minimum of €600,000 for the National Development Fund and additional real estate or rental commitments. It’s essential to budget for legal and administrative fees as well.

Lancier helps Americans moving to Malta throughout the entire relocation process.

Turkey’s Citizenship-by-Investment Program offers a structured path for Americans looking to move to Turkey. In order to obtain citizenship one of the below investments must be made in addition to the applicant having a Turquoise card (a type of Turkish residence permit).

The investment routes available are the following:

Option A) Buy property worth at least USD 400,000, with a title deed restriction preventing resale for three years. This investment is verified by the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization.

Option B) A minimum investment of USD 500,000 in fixed capital is required, as certified by the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

Option C) Depositing at least USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank, with the condition of not withdrawing for three years, is mandated. The Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency oversees this requirement.

Option D) Purchasing government bonds worth a minimum of USD 500,000, with a three-year non-sale condition, is stipulated. This is regulated by the Ministry of Treasury and Finance.

Option E) Investing at least USD 500,000 in real estate or venture capital investment fund shares, with a three-year holding period, is required. The Capital Markets Board of Turkey certifies this investment.

Lancier helps Americans moving to Turkey throughout the entire relocation process.

For Americans looking to move to Europe, the Moldova Citizenship-by-Investment program could be a viable long-term solution. Though not an EU country, Moldova has applied for EU membership and could potentially join the Union by 2030. This program is therefore more of a long-term investment. To qualify for it, applicants must make a non-refundable charitable contribution to the Public Sustainable Development Fund of Moldova (Public Investment Fund). It’s important to note that applicants must also go through stringent background and due diligence checks before they can be accepted. Once accepted however, they are ultimately granted citizenship.

The amounts required depends on the number of applicants as following:

1) EUR 100,000 for a single applicant

2) EUR 115,000 for a couple

3) EUR 145,000 for a family of four

4) EUR 155,000 for family of five or more

Along with the above there are also a post-approval government fee of EUR 35,000 per application. In addition, other government fees in the amounts of EUR 5,000 for the main applicant, EUR 2,500 for a spouse, EUR 1,000 for a child aged 0 to 15 years, EUR 2,500 for a dependent child aged 16 to 29 years, and EUR 5,000 for a dependent parent — of the main applicant or of the spouse — who is 55 years of age or older, must also be paid.

Lancier helps Americans looking to relocate to Moldova throughout the entire process.

Your ExperienceWith Lancier

Moving abroad is more than a checklist, it’s about creating a life that truly fits you and your family. Our 360° approach ensures every detail comes together as part of a bigger picture, so you can focus on what excites you most about this new chapter.

Tailor Made for Americans: Moving abroad as a U.S. citizen comes with its own set of unique challenges. From FATCA & FBAR compliance to understanding European tax regimes. We take care of the complex details so you don’t have to worry about making mistakes that could cost you later down the road.

One Stop Solution: Relocation often means working with multiple specialists, each focused on their piece of the puzzle. Our approach brings everything under one roof, aligning your financial, legal and lifestyle goals to eliminate inefficiencies and hidden costs so that every part of the process supports your bigger picture.

Everything Works In Harmony: Each part of your relocation impacts the other. We take a bird’s eye view approach, ensuring that your decisions today support your goals for tomorrow. It’s about seeing the whole picture and making sure every choice moves you closer to the life you envision.

Bridging the Gap: Europe can feel like a maze of different rules, languages and systems. We work with leading professionals in each country, translating their output into actionable steps that align with your priorities. This way, every detail is planned with clarity and purpose.

More Than a Move: The process doesn’t end when you unpack your boxes. Adjusting to a new country means adapting to a new culture, forming new connections and building a life that feels meaningful. We go beyond the scope of traditional relocation services to ensure you thrive in your new environment. From helping your kids find the right schools to connecting you with the local community.

one.

Understanding your ambition

The first step in working with us is an introductory call where you’ll share your goals for moving to Europe. We’ll create a tailored profile based on your budget, destination, visa options, lifestyle preferences, and housing needs—whether renting or buying. After the call, you’ll receive a customized plan and price estimate, ensuring a clear path forward.

three.

Implementing & Emerging

Once you’re onboard, you’ll work closely with our team to ensure a smooth and secure transition into your new life. And it doesn’t stop there, we’re with you every step of the way. We encurage you to join our exclusive community events across Europe, where you can connect with others and build your local community of likeminded people.