Introduction

Obtaining Maltese citizenship for individuals who have naturalized can be a complex process, especially when considering the eligibility of their children. This article aims to clarify the criteria and requirements for children to gain Maltese citizenship, particularly when the parent who naturalized was born outside of Malta.

Eligibility for Maltese Citizenship

Under the Maltese Citizenship Act Cap. 188, a child is eligible for Maltese citizenship under the following conditions:

1. Parents' Connection to Malta

For a child to be eligible for Maltese citizenship, at least one parent must be a Maltese citizen at the time of the child's birth. This parent could be the child's father, mother, or both. The citizen parent must be either:

In the context of the article, the parent who has naturalized must also meet these criteria.

2. Place of Birth

The place of birth is a critical factor in determining eligibility. The child must have been born outside of Malta for this scenario to apply. However, the requirement only mandates that the child has the connection to Malta through a citizen parent.

3. Other Parent's Status

The status of the other parent—the parent who is not a Maltese citizen—does not influence the child's eligibility for Maltese citizenship. Whether the other parent is a foreign national, an EU citizen, or a temporary resident does not affect the child's status.

Why Check the Maltese Citizenship Act Cap. 188?

Given the specific rules governing Maltese citizenship, it is paramount to consult the official Maltese Citizenship Act Cap. 188. This legal document provides the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding citizenship eligibility. Here are some key reasons to refer to the act:

1. Detailed Information

The Citizenship Act Cap. 188 offers comprehensive details, including specific provisions and conditions that might not be fully covered in general articles.

2. Legal Authority

The document is the legally recognized source of information about Maltese citizenship, ensuring that any information is correct and conflicts with local legal standards.

3. Changes Over Time

Citizenship laws and regulations are subject to change. Keeping up with amendments can be crucial, especially for individuals and families planning to gain Maltese citizenship.

Conclusion

In summary, if a Maltese citizen by naturalization and their children are born outside of Malta, the children will be eligible for Maltese citizenship if the naturalized parent is a Maltese citizen by birth, naturalization, or registration. However, it is essential to verify the parent's status against the Maltese Citizenship Act Cap. 188 for accurate and detailed guidance. Consulting the official source guarantees that all requirements are met, ensuring a smoother process for acquiring Maltese citizenship.