Holding a Maltese passport provides unparalleled freedom of movement across Europe, allowing its citizens to live, work, and travel seamlessly across the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland. But what does this actually mean, and why is it significant?
Free Movement Within the European Union
EU Treaty Rights are rights granted to European Union citizens and their family members under Directive 2004/38/EC. As Malta has been the Member of the EU since 2024, Maltese citizens and their family members have the right to move freely across all 27 EU member states, including:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
This Directive grants:
- Short-term residence: EU citizens can stay in any EU country for up to three months with only a valid passport or identity card.
- Long-term residence: Those wishing to stay longer than three months must meet certain conditions based on their status (e.g., employment, self-employment, study, or self-sufficiency) and comply with administrative requirements.
- Permanent residence: After five years of continuous legal residence in another EU country, EU citizens gain the right to permanent residency, even with temporary absences for study, work, or illness.
- Family members: Immediate family members of EU citizens also benefit from the right to join or accompany them in any EU country, subject to specific conditions.
Beyond the EU: Access to the EEA
In addition to the EU, Maltese passport holders enjoy freedom of movement within the European Economic Area (EEA), which brings together the EU countries plus three non-EU states—Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
The EEA Agreement ensures that these nations participate in the EU’s single market under the same fundamental principles, including the four freedoms—the free movement of goods, capital, services, and persons. This means that Maltese citizens can travel, reside, and work in these EEA countries under similar conditions to those in EU member states.
Switzerland: A Special Relationship with the EU
Although Switzerland is not part of the EU or EEA, it has established strong bilateral agreements with the European Union, covering various sectors, including freedom of movement. Swiss-EU relations are governed by over 120 agreements, including the “Bilateral I” agreements signed in 1999 and entered into force in 2002, which facilitate mutual market access and allow EU citizens—including Maltese nationals—the right to live and work in Switzerland under specific conditions.
Why Does This Matter?
The ability to move, work, and reside freely across 31 European countries provides a distinct advantage for Maltese passport holders. Whether for business, career opportunities, education, or quality of life, the unrestricted access offered by Malta’s EU membership extends far beyond its borders. This mobility makes Malta an attractive option for investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking international opportunities.
With global mobility becoming increasingly valuable, the benefits of holding a Maltese passport continue to be a strong incentive for individuals looking to expand their horizons within Europe and beyond.
Would you like to learn more about obtaining Maltese citizenship? We will be glad to provide further information. Contact Megan Hamilton at mhamilton@valtd.com
