The end of citizenship for sale in the EU: what the Malta ruling means for strategic global citizens

On April 29, 2025, the European Court of Justice decisively closed the chapter on citizenship-by-investment programs within the European Union. Malta’s “golden passport” scheme—the last of its kind in the EU—was found to violate the core principles of Union law.

The court ruled that citizenship must be grounded in genuine ties to a member state—such as residency, integration, or lasting presence—and not simply acquired through financial transactions. Malta has been ordered to dismantle its program without delay.

For discerning global citizens, this development signals an evolution in how mobility, wealth preservation, and future positioning strategies must be structured within Europe.

What changes—and what remains

It’s important to clarify that this ruling targets citizenship-by-investment specifically—not residency-by-investment. Programs such as the Golden Visas offered by Portugal, Italy, and Greece continue to operate legally and remain unaffected by the European Court’s decision. These programs are rooted in residency and integration, not the direct purchase of citizenship, and as such, they have not been challenged or curtailed by EU legislation.

Existing holders of Maltese citizenship through investment are unlikely to face blanket revocation. EU law upholds the principle of legal certainty, protecting individuals who obtained citizenship in good faith unless fraud or misrepresentation is proven in individual cases.

However, enhanced scrutiny is expected. Member states and EU institutions may apply greater diligence to ensure that existing and future applicants demonstrate genuine ties beyond financial investment.

For investors considering European strategies, the pathway forward will increasingly emphasize long-term positioning—through compliant residency routes and genuine engagement with the chosen jurisdiction.

A shift toward strategic residency planning

The ruling reinforces a broader truth: future-proofed global access is best achieved through thoughtful, structured engagement with jurisdictions offering stable, residency-led mobility options.

Citizenship-by-investment as a model has effectively ended in the EU. Strategic investors must now pursue residency-first approaches that align with evolving legal standards.

Golden Visa programs remain viable but are under increasing oversight. Applicants must demonstrate meaningful connections—whether through physical presence, integration steps, or contribution to local economies.

Key markets like Portugal, Italy, and Greece continue to offer attractive pathways. With the right advisory and structure, these programs provide compliant access to European mobility and long-term planning advantages.

Speed and opportunism are giving way to discretion, foresight, and legal clarity. Those who act strategically today will secure the most enduring advantages tomorrow.

I design bespoke mobility and wealth strategies for private clients who prioritize foresight, discretion, and control.

If you are considering your next global move, now is the moment to align your strategy with the new European landscape.

Request a private consultation to structure a compliant, future-facing residency and mobility plan - here.