Malta - Passport & Nationality - Maltese Citizenship by Descent
A Maltese citizen born in Malta; or
A Maltese citizen by registration or naturalisation
Women could not pass on their Maltese citizenship unless they were unmarried.
From 1 August 1989, children born outside Malta to Maltese born or naturalised mothers acquired Maltese citizenship by descent automatically.
From 10 February 2000, a person born outside Malta between 21 September 1964 and 31 July 1989 to a Maltese born or naturalised mother may apply for Maltese citizenship by registration.
Changes to the Maltese Citizenship Act in 2007
Due to amendments to the Maltese Citizenship Act which came into force on 1 August 2007, it is now possible for all persons of Maltese descent to obtain Maltese citizenship by registration. (*)
A person only has to provide documentary evidence such as birth, marriage & death certificates to be registered as a citizen. This documentation must show direct descent from an ancestor born in Malta of a parent who was also born in Malta. If a person has parents, grandparents, etc. that are alive and are also direct descendants themselves, they will also have to make applications (direct line cannot be broken).
The registration procedure may take place at any Maltese Embassy, High Commission, Consulate, or at the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs in Malta. Residence in Malta is not required