In a positive development for Malta, Advocate General Gerard
Hogan delivered his opinion on October 4, 2024, backing
Malta's disputed citizenship-by-investment (CBI) program.
This program, known as "Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation
for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment," allows foreign
investors to acquire Maltese (and therefore European Union (EU)
citizenship through significant financial contributions together
with stringent due diligence checks of the highest of
standards.
Key Highlights of the Opinion:
- Malta's Sovereignty Upheld: Advocate General Hogan
emphasised that while the European Commission had raised concerns
about the program, Member States retain the right to define their
own nationality laws. He acknowledged Malta's sovereignty,
asserting that the country has the legal authority to implement
such schemes as long as they comply with EU law. This is a positive
reflection on Malta's rights and abilities which aim to
maintain control over
