Malta has officially tied for 5th place in the Nomad Passport Index 2025, sharing the spot with Italy in a global ranking of the world's most powerful passports. This annual index evaluates passports not just on visa-free access, but on a holistic blend of five key factors: visa-free travel, tax obligations, personal freedom, global perception, and the ability to hold dual citizenship. This approach offers a broader picture of what makes a passport truly powerful—not just for tourism, but for global living, business, and wealth planning.
Ireland clinched the top position for the first time and European nations once again dominated the top 10, with countries like Switzerland, Luxembourg, Sweden, and Malta earning high rankings.
Why Malta's Passport Is Among the Most Coveted in the World
Malta's inclusion in the top five reflects the impressive global reach and flexibility its passport provides. Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 185 countries, including the US, UK, and all European countries. But the appeal runs much deeper than mobility alone.
Malta is known for its political stability, high standard of living, and strong regulatory system, making it a highly attractive place to live or invest in. As an EU member state, Maltese passport holders benefit from full EU rights, including the freedom to live, work, and study in any other EU country. The country also scores high in terms of personal freedom and quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Importantly, Malta imposes no tax on foreign-sourced income not remitted to the country, a key factor for global entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals who value tax efficiency. Malta also does not tax its citizens on a world-wide basis and other taxes such as inheritance tax, wealth tax and death tax are not imposed. Combine this with the nation's welcoming stance on dual citizenship and Malta emerges as a strategic choice for anyone seeking both freedom and flexibility in a second passport.
The island nation has steadily grown in reputation over the past decade, positioning itself as a bridge between Europe and Africa, while cultivating a pro-business environment backed by innovation and a well-regulated financial sector.
A Gateway Through Investment: The MEIN Programme
Malta's strong ranking is also closely tied to its Malta Exceptional Investment Naturalisation (MEIN) programme, which allows individuals of exceptional standing to obtain citizenship by contributing to the country's economic development. Through a combination of investment, donation, and residency, the MEIN programme offers a clear pathway to citizenship for those who meet its due diligence standards.
Unlike many traditional investment migration routes, MEIN emphasises integration and long-term value, requiring applicants to first hold residency in Malta for 12 months prior to naturalisation. This model ensures that new citizens have a genuine connection to the country, while also upholding the integrity of the Maltese passport on the global stage.
For investors and families looking for a secure, globally respected citizenship option, the MEIN route represents a compelling opportunity—not just for mobility, but for access to the European lifestyle and long-term security.
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