Implications for Citizenship by Investment ¤

In a landmark ruling that could reshape the landscape of residency and citizenship acquisition through financial investment across Europe, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has deemed Malta’s controversial “golden passport” scheme illegal. This initiative allowed wealthy non-EU individuals to obtain Maltese citizenship in exchange for meaningful monetary contributions. The program has been heavily criticized for its potential to undermine the integrity of the EU’s internal market and pose security risks to member states. This ruling not only affects Malta’s economic framework but also raises critical questions about the legitimacy and ethics of similar initiatives in other EU nations. As stakeholders begin to evaluate the implications of this court decision, they must navigate uncertainties regarding investment-based citizenship throughout Europe.

ECJ Ruling on Malta’s Citizenship by Investment Program

The European Court has firmly opposed Malta’s contentious…