For families whose lives span multiple countries—whether through careers, education, business, or philanthropy—citizenship is increasingly being evaluated as a strategic, long‑term asset rather than a static, inherited status.
Residency as the starting point
European residency programmes (e.g., in Portugal, Greece, Malta, Latvia, Italy) give families legal access to a country and, through the EU, broader regional benefits such as flexible lifestyle options and educational opportunities. Residency is typically renewable and subject to policy changes, whereas citizenship is permanent and does not require renewal.
Changing view of citizenship
Research from the Altrata World Ultra‑Wealth Report shows that:
- 19.6 % of ultra‑high‑net‑worth individuals are foreign‑born.
- About 20 % of global billionaires were born outside the country where they now reside.
- 34 % hold at least one degree from a nation other than their birthplace.
The same research notes that in the 1960s only one‑third of countries permitted dual citizenship; by 2025, more than 65 % do. This regulatory shift reflects a broader move among globally mobile families to treat citizenship as part of a deliberate portfolio of rights—covering residence, banking, travel, and tax obligations—assembled jurisdiction by jurisdiction.
When citizenship becomes a practical issue
For most internationally mobile families, residency alone provides sufficient flexibility. However, when ties to a particular jurisdiction deepen—through sustained business activity, philanthropy, long‑term residence, or civic contributions—citizenship may be considered to secure long‑term stability and continuity across generations.
Discretionary citizenship schemes are designed for a small subset of individuals whose profiles and contributions merit special consideration. These programmes are evaluated case‑by‑case, without fixed criteria or guaranteed outcomes.
Example: Malta’s Citizenship by Merit
- Legislation: Malta introduced a “Citizenship by Merit” pathway in 2017.
- 2025 EU changes: The previous Maltese citizenship framework was repealed; the current scheme operates fully at the discretion of Maltese authorities.
- Assessment: Each applicant is evaluated individually under Maltese law, focusing on the applicant’s overall contribution rather than a transactional investment. No predetermined eligibility thresholds exist.
The Maltese approach exemplifies the principle that discretionary citizenship is granted based on “not just how much, but to what end,” emphasizing substantive contribution over financial input.
Broader implications
Citizenship does not replace residency, but for families with complex, multi‑jurisdictional lives, it adds a layer of permanence that can enhance stability, belonging, and intergenerational continuity. Early, holistic consideration of legal status—treating citizenship alongside other elements of international planning—helps families align their mobility strategies with long‑term objectives.
Source article: www.globalcitizensolutions.com
