Living in Malta as an expat

Malta's breathtaking island landscapes, centuries-old architecture and quality of life have lured many an expat to the country's sunny shores ­– whether to find work or spend their retirement lounging on the beach.

Working in Malta

Located south of Italy, east of Tunisia, and north of Libya, Malta is strategically located between Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This makes it a fantastic base for multinational businesses.

The manufacturing, tourism, film, online gaming, and financial services sectors are some of the country’s biggest employers, drawing expats from the EU and beyond.

Working in Malta

Maltese culture

English is the official language of Malta, along with Maltese. Ninety percent of the population is fluent in English, while many locals also speak Italian. Speaking a local language is hugely beneficial, both professionally and personally.

Maltese locals are known for being welcoming and hospitable, though it can take some time to truly become friends. If you're invited to a social event, make sure to attend. With consistent effort, you're sure to find some like-minded people.

Local Culture in Malta

Finding accommodation in Malta

There's plenty of high-quality accommodation available in Malta, though finding something suitable during the high season can be difficult due to demand. A wide variety of charming accommodation types can be found here, from countryside cottages to traditional Maltese houses of character.

Finding Accommodation in Malta

Cost of living in Malta

The cost of living in Malta is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Accommodation outside the city centres is reasonably priced, though this is changing owing to Malta’s growing expat population. 

Education will likely be the highest expense expat parents will face, as international schools can be quite steep. Fortunately, groceries and dining out are fairly inexpensive, provided expats stick with local products.

Cost of Living in Malta

Living in Malta with children

Malta is an ideal destination for raising children. The island’s small-town feel combined with its strong family values and the plethora of excellent healthcare and schooling options makes it perfect for expat families. 

There is also plenty for expat families with children to do in their leisure time. Thanks to the island country’s abundance of picturesque green spaces and convenient access to the Pacific Ocean, sports and outdoor activities are sure to become expats' favourite pastimes. There are also plenty of historical sites, aquariums, and museums to explore.

Healthcare in Malta

Finding a school in Malta

The island country offers free public education for all. Most state schools teach in Maltese, while the independent and church schools offer English-language instruction at a lower cost than international schools. 

On the other hand, international schools can be a great option for expat parents who want their children to continue in their home country’s curriculum or learn a global syllabus such as the International Baccalaureate.

Education and Schools in Malta

Climate in Malta

Malta is blessed with warm weather all year round. Its Mediterranean climate ensures that summers are hot and dry, while winter is mild with little rainfall. Perhaps the only downside to Malta’s weather is the Sirocco winds that may bring unseasonably hot temperatures during the summer months. 

Climate Charts for Malta

With so much to love about Malta, many expats end up staying far longer than they intended. The relaxed lifestyle, rich culture and friendly locals make for a pleasant and laid-back life.

Fast facts

Population: Around 545,000

Capital city: Valletta

Neighbouring countries: Malta is an island nation and shares no physical borders with any other country, but is located south of the Italian island of Sicily, east of Tunisia and north of Libya.

Geography: Malta is an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. It has three inhabited islands: the main island and the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino. 

Political system: Unitary constitutional parliamentary republic

Major religion: Roman Catholicism

Main languages: Maltese and English

Currency: Malta's currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Opening a bank account in Malta is relatively easy for expats, though there is a fair amount of bureaucracy involved.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in Malta. Between 5 and 10 percent is common if a service charge isn't already included.

Time: GMT+1 (GMT+2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Flat three-pin plugs are standard.

Internet domain: .mt

International dialling code: +356

Emergency contacts: 112

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road. Malta has an established transport network consisting of buses.

Business culture in Malta

Communication

Malta has a well-educated population, and all schools teach English. Nearly everyone speaks Maltese and English, and many also speak additional languages such as French and Italian.

English is the official business language, and most documents, including legal, commercial and official correspondence, are in English, which limits communication barriers for most expats.

Time

Businesspeople in Malta expect prompt service and correspondence, so it's important to acknowledge emails and phone calls quickly. That said, you'll need to be patient – doing business in Malta takes time, usually due to restrictions and regulations.

Traditional values

Malta is a conservative and family-orientated country. Although no longer the case, it was once tradition for women to resign after getting married because men were supposed to provide for their families while women looked after the home. Today, women receive equal treatment in business, and more women are landing senior management positions.

This patriarchal, family-focused view still affects business in Malta. Traditional notions of company loyalty and a family atmosphere persist, especially in small businesses, making for a pleasant work environment but complicating resignations and job changes.

Titles

You should acknowledge Maltese associates by using their personal or professional titles (Mr, Mrs, Dr). Once you've established a good working relationship with them, you can move to a first-name basis.

Dos and don’ts of business in Malta

• Do acknowledge the receipt of emails and phone calls
• Do maintain eye contact and be direct
• Do address those in a senior position formally
• Don’t be late for appointments or meetings
• Don’t dress casually for business meetings

In addition to abundant sunshine and warm winters, Malta's easy banking and relatively low taxes make it popular among expats. The island country is renowned for its advanced financial sector and is also a fantastic offshore banking destination.

Money in Malta

The Maltese currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents.

• Notes: EUR 5, EUR 10, EUR 20, EUR 50, EUR 100, EUR 200 and EUR 500
• Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents; EUR 1 and EUR 2

Banking in Malta

The banking system in Malta is diverse and offers a wide range of services. Some of the most popular banks in the country include the Bank of Valletta (BOV), APS Bank, and Lombard Bank. You can also find international banks like HSBC and FIMBank, making it easy for expats with an existing account to access local financial services. Although working hours differ between different banks, most are open from 08.30am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday, with reduced hours on Saturdays.

Opening a bank account

Most Maltese banks will open an account for new arrivals without finalised residency, even though banks with no foreign interests are likely to take longer. International banks are accustomed to the workings of expat finances. Choosing an account with fewer services can expedite the process.

If you need banking access as soon as you arrive, you will have to research the processes and requirements ahead of time. There is a lot of inconsistency in documentation requirements – not only between banks, but sometimes even between individual branches of the same bank.

Generally speaking, expats will need a deposit, their passport, proof of address and a reference from their previous bank to open a Maltese account. It's always best to double-check with the relevant branch ahead of time.

ATMs and credit cards

ATMs are available all over the islands, near retail shops and restaurants. Visa, Mastercard and American Express are widely accepted, but expats who want to use a debit card should ensure it has international authorisation.

Taxes in Malta

Malta's tax planning and asset protection policies are major drawcards for many expats, but the benefits vary widely. In general, income tax in Malta is fairly low, ranging from zero to 35 percent. 

You are considered a tax resident in Malta if you spend 183 days or more in the country, which means you may be taxed on your worldwide income. Those who are non-residents are only taxed on their Maltese income. 

Expats who fulfil certain conditions – including owning or renting a property within a specific threshold or those working in the gaming, aviation or finance sectors– may be eligible for a much lower tax rate on their income.

Malta is in a rather unique situation concerning living off savings, as capital gains can be remitted free of tax. We recommend enlisting the services of a reputable wealth manager for navigating the sometimes tricky details of finances and retirement in Malta.

Malta is a Schengen member state, meaning citizens from a number of countries can enter for short stays without applying for a visa. Those who require a Schengen visa to enter Malta should fill in an application from a diplomatic mission or official website and submit the necessary documents and biometrics.

Tourist visas for Malta

Expats from non-Schengen countries who want to visit Malta will have to obtain a tourist visa in advance.

Tourist visas are valid for one or multiple entries of up to 90 days during a 180-day period. Applicants must submit proof of travel insurance, adequate funds and onward travel along with a letter of invitation. 

They will also need to show evidence that they've secured accommodation for the duration of their visit. This can either be a short-term rental booking or written confirmation stating they will be staying with a personal acquaintance.

Residence permits for Malta

Expats looking to stay in Malta for longer than 90 days will require a residence permit. The Maltese residence permit comes in the form of an e-Residence document, which functions as a form of identification. Once an initial application is submitted, expats must attend an appointment at the Expatriates Unit at Identity Malta to submit their original documents.

There are two residence permits: the Ordinary Residence Permit and the Permanent Residence Permit. The main difference between the two permits is the different tax obligations attached to each permit.

Permanent Residence Permits are open to third-country nationals and are renewable once every five years. Holders of this permit pay a flat income tax rate of 15 percent. Only EU and EEA citizens are eligible for Ordinary Residence Permits, which are renewable annually. Expats on this permit pay income tax on a scale from 0 to 35 percent.

Work permits in Malta, also known as Single Permits, also function as residence permits, so expats only need to make one application to gain the right to work and live in Malta.

Applying for a Work Permit for Malta

Useful links

• Expatriates Unit Portal

*Visa requirements can change at short notice, and expats are advised to contact their nearest Maltese consulate for the latest information.

Malta has an industrialised and service-based economy with several robust sectors. Expats working in Malta will find themselves conveniently located between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. This strategic position attracts foreign companies and investors, both of which are good sources of employment for expats.

Job market in Malta

Malta's economy largely depends on foreign trade, manufacturing, tourism, IT, online gaming, and financial services. It also has a growing film industry, with many well-known movies being filmed in Malta. The country also houses one of the world's largest merchant marine fleets, attracting international shipping companies with favourable legislation and low taxes.

Most expats who don't speak Maltese end up working in IT, internet gaming and at call centres or setting up their own businesses in the country. Smaller companies often prefer local candidates who demand lower salaries and do not need to adapt to the local culture as much, while corporations frequently hire from abroad. Another possible avenue for expats is to work for a Maltese company with foreign interests.

Finding a job in Malta

Jobseekers in Malta should start the search online or consider working with a recruitment agency such as Konnect. Popular job-seeking platforms include jobsinmalta and Careerjet. Networking is vital, and LinkedIn is a great way to connect with people and companies who may be looking to hire.

EU citizens will have a much easier time finding work in Malta than non-EU citizens, also known as third-country nationals. If you're not from the EU, a work permit is required for taking up employment in Malta. You'll need a job offer to be eligible for a work permit. Third-country nationals can only be hired if they possess scarce skills or will be working in a sector with a labour shortage. In addition to a work permit, non-EU nationals will need a valid visa to enter the country.

Getting a Work Permit for Malta
Applying for a Visa for Malta

Useful links

• jobsinmalta
• Careerjet
• Konnect

Working culture in Malta

The working week in Malta is different across industries, but a standard 8am to 5pm workday is common. Overall, Malta's working culture is similar to that of the UK or the USA. Preparedness and punctuality are valued, and meetings may skew towards formality.

After work, the Maltese are social and often grab drinks with co-workers. Expect frequent invites and accept if possible, as this is a great way to make friends and assimilate into a new environment.

Business Culture in Malta

Work permits in Malta, sometimes known locally as employment licences, are required for any non-EU citizen planning on taking up a job on the island. The standard work permit in Malta is the Single Permit, which functions as both a work and residence permit. They are processed and issued by the Employment and Training Corporation (ETC).

Expats will need a job offer from an employer in Malta to start the process, since only registered employers can apply for Maltese work permits. The Single Permit is for jobs lasting longer than six months and is valid for a maximum of one year. Before it expires, the permit can be renewed for another year. There's no limit on the number of renewals as long as the employee continues to meet the criteria for the permit.

Work permit applications for Malta

Employers apply for the Single Permit on behalf of their expat employees. To do so, they must submit an online application through the Expatriates Unit Portal, including uploads of supporting documents supplied by the prospective employee. 

Once the application is made, the employee is sent a link to confirm the application and validate the data submitted. After confirmation, the employer is notified of the application's final submission. They can then track the application's progress through the portal.

Applications can be processed in a maximum of four months, but they are usually processed within two months. Once granted, the Single Permit functions as both a work and residence permit.

Single Permits are renewed annually. Holders should reapply 90 days before the old one expires to renew their Single Permit.

Useful links

• Expatriates Unit Portal

*Visa and work permit regulations may change at short notice, and expats should contact their nearest Maltese consulate or the Maltese Employment and Training Corporation for the latest information.

Types of accommodation in Malta

There are various kinds of accommodation in Malta, including apartments, villas, townhouses and maisonettes. Maisonettes are similar to apartments, but have a private entrance rather than the shared entrances typical of apartment blocks.

Maltese townhouses vary and tend to be either fairly old or newer. Older stone townhouses usually have numerous floors and traditional features such as patterned tiles, wooden floors, and stone arches. The new townhouses have a more contemporary style.

The "house of character" is a distinctly Maltese building common in rural areas and small villages. These typically have thick, unpainted stone walls, a central courtyard and sometimes even a well. Three- and four-bedroom houses are the norm, with some dating back to the 17th century. Although there are newer houses that replicate this traditional style with a modern twist, supply is limited. 

Furnished vs unfurnished

Accommodation in Malta comes in various forms, including furnished and unfurnished options. As far as what's included, this can vary quite widely, so be sure to clarify this before making a final decision. 

Furnished accommodation will have a higher rental cost than unfurnished accommodation, but it will save you the cost of either buying new furniture or shipping in furniture you already own.

Short lets

If you're in search of a new home in Malta, short lets are an ideal middle ground while you house hunt. They're more affordable than hotels and are better suited to longer stays, ranging from weeks to a few months. 

Most have WiFi, allowing you to work remotely if necessary, and are equipped with everything you might need for day-to-day living, right down to bedsheets and cutlery. This gives you time to view properties in person and get to know the various areas before settling on where in Malta you'd like to live.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Vrbo
• Short Lets Malta

Finding accommodation in Malta

Real estate agents can be helpful for expats who are unfamiliar with the local market. Aside from taking their clients through the process of renting or buying property and presenting homes matching clients' specifications, some agents assist with setting up utility accounts such as electricity and internet access. 

The downside is that real estate agents charge a fee for these services, usually equivalent to a percentage of the rental price. If the extra cost fits into your budget, though, this is the most convenient way of finding a new home in Malta.

Other popular ways of finding accommodation in Malta are online property portals and social media community groups. Some real estate agencies also host listings on their websites. 

Useful links

• RE/MAX
• Frank Salt
• Quick Lets

Renting accommodation in Malta

Even though plenty of Malta's rental accommodation is short-term and aimed at tourists, there's still plenty of choice when it comes to renting residential property. The best time of the year to begin the house hunt is autumn and winter, as lower-priced accommodation is abundant in the off season.

Making an application

When applying for a rental home, you'll need to submit several important documents, including proof of identity and income. You may also be subject to a credit check or asked to submit contact details for references. This can be tricky for new arrivals without a credit and rental history in Malta. In this case, negotiating to pay a higher deposit or monthly rental can be an alternative.

Leases

After finding and securing a property, the tenant and the landlord sign a tenancy agreement. The lease specifies the duration of the contract, the notice period and how bills will be separated and paid. Long-term leases are usually between six and 12 months, with an option to renew at the end of the rental period.

Deposits

Deposits are typically equivalent to one or two months of rent and are refundable at the end of the lease, with any damages to the property beyond normal wear and tear subtracted.

Terminating the lease

When signing the lease, it's advisable to check for a break clause that allows you to end the lease early if necessary. The clause should stipulate the length of notice required to break the lease and any other requirements.

Utilities in Malta

Utility bills such as electricity and internet are often not included in long-term rentals in Malta. Payment for utilities may take the form of a fixed monthly price paid in addition to rent, but more commonly, tenants pay utility providers directly based on usage. To do so, you'll need to register with each utility provider.

Electricity and water

Enemalta supplies electricity, and the Water Services Corporation (WSC) supplies water. Both of these entities are managed by the government.

Water and electricity are billed together, and bills are sent out once every two months. You can also manage payment online through an online portal known as ARMS.

Note that Enemalta charges higher rates for non-residential electricity use, so it's vital to ensure that you are registered as a residential electricity user. Landlords don't always mention this to tenants, and it can result in unnecessarily high power bills.

Gas

Gas is not widely used in Maltese homes, but where it is used it's usually in the form of cylinders. Once empty, service providers refill these for a fee.

Bins and recycling

WasteServ Malta manages waste removal in Malta at no cost to residents. Refuse bags are simply placed outside the home for collection on the specified day. Black bags are for general rubbish, while green or grey bags are used for recycling.

Useful links

• Enemalta
• WSC
• ARMS
• WasteServ Malta

Given its small size, Malta's public transport system consists only of buses, with extensive routes on the two larger islands. Other options include taxis and driving. Expats who prefer driving around Malta can hire a vehicle. That said, most people in Malta find it unnecessary to own a car.

Travel between the islands is made possible by ferry, seaplane, and the water taxis known as dgħajsa (pronounced ‘dysa’).

Public transport in Malta

Buses

Malta Public Transport operates bus services on the islands of Malta and Gozo. Buses on both islands usually run between 5.30am and 11pm, seven days a week, with night services on weekends and public holidays. There are over 300 routes, including night buses (indicated by an 'N' in front of the route number) and airport express buses (which have an 'X' in front of the route number).

Buses in Malta travel outwards from central hubs on both islands. The mainland hub is at Valletta Bus Terminal, while Victoria Bus Station is the main transport hub in Gozo.

Single- and multiple-journey tickets are available at ticket booths and vending machines at central locations. Bus drivers sell specific tickets, but you should preferably pay with exact change, as drivers may refuse large notes.

Frequent commuters should consider buying a Tallinja Card, which offers better deals on fares and is rechargeable online or at vending machines and ticket offices. A Tallinja mobile app is also available.

Public transport in Malta is free for all residents who have a personalised Tallinja Card. The government introduced free public transport in 2022 to encourage more people to use it rather than driving. 

Useful links

• Malta Public Transport
• Tallinja app

Taxis in Malta

The most common taxis in Malta are painted white, with a ‘taxi’ sign on the roof and a registration number on the front doors. 

You can catch a taxi from the airport to various destinations at standard fees. Taxis can also be hailed off the street or found at taxi ranks, but it's best to agree on a price with the driver beforehand. There are also black taxis, which are more comfortable, but these need to be booked in advance.

Ride-hailing applications like eCabs and Bolt are also available in Malta.

Useful links

• eCabs
• Bolt

Driving in Malta

Expats driving in Malta should do so defensively, since the country has a reputation for unpredictable driving. 

To drive legally, expats will need a valid driver's licence. Licences from other EU countries are accepted and are exchangeable for a Maltese licence if the holder has lived in the country for six months. Expats from elsewhere can use their home country licence for up to 12 months, after which they will have to get a Maltese driver's licence.

Depending on which country issued your driver's licence, you may be able to swap it out for a local licence. Otherwise, theoretical and practical testing may be necessary.

Useful links

• Transport Malta – Exchange your foreign driving licence

Many people are attracted to Malta because of the mild yet sunny climate, the proliferation of English among locals, and the island's affordability compared to other European destinations. 

Malta offers a broadly Mediterranean lifestyle but has a large expat population and hosts countless tourists, which may ease the transition. Despite some things being unfamiliar at first, you should find it fairly easy to adjust to the local culture in Malta.

Language barrier in Malta

How you approach the language barrier in Malta depends on your expectations. Most people in Malta speak English and signs are often bilingual, so expats often don't learn Maltese and can still get through their daily business without much trouble. This may limit opportunities to make local friends, though.

If you want to integrate into your new community, learning some Maltese is an ideal way to do so. The language stems from Arabic, uses a Latin alphabet and borrows words from European languages, particularly Sicilian Italian, reflecting the island country's interesting history. A few basic phrases can go a long way towards bridging cultural differences.

Religion in Malta

Roman Catholicism is the state religion in Malta and is the foundation for many of its customs. The most important and celebrated dates on the Maltese social calendar are the Catholic festivals and saints’ feast days.

An emphasis on the traditional family structure affects every interaction in Malta, and the island's small size further reinforces this. Gender roles in Malta are more traditional and the social groups are tight-knit. Making local friends can be challenging, but is ultimately worthwhile for a fuller experience.

Time in Malta

Many of the expats living in Malta are retirees attracted to the idea of living a slow-paced life. While this sounds easy enough, it might take a while to adjust to time in Malta.

People do not mind taking their time perusing the stores of specialised traders to get their groceries, so there aren't many supermarkets. Siestas are common among smaller businesses, with many staying open later. The general service can seem slow-moving, which may be frustrating for some expats.

Understanding and accepting that things take a bit longer are vital to adjusting to life in Malta – and stopping to appreciate the little things can improve your stay in the island country.

Malta has earned recognition as one of the world's top healthcare destinations. Despite its small size, the archipelago has a lot to offer when it comes to excellent care standards. Malta's healthcare system comprises both public and private sectors, and the islands have numerous facilities. Healthcare services in Malta are well priced, but in-hospital costs can add up.

Health insurance in Malta

Maltese citizens and expats with work permits have access to free healthcare in Malta, which is funded via taxation. 

For short visits, EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare, while UK citizens can use their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC post-Brexit. Expats from outside the EU and UK will need to take out private insurance. Luckily, there are multiple inexpensive medical insurance policies to choose from, which makes a private policy a worthwhile investment for both short- and long-term stays in Malta. 

Expats who work in Malta may decide to opt into private insurance for a top-up scheme that covers any medical expenses that aren't covered by government schemes. This isn't usually necessary, though, since healthcare in Malta is so affordable. Many expats only take out basic hospital cover and pay out of pocket for day-to-day medical expenses, such as GP appointments and medication. 

Useful links

• Ministry for Health

Public healthcare in Malta

Public healthcare in Malta is provided at two levels: public health centres (clinics) and hospitals. Waiting times at clinics are generally shorter as residents are assigned a public health centre based on their residential address.

Health centres provide specialised services such as immunisation, gynaecology, physiotherapy and mental healthcare. There are also general practitioners and nurses on site.

Private healthcare in Malta

Although the sector is small, private healthcare in Malta is accessible and highly regarded. Private hospitals offer the benefit of shorter waiting times and superior facilities, though naturally at a higher price than public facilities. That said, private hospitals in Malta are more affordable than in other European countries and are particularly popular with British patients who want to avoid long NHS waiting lists.

Pharmacies and medication in Malta

Every village in Malta has at least one pharmacy, but most have more. Pharmacies dispense medication and can provide basic medical advice for common ailments. Some pharmacies have on-site specialists during specified times.

Most pharmacies are open from Monday to Friday from 8am or 9am to 6pm or 7pm, sometimes closing for a few hours around midday. On Saturdays, pharmacy hours are from 8am or 9am to 12pm. On Sundays and public holidays, pharmacies operate on a rotating schedule.

Vaccinations for Malta

No particular vaccinations are required for entry to Malta, but it's best to ensure that all standard vaccinations are up-to-date. This includes the mumps-measles-rubella and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccinations. The Covid-19 vaccination is no longer a requirement for entry, but is still recommended.

Emergency medical services in Malta

The emergency number in Malta is 112. Operators can speak both Maltese and English, and the line provides access to various emergency services.

As a former British colony, Malta’s education system takes its cue from its former parent country and will be familiar to many expats. Malta's education system consists of the public and private sectors. 

School is compulsory for children between the ages of five and 16, though most continue to age 18. Education is divided into four stages: kindergarten, primary, secondary and post-secondary.

Expat parents who want their children to learn a globally recognised curriculum will be pleased to find that Malta has a number of international schools.

Public schools in Malta

Public education in Malta is free for all children. Teaching is in both Maltese and English up to the age of seven to facilitate bilingualism in children at an early age. Beyond this point, the language of instruction in public schools is mainly Maltese, though some English is also used. The primary language used can also vary from school to school.

If children are young enough to grasp a new language and can be enrolled in the bilingual programme, attending public school is a fantastic opportunity for cultural assimilation for expat families looking to stay in Malta long term.

An induction programme, run by the Migrant Learners' Unit, is available for foreign students who can't speak Maltese and English.

Useful links

• Ministry for Education
• Migrant Learners' Unit – Induction Programme

Private schools in Malta

Private schools in Malta are either affiliated with the Catholic Church or are independent. They are all overseen by the Ministry for Education and, like state schools, offer the national curriculum. They typically use English as the language of instruction, which gives expat families an alternative to the primarily Maltese-language state schools.

Independent schools

Independent schools are considered better than state schools, and while the quality of the education is high, so are the costs. Tuition fees are far from cheap, and additional expenses, such as study materials and transport, are not included in the annual fee.

Church schools

Church schools and their admission processes are overseen by the Secretariat for Catholic Education (SfCE).

By arrangement with the government, church schools in Malta do not charge tuition. However, parents are obligated to pay a set annual donation, which is still well below the cost of private schools.

Spaces are limited, and students' eligibility for enrolment is determined by a tiered system, where meeting certain criteria allows higher priority for entry. 

Families need not follow a particular religion to send their children to church schools in Malta. Though these schools do include religious education, non-religious children may be exempt from these classes.

Useful links

• SfCE – Church Schools
• Malta Education Services – Independent Schools

International schools in Malta

Several English-language international schools cater to expat students in Malta. They teach a range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate, the US, and the UK systems. These education systems are widely offered around the globe in international schools, with the main advantage being an easier transition between schools.

International schools often have high standards, qualified teachers and excellent facilities, but expats naturally have to pay for this privilege. Fees can be exorbitant, and expat parents moving to Malta for work should negotiate for international school fees to be subsidised in their relocation package.

Useful links

• St Edward's College Malta
• QSI International School of Malta
• Haileybury Malta

Special educational needs in Malta

The Maltese government operates on a principle of inclusion concerning students with special education needs. The island has four schools for children with special needs, known as Resource Centres. 

Services offered include providing specialised support for Autism Spectrum Disorder, specialist teachers for children with hearing or visual impairments and running early intervention services.

Tutors in Malta

There isn't much of a tutoring culture in Malta yet, so options are limited. There are a few online tutor directories and some specialised tutors that handle particular subjects, such as maths.

Tutoring is a great way of giving newly arrived children a helping hand with aspects such as adjusting to a new curriculum, learning a new language, or maintaining fluency in their mother tongue. For the latter, online tutoring is ideal, as it allows you to connect with first-language speakers back home.

Useful links

• Malta Tutors
• TrustedTutors
• Vella Bonello Education

Malta has a Mediterranean climate with fantastic weather year-round. Summers are hot, while winters are generally mild. 

During summer (June to August), average temperatures reach higher than 84°F (30°C). The sun can be scorching during midsummer, so it's best to stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day. We also recommend using a high-SPF sunscreen and staying hydrated.

Malta experiences very little rainfall, with most of the wet weather occurring in winter (December to February). Winters on the island are a bit chilly but not too bad, with average lows reaching 50°F (10°C).

Malta is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and charming medieval architecture. The island country's best feature, though, is its warm and rich quality of life that attracts expats the world over. Be that as it may, just like any destination, living in Malta comes with advantages and downsides. 

Below is a list of the pros and cons of moving to Malta.

Lifestyle in Malta

+ PRO: Awe-inspiring natural scenery

The Mediterranean islands are famed for their spectacular coastlines, stunning beaches and rugged landscapes. The island country is also a renowned film set thanks to its diverse and vibrant scenery. Malta is a scuba diving, snorkelling and canoeing haven, and expats can look forward to an exciting outdoor lifestyle.

+ PRO: Rich culture and history

Once occupied by powerful nations, Malta has a unique and vibrant culture. History and culture buffs will love the country, as it is home to some of the oldest temples in the world and beautiful Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Expats will always have something new to discover and explore.

Local Culture in Malta

Working in Malta

+ PRO: Stable job market

Malta is strategically located between the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, making the island country an attractive choice for foreign investors. This has created a robust job market with plenty of employment opportunities in the online gaming, film production, manufacturing, and logistics industries.

Finding a Job in Malta

- CON: Difficult for non-EU citizens to obtain a work permit

While it is fairly easy for EU citizens to live and work in Malta, non-EU citizens may experience some challenges securing a work permit. The requirements for obtaining a work permit for nationals from outside Europe include possessing scarce skills and landing a role in an industry experiencing labour shortages.

Getting a Work Permit for Malta

Accommodation in Malta

+ PRO: Most accommodation is furnished or semi-furnished

Accommodation in Malta comes in many forms, including apartments, maisonettes, villas and townhouses. The commonality between them is that rentals come furnished, significantly reducing moving costs.

Renting Accommodation in Malta

- CON: Housing standards are varied

While the older Maltese townhouses and houses of character may be charming and architectural, their interiors may be outdated and require some maintenance.

Getting around in Malta

+ PRO: Extensive and reliable public transport

Owing to its small size, Malta boasts an efficient and extensive bus network on the larger islands of Valletta and Gozo. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also abundant and reliable.

- CON: Unpredictable local driving style 

The Maltese have a reputation for being erratic drivers, making driving in the country a brave yet dangerous choice for expats. Those who intend to get behind the wheel are encouraged to drive defensively.

Public Transport and Driving in Malta

Cost of living in Malta

+ PRO: Relatively affordable housing 

Compared to other European countries, Malta has affordable housing options. Expats will get more bang for their buck in the island nation, especially outside the city centres, where prices tend to be lower. This is changing, however, as Malta’s expat population grows and drives up the demand for housing. 

Cost of Living in Malta

+ PRO: Local produce and restaurants are fairly cheap

The cost of living in Malta will largely depend on your preferences, especially when it comes to grocery shopping and eating out. Fresh local produce is available from roadside markets at a low cost, and you can also enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine at moderate prices in local restaurants. 

+ PRO: Reasonable healthcare costs

Malta is one of Europe’s top healthcare destinations and offers excellent facilities and highly skilled practitioners. Healthcare services in the country are well priced and have short waiting times. 

Medical Care and Health Insurance in Malta

- CON: International and independent schools are expensive

While Malta offers free education for all children between six and 16, most state schools teach in Maltese. This may be a barrier for older expat children, leaving costly independent or international schools as the only option.

Education and Schools in Malta

Climate in Malta

+ PRO: Great weather year-round 

As a subtropical Mediterranean oasis, Malta enjoys hot summers and mild winters, meaning the weather is warm throughout the year.

Climate Chart for Malta

Local culture in Malta

- CON: Basic knowledge of Maltese is key for building relationships

You can certainly enjoy a full life in Malta without learning to speak Maltese. That said, if you value integrating into your new community, you should learn the local language. Learning even basic phrases can help bridge the cultural barrier.

+ PRO: Strong family values

Malta has a small-town community feel and a culture centred around the importance of family. This environment can make settling in easier.