Living in Malta: A Guide for Expats

Malta has become one of the Mediterranean's most popular destinations for expats, drawn by its climate, English-speaking environment and EU membership. This guide explains what it is really like to live there — the practical steps, the costs, the best areas, and the trade-offs — so you can decide whether the islands are right for you.

Why people move to Malta

Malta combines a warm climate, a long coastline and a relaxed Mediterranean pace with the practical advantages of an EU member state where English is an official language. For many newcomers — remote workers, retirees, professionals in gaming, finance and tech — the appeal is being able to settle quickly without a language barrier, within a small, well-connected country.

Visas and residence

EU and EEA citizens can live and work in Malta freely, registering as residents after arrival. Non-EU nationals need an appropriate visa or residence route — for work, study, retirement or one of Malta's residence-by-investment programmes. Rules and thresholds change, so always confirm the current requirements with Identità (Malta's residency agency) before you commit.

Where to live

• Sliema & St Julian's — the busiest expat hubs, with seafront apartments, restaurants, nightlife and services; the most expensive rentals.
• Gzira & Msida — central, well-connected and slightly cheaper, popular with students and young professionals.
• Mellieħa — quieter, family-friendly, near the best beaches in the north.
• Valletta — historic and characterful, with limited but characterful housing.
• Gozo — for those wanting a slower, rural lifestyle.

Cost of living

Malta is not the budget destination it once was. Rents in the popular coastal towns have risen sharply, and imported goods can be pricey on a small island. Against that, public transport is inexpensive, eating out is reasonable by Western European standards, and there is no domestic heating burden in winter. Budget carefully and treat any specific figures you see online as a starting point to verify.

Working and taxes

Malta has active sectors in igaming, financial services, tech, tourism and maritime. Many expats also work remotely. The tax system includes special regimes for certain residents and highly qualified workers; because rules are detailed and change, take professional advice and confirm your status with the Commissioner for Revenue.

Healthcare, schools and daily life

Malta has a public healthcare system alongside private clinics and hospitals; eligibility depends on your residence and contributions. There are state, church and private/international schools, the latter popular with expat families. Day-to-day, the islands are safe and sociable, though summer heat, traffic and the housing market are the most common frustrations newcomers mention.