There’s no question that Malta is a popular and attractive destination for expats who are out on the hunt for the sun and easy life – and there’s plenty of both in stock for you when moving to Malta.
You’ll quickly find that the island has a lot to offer. But no place is a paradise, and like everywhere else, there are also some smaller and some bigger drawbacks to moving to Malta.
In this article, I’ll go through both the positives and the negatives of expat life in Malta, grouped into 14 different areas, through the eyes of someone who’s spent around 3 years on the island and has previously lived in 5 other EU countries – from East to West to South.
2019 UPDATE: Another few years have passed and as expected, some things have changed to the better and others to the worse. As this article is still, for the most part, very relevant, I’ve made some further updates to keep it up to date!
2017 UPDATE: Since I first published this article, it’s gotten a lot of feedback on social media and other channels (as well as the comments below). A lot of people agree with most of it, while others have had different experiences. That’s to be expected, of course, as with most everything in life, ‘your mileage may vary’. But we’ve made a few updates regardless, to keep up with the promise to keep this overview up-to-date.
Cost of Living in Malta
Pro: Everyday life is relatively affordable, compared to most Western countries. A pint of beer at a small pub can go for as little as €1.50, food is very affordable, and public transportation is relatively inexpensive as well – 75 cents per journey, capped at €26 per month if you have the Tallinja card (Source: Malta Public Transport).
2019 UPDATE: As everywhere else, life has gotten more expensive in Malta since this article was first written. While it’s still possible to find a €1.50 pint in rare occasions, you’d be more likely to pay €3 or more these days. The bus fare is still 75 cents, though, as long as you have the Tallinja card (tourist fares are higher).
Con: Eating out can be rather expensive, especially for the pickier types. Whilst there’s an abundance of restaurants on the island, the really good ones know their value and charge accordingly. Prices are still nowhere near those of Lonon, Paris, or any other major European city, though.
Con: Anything to do with Internet and mobile is extremely expensive. You can expect to pay upward of €30 a month for a simple 50Mbps/3Mbps broadband, and another €35 a month for a mobile subscription – certainly a big step back for those who are used to the Internet speeds and prices of Continental Europe.
Accommodation in Malta
Pro: Rental apartments are easy to find and plentiful. There’s been a lot of development over the recent decade, resulting in a huge variety of rental properties on the market.
Pro: Cost of accommodation (both rental and house prices) is quite cheap compared to most developed countries. Moving to Malta, you can easily find a newly furnished 2-bedroom flat for as little as €500 per month, in cheaper areas.
2019 UPDATE: Over the last few years, the apartment rental industry in Malta has exploded, and prices are higher than ever before. Instead of €500, you can expect to pay over double that for an OK 2-bed apartment in a decent location. There are talks in the government about potentially regulating the industry, but until something is done (and it might be a while), be prepared to negotiate hard!
Pro: Utilities are dirt cheap. Unless you’re on the “foreigner rate” (see our recent article about this for more), you can expect your monthly water and electricity bill to not exceed €50 per person, even if you run air conditioning. This will, of course, be a bit higher if there’s more people living in the apartment.
“… be prepared to be treated like a criminal in all of your dealings with the bank …”
Con: Rent in popular “expat areas” can be prohibitively expensive. Where a small apartment in Mosta or Naxxar would set you back €500 a month, the price for a similar one in Sliema or St. Julian’s can easily exceed €1,000 or more. Prices also tend to go up in late spring and summer, when there are more tourists and incoming expats.
Weather in Malta
Pro: It’s hard to beat 300 days of sunshine in a year. For heat lovers, Malta’s summers are as close to perfection as it gets. There’s no shortage of sun and heat between the months of June and October – just stock up on sunscreen and head out!
Con: The Maltese winters are short and not very cold, but extremely nasty nevertheless. Even though temperatures rarely fall below 10 °C (approx. 50 °F), the insulation of most houses is lacking severely, making it also 10 °C indoors! There’s also no central heating, making the only options for warmth electrical heaters or gas units.
Finding a Job in Malta
Pro: Entry level jobs are always easy to find, especially in late spring and early summer, when many tourist establishments expand their number of staff. Just walk around in the Sliema / St. Julian’s area and you’ll notice “Staff Wanted” signs on almost every other door.
Pro: There are many international companies in Malta – mostly in the fields of finance and iGaming – creating a fair number of specialist jobs that usually pay much better than most local companies. These firms are also often on the lookout for speakers of foreign languages.
Con: With the tiny size of the country, higher-paying jobs at local firms are scarce, and for various reasons, locals are often preferred to foreigners (even though no-one will officially admit it).
Crime & Safety in Malta
Pro: When it comes to violent crime, Malta is an extremely safe country. According to Eurostat, Malta has only 0.3 violent crime incidents per 1,000 inhabitants. Of other EU countries, only Cyprus compares.
Con: When it comes to non-violent crime, pick-pocketing and burglaries are unfortunately on the increase, but still nowhere near the EU average levels. This isn’t a big shock for foreigners moving to Malta, but can indeed be a significant burden for the Maltese, many of whom are still used to leaving their houses and cars unlocked.
Languages in Malta
Pro: English is an official language of Malta (alongside Maltese), and is widely spoken. You can expect to find all government forms and documents in English, as well as all road signs, restaurant menus, and other crucial bits of information.
“Drunk driving is also extremely common and the police don’t seem to care about it one notch.”
Con: Even though 88% of Malta’s population speak English, Maltese is also widely spoken and without speaking the language, you’ll never be accepted as “one of their own”. The downside to this is that Maltese – being a combination of Arabic and Italian – is an immensely difficult language to learn. But on the bright side – once you do it, it will be appreciated a lot!
Doing Business in Malta
Pro: Taxation in Malta can be very attractive, especially for International companies benefiting from one of the various “tax refund” schemes. Malta is also a relatively stable environment, with low risk of political or financial instability.
Con: Bureaucracy in Malta is mind-bobbling. Coming from elsewhere in Europe, you’ll almost certainly be very surprised – and not in a positive way. Without exaggeration, it can easily take up to 6 months to get a bank account opened for your company. And this is on top of the 2-3 months that it takes to sort out and file the incorporation paperwork.
Public Transportation in Malta
Pro: Being a small country means that most areas in Malta are connected by public transportation one way or another. Unless you want to travel to a secluded town with 20 inhabitants, there will be a bus route available for you – even if it only runs 4 times a day.
Con: Buses in Malta rarely run on schedule and due to the inefficient road network, routes are mostly long and winding, and getting from point A to point B often requires at least one connection. This can be a significant time drain, especially because most buses only run once or twice an hour, unless you travel between two very large towns.
2019 UPDATE: A few years ago, Malta went through a major overhaul in its public transit network and the whole setup. As a result of this, things improved somewhat, but many of the issues, especially those that are due to the uniqueness of Malta’s road network, remain.
Infrastructure in Malta
Pro: Again owing to its small size, most of the country is very well connected with water and electricity. Internet connectivity, albeit expensive and slow, is abundant as well.
Con: The road network in Malta is stagnant and apart from the main arteries, most roads are in a terrible condition. Roads also tend to be far too narrow to facilitate the ever growing traffic (Malta has the most cars per household in the EU!), resulting in big jams on and off the rush hour.
2019 Update: Since we first published the article back in 2016, a few major road infrastructure projects (such as the Sliema flyover) have completed. This has had a very good impact on traffic conditions in certain areas and it’s great to see the government moving in the right direction. Needless to say, a more noticeable and wide-spread improvement will still take a long time.
Con: Because of the long summer and the short winter, there’s no central heating anywhere in the country. One might think that it’s not even necessary, but in reality, we do need heating for at least 3-4 months each year when it gets unbearably cold indoors.
Healthcare in Malta
Pro: All healthcare in Malta is free. As long as you’re employed, you can head to the Mater Day Hospital (or the Gozo General Hospital if you’re in Gozo) and get any necessary treatments free of charge. According to a 2012 report by PWC, Malta ranks amongst the top 6 in the EU for the overall quality of healthcare as well.
Pro: Private health insurance in Malta is extremely inexpensive. Where simple in-patient plans go for as low as €90 a year, a payment of around €350 a year will get you full cover, allowing you to see doctors at one of the many private clinics and hospitals and avoid the queues of the public clinics.
Con: Queues in public hospitals can be ridiculous. Unless your condition is life threatening, you can often expect to wait in the queue for several months to see a specialist, and when visiting the clinic just to see your Family Doctor (GP), it’s best to block off the whole day for queuing.
Banking in Malta
Pro: Largely due to comprehensive and strict government regulations, the banking sector in Malta is healthy, and the general consensus is that it doesn’t face the same risks that Cyprus or some other EU countries have. There are several major banks, including both local ones like the Bank of Valletta, and foreign chains like HSBC (UK) and Banif (Portugal).
“Maltese are one of the nicest and kindest people that you will ever meet.”
Con: Due to the “offshore nature” of the country, making it a prime target for money laundering, be prepared to be treated like a criminal in all of your dealings with the bank. Gone are the days when you would step into a bank, expecting them to go out of their way to get you to use their services. Nowadays, it almost feels as if you need to beg a bank to open you an account or issue you a cheque-book.
Con: Foreigners are often discriminated against by the local banks. As an example, it’s very difficult to even get a debit card carrying the VISA logo and allowing for online shopping, unless you’re willing to “pledge” a certain amount of money on a locked, zero-interest account. Credit cards or overdraft? Forget about it. Unless you’re born in Malta or have significant assets, no bank will even think about giving you a credit line. Luckily, other companies like Insignia have started to “fill in the blank” and are now offering simple credit products regardless of whether you’re Maltese or not.
2017 UPDATE: Some expats have reported that they’ve successfully obtained a credit card, and have had overall positive experiences with banks, so your mileage may vary!
Traffic
Pro: Because of small distances and relatively narrow roads, speeds are generally small and overall, traffic in Malta is very forgiving. Largely because of this, Malta also ranks among the lowest in the EU in terms of fatal traffic accidents.
Con: Driving in Malta takes some getting used to. Coming from elsewhere, you need to learn defensive driving and never assume a single ounce of common sense from other drivers. It’s common for drivers to ignore even basic traffic rules, such as using turn indicators, giving way on roundabouts and not talking on mobile phones. Drunk driving is also extremely common and the police don’t seem to care about it one notch.
Con: Traffic jams are commonplace and very hard to predict. Because many places are connected with only one (usually narrow) major road and no alternatives, traffic can build up easily even if there’s just a small accident on the way. The way the road network is built, traffic blockages can often be felt tens of kilometers away.
Education in Malta
Pro: Education in Malta is generally of decent quality and state schools are free of charge. For higher education, the University of Malta offers a number of majors and the tuition is generally affordable. Private schools are also plentiful, and rather inexpensive compared to many other European countries. One can expect to fork out an average of €3,500 per annum in tuition fees.
Con: Whilst free, public education is limited to the main school in your region (so there’s no choosing), and classes are split approximately half-and-half in English and in Maltese. There are also compulsory religion classes, which may put off some expats moving to Malta. UPDATE: As informed by several readers, it is now possible to opt for “ethics” classes instead of religion classes.
Lifestyle in Malta
Pro: Laid back lifestyle, proximity to the sea and 300 days of sunshine certainly allows for a reduced stress, compared to most other places in Europe. Life in Malta is mostly very slow-paced and relaxed, suiting well to those having trouble escaping from the daily rat race.
Con: The unfortunate downside to the relaxed lifestyle is people often seeming to have a complete and total disregard towards other peoples’ time. This can be seen in nearly every step of the way – from businesses requesting to meet you in person, rather than discussing matters over email, to bus drivers taking their time having a chat with a friend whilst a queue of cars is behind them. Needless to say, for someone with a busy lifestyle, this can get very disturbing very quickly.
People in Malta
Pro: The Maltese are one of the nicest and kindest people that you will ever meet. Especially in smaller towns and villages, most people are always ready to go out of their way to help you in any way, shape or form, and unlike many other tourist destinations, foreigners are rarely taken advantage of.
Con: I hope not to offend anyone with this, but the Maltese are also some of the most stubborn people that I’ve ever met 🙂 If someone’s formed their opinion about something, then it’s virtually impossible to change this opinion – regardless of how hard you try or how many facts you have backing you up.
Bottom Line
Like any other place in the world, there are a number of both positives and negatives when it comes to moving to Malta, and a lot will depend on who you are, what are your interests and where you’re coming from.
But in general, Malta is a nice and welcoming destination for foreigners. Just keep an open mind and try to appreciate the country for what it has to offer, rather than getting carried away by the negatives – which sometimes is oh-so-easy to happen.
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Accomodation
CON: Landlords can be ruthless and be hellbent on ripping you off, especially if you are foreign. There is a group to help:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/371466666251933/
Indeed! Checked out your group by the way – some nice discussions going on in there!
There are several things that I disagree about this article. First of all, accommodation in Malta is no longer cheap. You can expect to pay more than in Rome, Helsinki or Barcelona and now nearly as much as in London in certain areas. Usually the standard is very low. You pay 900eur for an apartment with windows over looking the wall of another house. The furniture is cheap and nasty and fisnishings are shabby. Especially foreigners are exploited my landlors in every way, from paying the 0 persons rate on water and electricity, not getting back their deposit and landlords generally being greedy and even hostile. Using an aircondition or heather full on, will not out you back 50eur a month add another 0 and you will be closer to the truth.
Many foreigners don’t know that if landlord does not pay back the deposit they can take the case to the small claims tribunal that does not cost a lot and should be a faster proces than normal court.
If you have been screwed over by a business, on the other hand, you can take the case to the Consumer Tribunal. It does not cost you much to file the case and you don’t even need a lawyer.
Maltese people are not friendly and helpful. They are extremely greedy and are only going to remain friendly with you as long as they can take advantage of you one way or another.
Public transport is no longer cheap as it used to be. One trip sets you back 2eur this ticket is valid for 2 hours and after this, you need to buy another ticket. So if you travel a lot it comes expensive. Ofcourse you can apply for the “tallinja” card” but it can take several months to arrive.
Foreigners in many ways are discriminated against. With water and electricity bills, you need to register the number of people by the form H to Arms Malta. Otherwise you may be on the most expensive rate without knowing.
God forbid you get in problem with law or authorities. The justice system really treats foreigners as second class citizens.
Do not open bank accounts in Malta. Anyone can garnishee (block) your account at any time. You don’t even need a court order to do this!! It might take years before the court dispute is settled and during this time, your money and accounts will be blocked for what ever amount it may be.
Landlors do this to their tenants frequently. They have even managed to block people’s wages directly from their account without a court order. So what ever you do, don’t tell them where you work and do not open account in Malta.
Only thing I agree with this article, is that alcohol is cheap. That comes in handy when you are trying to get over the fact that you have been screwed over by your mover company/landlord/ shop etc… Good luck and don’t be naiive. This country is not like others in the European Union.
Wow! I think it might be time for you to consider moving somewhere else.
Easy, we foreigners, will soon move to another country that lets you run an igaming company. I honestly cant wait to see th breakdown of maltese financial system after all expats and igaming industry leaves this rock. We are responsible for 16% of this nations Taxes. But when it comes to GDP and spending, that goes waaay over 25%.
Thank you Mr/Mrs Grech for being such a typical local hospitality representant.
Stan and Mary, I think you both need a tampon. Life here as an expat is very easy. And no, us foreigneirs working here in igaming industry are not moving anywhere as quickly as you suggest, as the Maltese Government will ensure they keep the necessary incentives in order for the igaming industry to stay put here.
To make a comment that “I honestly cant wait to see th breakdown of maltese financial system after all expats and igaming industry leaves this rock” is just narrow minded man.
I can’t wait to have less Polish people like you here in Malta. Thank you for being such a typical Polish Poes.
Goed gese daar
You are very sad and have obviously lost it. Wishing misfortune on others. Good luck and best wishes wherever you go.
bite me
Well said
lol what a moaner.Dont come back isay
Thank you Mr. Grech. I agreed my grandfather’s name was. Calcedonia. Grech (another Grech )as he was from Valletta, Malta.
During the war the mom lived there for 10 years and loved everyone, her grandmother aunts ,all from them from Valletta, Malta
You are an exceedingly wonderful group of people and have such A great history and culture and I-honor you for that🙏🏼😊thank you 😊
sure this country is not like others in european union because it’s the best, envy for it will only land you in having to make way and space, please as we need a lot of it, thanks a lot
The religion in malta, money and greed, that’s why there is no space apart from between the maltes ears.
So u still in malta then? 😂
Budapest actually
Coolio … send my regards 👌✌🏻
What kind of dick answer is that
Open your umbrella and fly awwwaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Usual unsurprised response
Typical Malt, no brain
Shame man Mary, you and Stan seem to have the same condition where your heads and faces look like big vaginas, so people take every opportunity to screw you. That’s tough man. Hope the screwing gets easier with time.
900 euros for a terrible apartment with terrible furniture and no view? You have been taken for a ride! I pay 700 for a Sliema penthouse. Yes, prices have gone up a lot in this specific area, with 800-900 becoming the norms for good appartments in the Sliema, St. Julians and Gzira area. But you can easily hit the jackpot even here, especially during the winter months.
But that’s beyond the point. The Sliema area is incredibly tiny. If you are not afraid of driving you can easily get smaller house and maisonettes in good quality for 500-700 a month, and that with really short commuting times (and of course, you can get appartments for even less). In all other countries one would expect to drive/commute for 30 minutes, give or take (often more) to get to work. Why have other standards here?
Hi Chris,could you drop a link of local( Maltese) estate agency or wherever you can look up for houses to rent.
Thanks 😉
I’m moving to Monte carlo
Sliema is an overdeveloped dump.
There seems to be lots of things you don’t like about this country so why live here?? One major problem here is having the misfortune to meet other expats that only complain about everything here. So again I wonder why they bother. Also you are obviously to ashamed about what you have to say that you can’t even use your real name
Was good 10 years ago! Too many immos and crime
My grandma was born in Malta, and she has always been kind. She has never taken loans from anyone, and spends hundreds on us buying us beautiful things, while she can’t even afford to do so.
@ Mary Poppins
I’m Maltese, I’ve been living in Malta my whole life and I think your comment about Maltese people is extremely ignorant. May I remind you that the British community in Malta has a bad reputation among many of us locals for being rude, condescending and disrespectful towards us; firstly, your comment generalizing Maltese with such conceitedness contributes to furthering your community’s negative reputation, secondly, has it ever occurred to you that locals may be being unfriendly towards you because of your horrible attitude towards us that you’ve just so clearly demonstrated?
Nearly every other foreigner I’ve spoken to believes that we’re a kind and friendly people, of course we’re not perfect, but we’re a lovely people in general.
By the way, I must ask: why would you move to a country if you don’t like the natives? I never understood why people do this. If you are living in our homeland, it should go without saying that you should either respect us (at least enough to not go whining about your racist stereotypes of us online, please) or go live somewhere else.
Sincerely,
A pissed-off local xxx
I agree with you! I hope to work as a teacher on Malta. Not certain I will find a job, but I will try. Now, the real Mary Poppins would never be as rude as that person! I see that the post is two years old. Hopefully, she has left!
Thank you! Good luck finding work as a teacher here, it might be a good idea to see if MCAST has any available positions since they recently added some new courses to their prospectus and will probably be hiring teachers to teach the new courses. Indeed, if she is that unhappy in Malta I hope she moved to another country!
“By the way, I must ask: why would you move to a country if you don’t like the natives? I never understood why people do this.”
Welcome to my world. I am an American.
Are you a native American or an immigrant American like me?…… Your ancestors come on a Banna boat.
You are a lovely person and I can’t wait to visit your beautiful country one day.
You`ll regret for sure !!
Apparently, you are saying that Mary Poppins’s attitude about Maltese people is lacking but you don’t seem to say that anything she says is incorrect.
It is also not that obvious that that sentence about Maltese being not helpful and greedy is really about the whole Maltese population. It sounds more like she is talking about government institutions and businesses.
When someone is angry and disappointed because there is a problem, should that person simply be called rude and the problem ignored?
Why do you think Mary Poppins is British btw?
Are you British? Let me guess. Yes, you are, and you might also be Mary Poppins with a new account. Welcome back Poppins. Was England too rainy?
Thank you for making my point that some people here are trying to drag this discussion into a racist and xenophobic direction.
You are so right …
Your right in all you say I worked for taxi firm and got food slot cheaper being in uniform my father was scammed out £30’000 on timeshare con like many Brits don’t realise what there buying is nothing but fresh air with €500 up keep charge monthly and you never get your money back I lived there for 6 months made loads friends working as driver but also warned people off timeshare scam were seen as easy money being British and they never want push time shares on anyone other than British
Timeshare scams happen all the time, everywhere, why single out Malta? Look around you.
you’re in the wrong country….what crap!!!
“God forbid you get in problem with law or authorities. The justice system really treats foreigners as second class citizens. Do not open bank accounts in Malta. Anyone can garnishee (block) your account at any time.”
Would someone else mind sharing their views? Malta is on my short list of relocation destinations. I understand that moving to a new nation will always involve some bumps in the road and that learning the local language and customs are part of being a good guest. But the lack of equal protection in the eyes of the law should something unfortunate happen is somewhat concerning…as is the ability of any complainant to block your access to your bank account without a court order.
Well don’t bother going then.Simple
Getting a credit card is super easy in Malta. Not that one should rely on credit cards but I had mine up and running (I’m “foreign”) from Insignia in just a few days. I also got a visa card from day 1 when I moved here, no problem at all.
That’s great to hear! And yes – Insignia have been fantastic. I personally don’t do credit cards (apart from the few that I already have from a while back that give me miles and other benefits) so I ended up taking a prepaid Visa Black from them, and so far it’s been fantastic.
With the kind of (often highly discriminatory) policies that high street banks have, I believe there’s a ton of room in the market for other companies similar to Insignia to come and capitalise on the market share that BOV/HSBC are flat out not interested.
maybe we can hook up would like to try some Malta pussy
Montana USA- Our once pristine state has now become over run by tourists visiting Yellowstone and buying very home to get away from the violence and hatred since the election 2021. I would love to see Malta and meet the people. It seems to me, life is what you make it. Treat people like you would want to be treated and the good comes back around. It is my dream to someday visit and possibly live in Malta where people are kind and welcoming. Montana is no longer what is once was, except for 90 days of summer, the rest is bitter cold winter. I will buy a Malteese puppy and live in a small place. Sit by the sea and soak up sun. Make new freinds and have a happy life.
religion classes are also not any longer compulsory. Children can take ethics studies
Thanks for this! Someone on Facebook pointed this out too so I’ll definitely amend the article shortly, but waiting for some more feedback first on some other pain points, as well as “pros” to make one big amend 🙂
great article though 🙂 quite accurate if you ask me. Though people like me, won’t find summer that attractive. It is too hot lol.
Well Malta has the most expensive electricity in Europe. An inflated housing market and expensive food when it comes to anything healthy. The price skyrockets when instead of a frozen pizza youd like to buy some veggies and cook the dinner yourself.
Apart from that. Yes, mostly accurate.
Thanks for your comment, Stan!
I’m not sure where your information about Malta having the most expensive electricity in Europe comes from, as according to the official statistics by Eurostat, that’s not even close to being the case. In fact, Malta is in the bottom half of the list, and nearly half the price of some other EU countries.
Perhaps you’re on a ‘domestic’ tariff and are therefore overpaying? I wrote about this recently here: http://therealmalta.com/foreigner-malta-may-paying-double-utilities/
Another consideration here that many don’t think of is the fact that in many cases it’s simply wrong to compare the price of kWh in, say, Finland to that in Malta, as at the end of the day what matters is not the price of kWh, but the actual utility bill, and due to the weather, the prevalence of gas ovens and other factors, most people simply consume less electricity here than they would in some other countries.
With reference to the price of groceries, I suppose it again depends on what’s the comparison point. When compared to many Western European countries, groceries in Malta are incredibly cheap. But compare the prices here to say Latvia or Poland, and you’ll of course pay what seems to be a fortune.
For someone who wants to buy their preferred brand and this brand alone, though, it can indeed be quite costly, as the cheaper stuff is mostly limited to imports from Italy, with everything that’s coming from the UK or elsewhere in mainland Europe being quite pricey due to the positioning of the country and the associated delivery costs.
*See here for the official stats: http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Electricity_price_statistics
One area where prices in Malta are much more expensive is when it comes to vegetarian products, say compared to UK prices, choice is also rather limited. To make up for this many vegetables, especially those in season bought from local markets, are competitively priced.
Are you a native American or an immigrant American like me?…… Your ancestors come on a Banna boat.
no it hasnt…. Cyprus is more expensive for electric but it is far cheaper for water and accomondation too
This article is typical of someone who has not been in the country long and think they can give advice which could well put off future expats.
The info on winters is exaggerated and some of the info on banking incorrect.
We opened a bank account including debit card in 1 hour. (Only a lease agreement and passport required)
If you rent the right property then winters are manageable and may be damp but not ‘nasty’
We pay less for internet here than we did with BT 4 years ago and we can get all UK TV programmes for between €10 and €30 a month using IPTV (£82.00 with Sky in UK)
As for jobs,if you can’t speak Maltese then certainly most vacancies will not be open to you, that is common sense.
I would suggest,as you give the impression that, for you at least, the cons out way the pros that you find another country to move to very quickly!
Thanks for your feedback, Ray. Much appreciated! At this stage of the site’s life, every comment helps us get to more readers, get more publicity and widen our reach.
Good grief – you’ve become Maltese!!!
My banking experience has been in line with yours. I signed up for an online debit card through a new app-based company because in under 10 minutes I was in the system with a working MasterCard number; my Malta bank (BOV) said they would accept an application for a debit card after six months, and would only approve it with a minimum €600 locked deposit.
Which is fine, I get it, Maltese banks have regulations to mitigate the risk of transient foreign customers – but fortunately we now have online options.
Leaving her beauty apart, Malta is definitely becoming a tough place to settle in: too small place with high density and extreme high number of cars! Traffic is not easy on tiny Malta, not to mention pollution and dust everywhere. There are a lot of pros about living in Malta, but… facing reality can be a different story when considering that our minimum wage is still very low and cost of living is on the increase.
great piece, real info !
But you don’t really need health insurance as the public health care is free for EU citizens. And private hospitals can’t handle your case anyway if you get seriously ill, they will send you the Mater Dei public sector anyway.
You see this is what you get here. The amount of hostility from getting screwed on groceries because you are foreigner up to being called a polish poe, is what this island dwellers are about. Racist, hostile biggots. I wonder where people here got this attitude from. You can’t open a bank account easily when you are a EU citizen, you cannot get even a damn internet contract without paying the illegal in the EU special deposit because you are not Maltese. I’m lucky to work in a completely mixed environment.
Ah shame, do you need some tissues? Can I call your mommy?
Don’t expect people (foreigners like me or locals) to accept you with open arms when you go and make stupid comments like you did about how you can’t wait to see the breakdown of the financial system here when companies leave, as you know how many people that will effect (you probably would have voted for Brexit if you could).
You seem to have such a bad time in Malta and all the problems you have listed I can assure you majority of EU nationals and third party nationals (I also work in a “mixed environment”) who I work with did not have any of the problems you had. My account got opened in 2 weeks as soon as my bank back home sent back swift confirmation of validity of my account there.
Maybe you are the problem here as all you seem to do is whine and complain, rahther than look for a solution or make any positive comments.
Life is very easy here, but maybe it’s just too tough for your sensitive soul. Just never go to an African country for work, you will have a nervous breakdown.
You are not well
Easy????
U seem to be getting screwed over a lot here. your face probably looks like a big vagina. That’s why I called you a poes.
You sound like a Trumptard.
Stan, have you stopped taking your medication. If your so unhappy here the answer is simple.
I love how you all confirm the fact its bad in here and that the only solutions is to go somewhere else where its better. Im not unhappy here, i have a lot of friends here so we can together complain about the badness of some of the thing here.
Get the fuck out of Malta and stop bitching
I’m insured with Gasan Mamo and no – never had any issues with claims.
I would focus about flats prices as they jump to orbit in my opinion.
You mentioned that you can find cheaper places in other cities but than you should consider to buy a car as well. Lets be honest the public transport will work just for tourist that do not have to take care about time.
I really love the summer time, but i realized that I cannot live in the place where quality of studio flat is like there were taken from deep communist time ( design, lack of dishwasher, tumbldryer or simple stuff like hoover) an with the price minim 550 ( if you are extremely lucky).
This also not a place where you can just take a taxi if you are in need as it may take ages to order it and they are not working like in any other EU countries I have been leaving.
I still think that this place could be amazing. But due to fact of changes I have observed during last 1,5 year. I can recommend it just for a students ( that would love to share an apartment wit many other people) or maybe wealthy retiree.
Accomodation: Prepared to be ripped by a landlord (foreign or local).
What’s extraordinary is the number of people who tell him to move if he isn’t happy;.. without finding anything to counter what he is saying, which is basically true. No rent controls and only one or two year leases means that too many people, at the end of a year or two, are told that their rent will go up 300 Euros. How many people know that before arriving? But let’s face it, there are two soerts of people who come to Malta. Those who move here because they have tons of money and want to pay less tax don’t care about rents gong up … they can either pay or tehy have bought a house so it doesn’t matter; But for those who came as a cheap way to make tehir pensons go further? The lack of rent controls becomes a major problem. I wonder how many of teh people talking about “wonderul Malta” are on an ordinary salary rather than wealthy apartment owners?
Polllution levels are off teh charts here. That too is true; and it isn’t gongt o get better for a long time, because half of the pollutin comes from teh constructoin sites (everywhere, now) and teh very fine dust that goes into teh atmosphere becqauxe Malta is rock, not earth for teh most part. There has been a 30% ris in cases of asthma in children in the last 10 years… anyone with respiratory problems or chldren should NOT be moving to Malta! Nobody seems to mention this “minor” detail… but I know lots of people who get a cough within days of moving here.
Wow! This a very serious and precious information… Thanks from an asthmatic…!
I suffer from allergic astma and have never had any problems in Malta. In fact it is one of the few places in Europe where I find it easy to breathe during spring and summer months.
I have lived in eight European countries before Malta.
Thats great info. I also have an allergic asthma. What country suited you the most?
This clown lives in cloud cookoo land.you must have spent your whole time in malta drinking beer and smoking dope to get this deluded.
Nowhere is perfect – everywhere is perfect if you feel it is. Malta may well be quirky but it’s that which makes it appealing … along with the sunshine, the fantastic schooling, the amazing local food. Everywhere is what you make of it, isn’t it?
Also, I would like to point out that, whereas most Maltese are super friendly, customer service in companies, hotels and restaurants is basically non-existent. When you start explaining why you have an issue, they will try to cut the conversation to give you excuses why it’s not their fault, and getting worked up. It seems to me that there is no training for customer service representatives in the island. You will hardly get a “welcome”, “hope to see you again”, and “thank you” in a shop or a restaurant, let alone a customer service line… if they ever reply. Granted, there are rude people everywhere, but customer service individuals should be trained to know better.
FInn Maria, with regards to customer care in shops hotels and especially restaurants, I agree with you 100% and it is a great shame. I also can tell you the reason why, just in case you cannot tell the difference. Most waiters and people working in this industry are unfortunately foreigners and they bring their sad rude ways with them. I am Maltese and spent the last 10 years in Uk. I was very shocked and disgusted that everywhere I go (in Malta) to get any service, I have to speak in English or Italian and I f I do get a service it’s always with a hostile arrogant tone. Whether it is in a restaurant, on a bus, supermarket..etc…. Very sad. Very few foreigners that chose to live in Malta have embraced the Maltese welcoming ways, and those that did I’m sure that are happy because they do get appreciated. Yes we do have a hot temper but that is everywhere in the MED. But we are also passionate in all our ways. Unfortunately again, you need to be passionate like us or you will misunderstand it.
there are many maltese in the serving industries ..
the most nicest one are foreigners ..
If its a Maltese you are getting a burden once you step into his shop
Absolutely exact! Although Maltese people are charming, welcoming, and helpfull, they cannot stand any remark, critic, or complaint. Now I know I am the only one that this happened to… lol
Where dies one go for reporting fraud and abuse of senior expats in malta
The original article’s pro’s and con’s are very well in-line with my own experiences, I lived there almost three years and spent many holidays after that.
You could also add something about nature (forests are nonexistent basically), cleanliness (not very clean) and possibilities to different sports (pros: scuba diving, sailing, cons: cycling)
FinnMaria also pointed out customer service, which has a lot of room to improve. They usually only take their own point-of-view (maybe something to do with that stubbornness you mentioned) and doesn’t think about customer experience about the issue. This is major issue in 95% of restaurants.
Having lived in Malta for nearly 3 years we found it very easy to settle in. Bank accounts sorted while we was actually still living in another country, Tax and NI all sorted,electricity all sorted on residential rate (we are renting and not owning our own property at the moment),car ownership sorted with tax and insurance. jobs with major companies no issues Residential I.D cards sorted within 4 weeks of moving here and all the other factors to make living here in what I call home easy. You need to explore to find places like shops farms ect ect to save on expenditure dont be afraid to ask people for help they are not Ogre’s. The more you interact with the people of Malta the more you will settle in.
Martin, Where did you come from to Malta? Are you planning to stay in Malta forever?
Thanks
Hello Martin we are intending to move to gozo in February march and still looking at different types of accommodation we are in the process of selling but don’t have an exact completion date. We are coming in January to look at properties . Can you tell me how you managed to get a bank account before moving as that seems sensible for us. Is there anyway we can communicate one to one. Would appreciate any help from your experience
Lin
Hi I’m moving to Malta, in a couple of months, I find some of the comments disturbing.
I have been coming to Malta for over 30 years.
I haven’t experienced some of the things that have been aired on here and I hope I don’t .
I agree! Have you moved to Malta? How has it been? Thanks x
Yes saddens me too.
How is your move?
Hi, I think some of the comments are disturbing too. On balance, I find Malta a great place to live, it’s very relaxing, all the UK ex-pats look out for each other, so you don’t find the elderly are isolated or lonely. My husband & myself have some wonderful Maltese friends who are genuine, warm and friendly and will treat people with respect – they will clam up if people who don’t try to understand or relate to the culture, then start slagging off the Maltese. Of course, there are some greedy landlords, the first two apartments we rented, we had horrible landlords – the 1st one knew the place was infected with cockroaches and did nothing about it & when there was a big leak from an adjoining apartment, that caused damp up our walls & made it uninhabitable – he refused to pay back our deposit. The 2nd landlord – a new build – he was fine but his girlfriend acted as his rotweiler and she was a proper bitch (he did actually put his hands round her neck at one point!) Our 3rd landlord’s are wonderful, very honest, fair, reasonable rent and actually appreciate us for being steady, reliable tenants (and are horrified at the way our tenants in UK wreck our flat there) All in all, I recommend Malta for being a great place to live, no TV licence, not rip off for internet, freshly baked bread everyday in most grocery stores, great history & culture, it really is like living in an open air museum that is so rich and alive. Can’t fault the medical treatment for my husband. Life is what you make it here! for us, it’s a great life.
How much can you expect to pay for a nice 1 bedroom rental apartment?
For black people, how racist are the Maltese?
Some people will probably want to flame me for saying this (as the topic of racism is quite a delicate one here), but in my experience:
– If you speak good English, have your life sorted out, etc. then most people tend to treat you 100% equally to how they would treat anybody else.
– If you’re from Africa, however, and can be mistaken as a refugee, the racism is one of the worst that I’ve ever seen anywhere else in Europe.
This is a huge generalisation though, of course. There are people who express racism towards “group 1” and there are people who are extremely nice to “group 2”. Also, being white myself, I don’t have any first hand experience, so can only comment based on what I’ve observed on the streets, and when my business partner (who’s a black English guy) has been visiting.
I am white and lived in Uk for the past 10 years, married to black african so I mingled with both black and white. My son suffered a lot of racism and physical abuse by british people (white) and I was treated like dirt and suffered a lot of racism and emotional abuse by other black africans in UK especially black women. So there you have it.. unfortunately no matter how the majority would love to live in a world that is equal…racism still exists and it comes from all colours towards all colours. Yes the Maltese tend to be racist towards black people (I know first hand) but they do give the chance to get to know you and once you prove yourself that you are no trouble maker and no bum they will treat you just the same,but if you chose to live like a savage and cause problem to others…..then you’re going to be treated as such
words can’t tell mate ..
How easy is it getting a job, especially for foreigners in Malta
Learn the language well, get used to the local customs, live happily ever after. While some things changed with EU, others are as it used to be in the good old days.
If you fail to achieve your goal the first time, try and try again. If someone refuses you a service today, try tomorrow with someone else.
Nothing here is written in stone. While one person may treat you unkindly because you are a foreigner, another will make you a favour because you are a foreigner. Show respect and you will be treated with respect.
Have patience, don’t rush things but do not neglect things either. Be persistent, keep pushing the tasks at hand, things will happen.
EU brought price hikes and triple bureaucracy, we are just another southern EU country trying to survive Merkel’s dictatorship.
Merkel’s dictatorship – hahaha! Maybe you should get a bit educated and not extract your knowledge from tabloids. Merkel and Germany were incredibly helpful to us Irish when the US bubble burst. They, together with some other better governed countries, have bailed us all out. Now calling her dictator is outrageous. England on the other hand had us starve to death just a couple of decades earlier. Thanks for considering. Sorry for going off topic.
how can you call one of the most democratic leaders in Europe a Dictator ?
At least you have rights in Germany as a European Citizen and they are respected in any way .. no german can harm you because he is german like her in Malta.
Merkel didnt need to have offshore companies and ask her bank to move her money in the night with suitcases or documents … like your PM does and his government.
She is accountable for every action she takes .. not like your scammy Politicans who do what they want.
Calling her a Dictator just prroves the point that you are not the smartest
Well Said Chris, I agree
I have been holidaying in Malta for the last 8 years, it takes time to get use to their ways and customs but are very good people, most are friendly, some still rip you off. (Australia)
the only issue I have:
it´s impossible to find out the NI bank account to send them the monthly contributions
I have an NI number, but I am obliged to pay a private health insurance though having an official NI number.
And, just because it´s impossible to find out the NI bank account :o(
NB: I am self employed but once was employed in Malta; in case someone might ask why my employer doesn´t pay for me. I am my own employer ;o)
Hejo
you accountant can pay your NI contribution .. at least mine does.
Hello, feel quite safe asking things on here, basically my partner and I are approaching 60 and are looking to come to buy in Malta. We won’t need to work, have significant capital, don’t want to drive so in no hurry to get anywhere. My parents have been coming to Malta for 25 years and have many friends they can introduce us to on Malta and Gozo. Been looking around and there are some lovely apartments we can afford. No landlord worries. Is there a form of Council Tax there? My partner is a painter, if he wanted to sell his paintings locally, would he need a permit? I saw “don’t open a bank account in Malta” so can one retain funds in the UK, or is it better to use a bank on the Island? 60 is hardly ancient and we are both quite fit, but with no dependents, we can stay there for many years if we like it, what sort of provision do they make for say Nursing Home care 25 years down the line, is there any?
I’ve lived in Malta 3 years ….I like to send u private message how can we do this .. but any way here is my mobile 07761108646
this # not working
I’m a white South African and I’ve been living here for nearly a year. I have found it easy to integrate with some Maltese. I agree with the pros and cons however, I disagree regarding rental amounts. I find it extremely expensive for rent and utilities including internet an tv.
The reason I highlighted the fact that I am white, the rasicm in this country toward my fellow (might add, extremely hard working ) African neighbors is disgraceful, common and acceptable! This is one of the only things that fume me!
Hi DDB.I am Motswana and considering moving to Malta.i have been self employed in almost 5 years doing filming and photography.my partner and I are considering Malta but having read some comments here,i am a little undecided now.for a you black African looking to explore the world,i am a little adamant as to whether pursue the idea of moving there.i do not have a problem with accomodation pricing but more concerned with the treatment given to fellow black Africans.
I realise you are into your 1st year.what do you recommend?
I am thinking of relocating with my mother and daughter
But like that very scared after those comments
Nobody replies either…..
:-///
KC … i will break it to you
there is only one thing Maltese hates more as Foreigners …
If they are from Africa .. and i have been told this by many many Maltese.
Not a good place
What did it cost you to get over there from SA and to set up there?
We are an American couple. We’re used to island life, having lived over 30 years on Guam. We’ll soon be retiring, and are investigating various places to live approximately half time, while maintaining our home here.
Is there anyone here who has had a similar “half-resident” sort of experience?
First I agree Maltese people are friendly and welcoming. Weather is amazing,
traffic is brutal, Police should enforce
with drinking and driving and use of mobile
while driving.Opening an account was very
challenging but I understand Bank policies
but staff was very helpful regards,any government services I used ie passport
where very helpful.Rent has increased
drastically,food is great,lots of fun places to go.I am Maltese Canadian I have considerd
moving here but miss my family in Toronto.
My experience I love Malta,the weather,entertainment,people,food the Festas.No place is perfect. Everyone is entitled to there feedback but no need to be
rude with your comments. Perhaps if one
has a cheap on there shoulder please drop
the attitude,this is my native land and
I love it. So if you don’t like living go back
to your country. Respect and appreciate
no matter where you live.
than move back to your beautiful country if u like it so much ?!?
you coming and tsaying for 2 weeks .. of course its great
How about to grow up first before commenting nonsense ?
Hi every body.
I am a medical Doctor (GP) from out of EU. I have the experience of living in the Philippines, and I do not have any problems with these cons about Malta. But I need some information if anybody can help, it would be appreciated. How can I evaluate my degree in Malta? Is there any chance for me to work and specialize in Malta? Are specialty courses in medicine in Malta paid as they are paid positions in other parts of EU?
I really appreciate if anybody can give me some good information.
I will probably move to Malta in the next year or two and would like to know what to expect. I’m Maltese-American, but I’ve never been to Malta. Looking at this thread and various other sources, I don’t think I’ll be worse off than where I am. Rents, utilities, and public transportation here are far more expensive, and food prices (which I’ve looked up on grocery store websites) are about the same. Landlords are landlords, and banks everywhere have rules that are hard to understand. I’m a bit over 60, living on a small pension, and probably won’t get a job, though I hope to learn the Maltese language. But I want to know if I’ll fit in. What do most Maltese people think about so many people coming there? Especially people like me who won’t be contributing much but will be taking up space? An “open-air museum” with lots of sunshine is my idea of paradise, especially since it’s much safer than where I am now. But it is someone else’s home. Candid responses will be appreciated.
you have a small pension.. not much money ?
You will not be welcomed here … and yes there will be many Maltese coming now and show off how nice they are … but I never ever in over 5 years have been invited to home of a Maltese.
If than move to Gozo .. they are greedy too but cost are way lower
Maltese people in a small brief.
Regionists (racists).
“Cosmopilitan” peasunts
Greedy.
Crazy.
Animals
Selfish.
Reckless drivers
Malta !
By far the worse country I’ve lived in, and as the Maltese say in retalliation, don’t like it, leave ! Their attitude to everything. All the comments above are true, close minded attitude.
Polluted and noisy streets. No nature whatsoever other than dry rock. Highest rates of obesity in the EU for children. Maltese rude greedy nationalist mentality ( every Maltese person thinks that malta is the greatest country to have ever existed ) so literally no point arguing with them. Let them keep their opinions. Poor customer service. And the way people drive is just the perfect example of the mentality. Essentially no f%#ks given 😉 Not to mention the only country I know where everyone drives drunk, not a safe place for children.
3 years on the island and visits every year for 28 years, I’m half Maltese, would never go back unless it’s really an emergency.
Low budget European désobstruons held together by the gaming company and tourist industry. The parts of beauty malta does have is ruined by the construction that is apsolutely everywhere. Malta 20 years ago was paradise, today you couldn’t pay me enough to vacation there let alone live there. If you want untouched meditteranean beauty with sophisticated people ( and manners !! ) stick to the Italian and French Riviera.
Sadly I have to agree with you
Right on the Money …
its getting more and more worse by each day ..
Thanks for the heads up. I’m skeptical to a fault.
Wow.
Visited Malta recently, my Maltese sister-in-law was in tears at the destruction of her country. Everywhere you see cranes and the constant noise and dust from building. We were talking to a Maltese lady who had lost the beautiful panoramic views of the countryside and sea to greedy developers. I was charged 9 Euro’s for a pint Of orange juice on the Sliema front, it appears the Maltese owners of bars and restaurants have sold out to the highest bids from east Europeans. We have friends in Marsaskala, again this once beautiful place has been blighted by developments, they have had a miserable time dealing with in built bureaucratic hurdles around utilities and residency permits, having said that they are very happy, they have integrated with the local community. We have been looking to settle in the med, my Maltese wif put her foot down and said no to Malta.
Banking: Gosh, we have had nothing but a nightmare dealing with HSBC Malta. I would suggest all expats avoid banking there. We have been trying to access a healthy amount of money we have in our bank account there for months. It’s criminal what they are putting us through; bordering on harassment and goes far beyond vetting for criminal activities.
Please i need someone to tell me about which banks to avoid and which to work with plus how much do apartments cost in msida or swatar
Over the last 40 years I have been a regular visitor to Malta; always pining to get back there, however during my last visit only a few weeks ago, I feel Malta & Gozo are starting to lose their identify, too many foreigners, sorry to say. whilst this most probably is a positive thing for the Maltese, as someone with Maltese heritage, it certainly has not made me feel homesick as it once did.
Hi, my husband has the opportunity to take a job in Malta. We have three small children 6,7&8 years old. We currently live in the highlands of Scotland mostly off grid, we have electricity, but everything else is oil fired, we have 2mb internet speed, and long narrow roads with lots of roaming animals that like to jump out at you! we are north of Inverness and this is normal, so much of what you have described is not overly concerning me as inane lived here 10years now and adapted from my life in London, however, I would be interested on some feedback on the following…. Rather than electric heat in winter is there much support on the island for wood burning stoves? What is the cost of peyrol /deisel and is this fairly stable? How easy is it to find Maltese language classes for adults? Are the schools supportive of children who are not bilingual and does anyone have experience on how they are supported during Maltese lessons?
Hi Claire,
Wondering if you have indeed moved to Malta, considering a move myself and looking to find if some of the very disturbing comments on here about living conditions, are in fact true?
I am from Scotland too, my wife and I will be hoping to both live and work to retirement, setting up home and hopefully enjoying a lifestyle of sorts.
Interested to hear your settling in experiences?
Kind regards,
Bill
Claire, I enjoy the sun baked limestone of Malta and the Maltese, but… One point about wood burning stoves on Malta – there are none. “Why?”, you might ask – because there is no wood. It’s literally a smallish rock. Everything is built using stone quarried from that smallish rock. The only green sticks up here and there from cracks in the rock. If you ‘need’ green all the time, you won’t be happy there.
Hello,
Sounds like a very nice place. I am curious about immigration laws and how non-white immigrants are treated in this country. Are they welcoming people of all races or just caucasian?
Hey!
In Malta organic food is very very expensive. Also other organic stuff like shower costs three times more then in Germany. Also the quality. In 80% of all local products EU found poison rates higher then allowed. In 20% they found illegal poison.
If you compare the rent, then you have to pay in Msida the same rate as in Cologne south. The quality of Cologne is much higher in the south as in the rest of Cologne. But the quality of the flat is more like in Colognes migrant areas. So you have to pay like in a luxurious area but get the quality of the badest areas.
Then lets talk about the wast. Anywhere on the streets you have waste. If you go shopping, you always get a plastic bag even when you already put you own bag on the table, first you got plastic and then you can but it in to yours.
As I was reading all the comments, I found out most of people going to Malta are cheap and try to get something or maybe I’m wrong no disrespect to anyone . If you are going to a new country doesn’t mean you have to use and abuse the country and their people. You have to contribute to the country and their people so that way Malta can provide benefits to newcomers and existing people, I’m sure there is so many greedy people in Malta so as everywhere else, try to find way to show Malta, foreigners are no different then them. I have never been in Malta but I was in 75 countries, from my experience, there no bad place on earth but we are the one making it good or bad. Just be kind to each other and enjoy the sun I wish one day I can visit Malta. God bless
You are so right …
By the end of the day is a lovely island. If you decide to relocate feel free to contact me on 0035677134023 Bob.
How do Maltese people treat American natives? Do you have to learn Maltese in order to be accepted or can you get along only speaking English? If there are issues with landlords is it easier to just purchase a home here? What cities are the nicest to foreigners? Thank you!!
Hey! There aren’t many native Americans here but the ones I know haven’t experienced any racism so far, plus we’re usually very friendly to foreigners so I’d say overall, quite good. Most of us speak English so you’ll get by, but most of us speak Maltese as a first language and you could end up being left out of conversations when with groups of Maltese speakers (happens to my foreign friends sometimes), but all-in-all it’s easy to cope with just English. Buying a house is expensive here, I’d recommend looking at some real estate sites and observing prices before deciding whether to rent or buy a home. In my personal opinion, Gozo (the smaller island in the archipelago) is a good place for foreigners, especially the areas around Marsalforn, Qbajjar and Victoria since people here seem very friendly to foreigners there. In Malta (the island, not the country) there are more English-speakers in the north of the island, so choosing a city in the north could save you the trouble of learning Maltese.
Good luck if you’re planning on moving to Malta!
Very interesting article! For me moving to Malta was one of the best decision I have ever made! Now, it’s not an island/country that suits everyone and there is indeed some cons that I have personally experienced:
I. Regarding the friendliness and hospitality, I have to disagree – coming from Portugal I was very disappointed by the service and hospitality of the Maltese People. Indeed, I got high-end restaurants managers being rude to me in St. Julian’s/Sliema to the point they were asking our table of 15 (mostly expats) to leave the restaurant because it was 11 PM and they wanted to close (in summertime with a group of 15 people consuming!). They didn’t even ask us if we wanted dessert or coffee. Just “here is the bill, now pay and leave” kind of style. And no, we were not being jerks or drunk, we were simply a group of 15 civilized adults.
Coming from Portugal where restaurants close only when the last customer decides to leave, It took me a while to get used to the “Maltese way”.
I met extremely friendly people but they were not Maltese, I met amazing Lybians, Greeks, and Brazilians. Only after living 1 year in Malta, I managed to have Maltese friends.
In terms of pricing, Malta is expensive if you want to live in Sliema/St. Julian’s areas which are the expat zone.
I remember paying €850 for a 1 modern bedroom apartment in Sliema (pro it had a huge terrace, cons I could never use it because of constructions in the next apartment) + €80 for water, elec, and internet. Which is basically the same price than the 1 bedroom of my parents in Paris.
If you are an entrepreneur, like me, Malta is really great in terms of taxes and if you travel a lot (like me) then you definitely don’t mind to come back home and enjoy the quiet and relaxed lifestyle.
Overall my experience has been very positive and being such a business-friendly country, what can I ask more?
Hello! I am thinking about moving to Malta in the next 2 years, I am romanian but I live in the UK,my partner and my baby are british. What documents do I need, like national insurance number, what’s the application process and how long does it take? I have seen 2 bedroom apartments around 400-500 euro which suits me but I am not sure about the jobs as I don’t speak maltese, do I need to take some lessons just to make sure I will find a job or there is many international companies that will employ me just speaking english? I am a photographer but I have experience in many industries as well. Thank you!
Hi Aubrey, Malta has a lot of expats. The majority of people working in service and hospitality in 2018 are expats. If you stay in the expats’ area which is Sliema-St. Julian’s-Portomaso area you will be just fine.
Houses are very expensive here: a modern apartment with some quality in Sliema/St.Julians/Portomaso (real estate quality here is very bad so be sure to buy something in a new and modern building) will cost you at least 1 million euros.
Renting is so much easier, just be smart. Don’t be naive otherwise they will eat you alive. My first apartment in Sliema was a 1 bedroom modern apartment at 1 minute from the beach, first asking price was €1,000. I proposed 800. We closed at 850. We did a fair contract. And all was good.
Hello everyone! I am thinking about moving to Malta in the next 2 years, I am romanian but I live in the UK,my partner and my baby are british. What documents do I need, like national insurance number, what’s the application process and how long does it take? I have seen 2 bedroom apartments around 400-500 euro which suits me but I am not sure about the jobs as I don’t speak maltese, do I need to take some lessons just to make sure I will find a job or there is many international companies that will employ me just speaking english? I am a photographer but I have experience in many industries as well. Thank you!
After going through the comments. I believe every country has its Negative and Positive sides but i think we shouldn’t generalize it that the Country is Bad.
As human we see things differently and we should keep an Open Mind.
Thanks Guys it really nice reading all the Comments as i plan to visit MALTA pretty soon.
I come from South Africa, and my family is looking to relocate to Malta. We are EU citizens.
I’ve read the articles, some comments and many of them are quite disturbing… my country is in a quiet war at the moment, we have the highest crime rate in a non war state, we have a corrupt government and so much violent crime, that statistically, my 14 year old (white) daughter has more chance of being raped than employed.
My son will probably never get into university or get a job, based on his skin colour.
We have a crumbling infrastructure, no public transport we can use because our local taxis are violent and dangerous, my family spends over €800pm for private health care because the government hospitals are full and incompetent, €50pm on security, my kids can’t walk 850m to school because it’s not safe!
You can’t scare me with traffic, pick pocketing (read about SA crime stats).
If you are unhappy, you’re unhappy.
We however, plan to make the best of our new life….
My first visit to Malta was in 1962, dad was in the RAF and I was a military brat. My first view of Malta was from the bow of the Sicily to Malta ferry (Dad drove through Europe to get here) as the island slowly appeared on the horizon and the sea mist cleared the island slowly got larger and larger, this island was now to be my home for the next three years, I attended RN School Tal Handaq and my life here was like a dream, their was countryside, no beach hotels, wine and beer was really cheap and even the roads weren’t that bad and the old buses were amazing and a joy to ride.
I have been coming back every three years or so since 1965 for a holiday and the students from Tal Handaq still gather here for a re-union every four years or so and we gathered again last year as two old school friends decided to return and get married here.
I remember sending a post card to my girlfriend (Olive) when I first arrived in Malta as she obviously wanted to know what it was like. I wrote ‘it is the finest pile of rubble I have ever seen’. It still is folks just more of it, one day they will finish what they started.
In conclusion, I now live and work here, why did I come back, I love it, the people, the place the character of Malta, the history etc etc etc, so in spite of all the different opinions it is a great place to live and be happy in, all you need is patience, understanding and tolerance.
Malta is like Marmite!
Thank you Malta
Hi everybody !
Malta for me is fantastic..Iam living here 10 year..
Regards,
Agnes
I am a working bus driver in the UK and I’m considering relocating to Malta to work for Malta Public Transport. Does anyone have any advice regarding this job, and how much I might pay for a decent one-bedroomed apartment in the Saint Julian’s area?
Many comments here. Anyone can say few things about recent wages of IT related jobs compared with the cost of living? Also how easy it is to socialize with people?Foreigners and locals?
Hi, could do with some advice in moving to Malta to work. I am 58 still fit and strong. I have have skills in the construction industry mainly bricklaying and have more work experiences such as bar work. But in the main am a good, honest, reliable and hard working person with references to back it up. Just wondering if my age is a problem, some people in Malta said (when I was there) said it wouldn’t be. Would appreciate any advice.
Inormative, thank you for your honesty, you just saved lives!!!!
If you are thinking of moving to Malta DON’T DO IT. Having been here for 25 years I have seen its decline from a quaint friendly place to the corrupt over-populated dirty construction site it is today. There are far better places in the world and, as it is no longer cheap, your money will go further elsewhere.
Amen!
Hi all, my partner and I plus the two kids are thinking of moving to Malta in September 2019 on a year or 2 out we want to get away from Dublin Ireland because the hustle and bustle each day stealth taxes, not seeing the kids and everything else going on over here. We have 2 small kids and Aldo I have a small pension at 53 I still am employed as a landscaper and my partner is a teacher we would like to pick up any employment in our field part time or full time, We acknowledged all the pros and cons fair enough 50/50 but life is what you make of it that counts. Any feed back would be most grateful reference schooling,price on renting presently and employment
There is no magic place in this world, you have to choose the most convenient if you are not willing to live in your country of origin. I live in Malta since five years, basically several important points have to be considered:
-Do not live in a house without central heating.
-The wind is pratically permanent N-O, good if you li’e sailing!
-If you have a cancer under treatment, best evaluate your country vs Malta before deciding to move.
Like me you can return to the continent by car if flying is a problem, like in my case the dog…..that was once lost in Toulouse airport!
I do not see other major points, life is better in this small island if you look at these basics
I’ve been living in Malta for 4 years and now it’s time to leave the rock. This place is unbearable. Although I have met some dear friends, I’m so disappointed that I prefer not to say more about this place.
Malta may like those arriving from the third world or fleeing their country.
[…] speaking, the smaller the country is the higher the cost of living will be. For example, if you are thinking about moving to Malta you will find that a pack of Digestives costs three times more than back in […]
Malta is officially known as a Mickey Mouse country, as in the Maltese song, “Pajjiż tal-Mickey Maws”
…however it feels like a proper 3rd world country.
Why?
The roads in Malta are like in Zambia Africa. It feels like going on a Safari on 3 wheels.
Stinky stray cats everywhere, whining and meowing at night.
Stinky 30 year old diesel cars, spitting black smoke and polluting the air like a Beijing factory.
Full of obese Maltese people, 40% of all children are obese in Malta, number one in the EU.
Junk food everywhere, healthy food is overpriced because it comes from import.
Malta has no water, the tap water is not safe to drink in Malta.
Houses have no insulation, if its 10 degrees outside, its 10 degrees inside!
All Maltese Banks are fraudulent scams, facilitating money laundering on big scale, while punishing the little man. Satabank a dodgy Maltese bank was “frozen” by the corrupt Maltese government.
Dodgy igaming companies and foreigners working the online gambling industry.
The only foreign investment in the country.
Backwards and narrow-minded mentality, spiked with catholic fanaticism and greed!
The Maltese government is actually selling Maltese passports, via dodgy investment schemes,
and golden visa programs.
Malta is the most corrupt country in the EU, together with Italy, Romania and Bulgaria.
The only nice thing is the Sea…full stop!
Forgot to mention that Maltese women are ugly as f@ck,
Also the Maltese language sounds horrible, as its technically an Arabic language
Really? That’s strange, I know many beautiful Maltese women, myself included by the way, and a lot of other foreigners seem to agree with me on that.
Maltese is a beautiful language, it’s not Arabic, but it does takes some influence from it. What does it even mean for a language to ‘sound horrible’?
Honestly, you are being extremely disrespectful. If you decide to move to a country, it should go without saying that you should be willing to respect the local people and their language, culture, etc. Perhaps if you aren’t willing to do that, you could do us Maltese a favor and leave.
“Maltese is descended from Siculo-Arabic, a Semitic language within the Afroasiatic family” (from wikipedia)
Indeed, woman are ugly as f@ck and hairier than a Portuguese truck driver. No offence.
Dear Mari S.
I’m from Tunisia and I can understand half of Maltese language
Maltese is a semitic language, not just influenced by Arabic. The Maltese is a Siculo-Arabic language.
I’m surprised you didn’t learn that in school!
“Maltese is descended from Siculo-Arabic, a Semitic language within the Afroasiatic family” (from wikipedia)
Maltese is an Arabic language with many Italian and English loan words.
“Ir-raġel qiegħed fid-dar” (The man is in the house), is easily understood by any Arabic speaker 🙂
[…] So I’ve been studying up and got all jazzed up reading this seemingly unbiased ‘Pros and Cons of Moving to Malta‘ list. Now only if the Maltese Embassy in Australia would reply to my email where I asked a […]
Hi, I’m a foreigner, thinking of moving to Malta, I need advice on what it is like to get a job there ,and their immigration laws, work permit, etc
“Maltese are also some of the most stubborn people that I’ve ever met If someone’s formed their opinion about something, then it’s virtually impossible to change this opinion – regardless of how hard you try or how many facts you have backing you up.”
This is not being stubborn… it is being a pure IGNORANT!
Banking is not unlike other countries. The difference is that Malta does not have any state-owned banks. Traditional privately owned banks have high costs and try to avoid customers that come with potentially high risks. Foreigners naturally mean a higher risk or background checks are more expensive. The answer is get an IBAN savings account and a debit card at a pseudo-bank (ie. not a full bank) or find an exclusive bank with high monthly fees.
The same goes for business accounts. Other countries are much more open regarding this and offshore accounts are fairly easy to get. Once you have your business running and can provide bank statements, Maltese banks should be easier as well. The only question is why you would still want a Maltese account then. ^_^
I wouldn’t say there is that much bureaucracy in Malta. Many things are pretty straight forward. I cannot say how it is with starting an LTD but self-employment is certainly much easier than elsewhere. What makes it difficult sometimes is the above-mentioned perceived stubbornness though I think in most cases it’s simply inefficiency and inadequate training. You can end up talking in circles where point A leads to B and then C and eventually back to A without getting anywhere. In that case, however, you’re most likely talking to the wrong person anyway.
Avoid banking in Malta AT ALL COSTS. Its just not worth it. The corruption is rife and only becomes apparent when you try and exit the system. I currently have a case in progress against a large Maltese bank. I also banked with another corporate banking provider. It didn’t end well. My current providers in the country where I live now are great and I have not had an ounce of trouble.
I lived and worked n the iGaming sector in Malta for 18 months. I loved the buzz of the place and got along very well with my Maltese colleagues. Its not cheap to live but the life is good. However, I must warn everyone about all their broadband providers and the banks.
You will find it very easy to get internet installed and open a bank account. However, when trying to close an internet account or bank account, I had my deposit stolen by my internet provider and I am about to lodge a complaint regarding the national bank to the European Banking Authority because they are not allowing me to close my account and repatriate my money. No reasons given, just endless delays and lies. Same experience I had with the internet provider. I had huge issues with my business account in Malta. I would never bank there again.
They are are tiny island and this allows huge inefficiencies to thrive in their service providers and because its a captive audience, no effort is made to improve these providers. Beware if you move to this lovely island that you don’t get caught out. To my knowledge it happens to nearly everyone.
Saying “yes” to Malta is an easy choice. Thousands of digital nomads and other expats have made the move and are successfully running their own companies or working for Maltese operations here.
Wow! Powerful article @Admin,thumbs up.
Please people,I’m a black African,interested in the Maltese Golden visa scheme,what are my chances of acquiring the Maltese citizenship??
I’ll appreciate unbiased information please,thanks guys for pointing out your various Malta experiences.
Best regards,
Wolfe..
very interesting details you have remarked, regards for posting.
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May Love Lead The Way…
Many of the above positive comments are true, but then, so are many of the negative ones. Right now there is a terrible political crisis in Malta, which escalated with the murder of a journalist who exposed corruption practices in the Maltese government. No man, don’t go there – even the Maltese are unhappy to be Maltese, such is their embarrassment among other EU countries.
Thanks for the sensible critique. Me & my neighbor were just preparing to do some research on this. We got a grab a book from our local library but I think I learned more from this post. I am very glad to see such magnificent information being shared freely out there.
I 100% agree and i have never seen as much Greed as in Malta either and I have lived i 4 Countries. You have also forgotten to mention the EXTREME racism against black people, but then again they hate every foreigner. The Ideal would be if you give them your paycheck and live abroad. Stuck in the past century as with technology. They starting now with double glazing which is an over 50 year old technology, by now is 5x glazing and solar windows and not double glazing. It is an developing country unwilling to learn about the world or to reach the 21st century. They claim they don’t need insulation, because the lack of knowledge as luck of knowledge in so many other areas. Insulation protects from heat as well. Igaming does not need Malta there are other countries in Malta who offer the same intensives in Europe. Starting with Cyprus, Ireland and Poland. I am certain that places like Spain, Romania and others will come up with special tax offers. Not to forget that “us” foreigners talk about whats going on in Malta and it is getting harder and harder for IGaming to find language employees. Because the employees do not want to be treated like walking ATM machines and there is no point for them to come to Malta if up to 80% of their income goes to accommodation.
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I read your articles and found it very informative, some people look at the CON’S , well I believe in the Poker saying , You can only play the CARDS that are dealt to you.
My wife and I are going to Retire , and I hope Malta is not going to disappoint us. We both hold dual citizenship IRISH / U.S……..English / U.S. We live in Florida, we enjoy it very much, but there are 1000 people moving to FL. So that has us wanting a lifestyle that Malta offers. Rent a good house and bring our 2 Labradors, to look after us. Hopefully we will mett some great people and live an non Alcoholic life…. James Hoban.
I live a very happy life in Malta, and as long as Malta continues to pay me 150k/year + so many extras, life will always stay absolutely great. Cheap food, cheap accommodation, cheap Thai massage, cheap cars, cheap second hand boats, great weather, great landscapes. It lacks of sexy women, but after a few heavy drinks, every woman looks as a top model. To keep it simple: when your income is great, you can easily be happy even in a sh@thole like Romania or Moldova. Malta is awesome anyway. Sunglasses are also very cheap.
Hi Bern,
Thank you for sharing your post. What kind of work do you do to get paid such a high salary? I bet you work for a gaming company.
It’s fake lol
Hi from Argentina… How about buying a property there in Malta…? Is it a convenient investement? A possible place for retirement? Or working online???
Hello Sandy !
“A possible place for retirement? Or working online???”
Yes, but I recommend to consider and to wait for the outcome of the pandemic, as it has already and will for sure also have an impact on life, work and housing in Malta; as anywhere
else on planet earth.
Up to about less than two weeks ago everything went pretty fine for Malta, but things are changing now (Malta just reached an R2 level and literally all major events were cancelled within days); also as anywhere else on planet earth.
I myself planned to move to France or Italy by the end of the year or in 2021; but unlike there: we were quite free to move here and as I am working online (your question) I could mitigate the impact for myself, though I earned almost nothing for about 3 months. The lockdown was / is a worldwide event, and my clients in France, Italy, Germany and Switzerland had almost zero work for me for about 3 months. So anybody moving to another country should take this into consideration, wherever youz plan to retire – even on the ISS or in Antarctica, which is not too far away from Ushuaia or Tierra del Fuego / Argentina.
Another issue is: moving to another country might be much more difficult these days and as the pandemic keeps on going and as no one can really plan safe zones / countries.
As said above: I reccomend to wait for 2021 or even 2022.
Tislijiet minn Malta
It always fascinated me, reading through comment sections! It always mirrors the attitude and aptitude of a person and willingness to respect, adopt and tolerate where you are and surrounded by and with.
About me, I’m Steffan, a German national and have traveled the world for almost 50 years. I have worked in all those places I have been, and it is easier for to list the countries I haven’t been!
If you go to a country to live and work there and are expecting to be treated and respected at home without adopting to the local style of living – yes, you are screwed, hated, disrespected, ignored and not welcome at all – that is as plain and simple as it is!! I always have learned the local languages – simple phrase like, good morning, good afternoon, thank you, please, would you …, could you … and the like. It opens gates, not just doors! Because you demonstrate, that you are willing to learn and to respect and tolerate where you are. You will be treated as one of them and they are more than willing to help!! Ask nicely and you will receive. If you demand, you will be dumped! And give them time to get known to you – you are not at home, with your friends!
Back to me, I have been in the US for the last 23 years. Time to retire, and I’m heading toward Malta. I do not have a certain location in mind. Only know about Malta from what’s on the Internet. I will arrive on September 24th and will be one week in a hotel in Valetta, as a starting point. Any suggestions where and what to look for? I’m just by myself. With the job I had I clouding all the traveling, there was no time and space for a family 😉
Look forward to meet and great my new home.
Thanks
Steffan
I really don’t see why anyone would want to retire in Malta. Go to Spain or Italy.
And if friendly words opened gates for you in the past, don’t expect that to be the case when you deal with government agencies in most of Europe. Only persistence and complaints will nudge the doors little by little. Of course, the private sector in Malta is much worse than that. Service providers like banks, insurance companies all exist in a parallel universe here.
No… seriously, retiring in Malta makes absolutely no sense. There is a reason why 4/7 of all Maltese people don’t live in Malta.
Last but not least ….
“It is your language and your behavior, whom you attract and repel!”
It is you and only you – never the others 😉
You are the guest, asking to be at home!
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certain approximately my problem. You are incredible!
Thanks!
I have been living in Malta for almost 2 years and I am overall satisfied and happy. The Maltese I have known are extremely friendly and generous. Nobody has ever tried to rip me off. Most Maltese people are also against this gambling industry coming to Malta and their country being blacklisted. Of course, it helps when you speak Maltese. I came here for my husband’s job and he has the best experience ever with his current work. The weather is always nice and mostly sunny. However, we have been slightly unfortunate as we live in Birkirkara and there is construction next to our building and the constant drilling is not pleasant as you can imagine. We are going to Valletta, where there is hardly any traffic and construction is not allowed in the historic center.
Also, the best fruit I have ever tried in my life is from this island. I am originally from Spain and my husband Dutch.
We will be staying 2 more years and then we will leave.
I have been living in Malta for almost 2 years and I am overall satisfied and happy. The Maltese I have known are extremely friendly and generous. Nobody has ever tried to rip me off. Most Maltese people are also against this gambling industry coming to Malta and their country being blacklisted. Of course, it helps when you speak Maltese. I came here for my husband’s job and he has the best experience ever with his current work. The weather is always nice and mostly sunny. However, we have been slightly unfortunate as we live in Birkirkara and there is construction next to our building and the constant drilling is not pleasant as you can imagine. We are going to Valletta, where there is hardly any traffic and construction is not allowed in the historic center.
Also, the best fruit I have ever tried in my life is from this island. I am originally from Spain and my husband Dutch.
We will be staying 2 more years and then we will leave.
Thanks for your nice description about Malta. actually I’m thinking to go for work in Malta. Still now I’m confused, will i move or not!!! plz help me out, and give me more info about this country.
Thanks to all of you💞
Hi Bern,
Thank you for sharing your post. What kind of work do you do to get paid such a high salary? I bet you work for a gaming company.
Hi Bern,
Thank you for sharing your post. What kind of work do you do to get paid such a high salary? I bet you work for a gaming company.
[…] inviernos en Malta son cálido, Con pocas temperaturas bajando de 50°F. Pero, ya que no hay calefacción central ni aislamiento […]
[…] in Malta are warm, with temperatures rarely falling below 50°F. But since there is no central heating or thermal […]
Thanks for your nice description about Malta. actually I’m thinking to go for work in Malta. Still now I’m confused, will i move or not!!! plz help me out, and give me more info about this country.
Thanks to all of you💞
I want to move to Malta next and need a Maltese as a friend. I love Maltese people so much.
[…] na Malti su tople, a temperature rijetko padaju ispod 50°F (10°C). No, budući da nema centralnog grijanja ili […]
[…] digital nomad visa (e-Residency) – Malta’s cost of living is much higher than Estonia. Rent in popular “ex-pat areas” can be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, it doesn’t have good WiFi coverage or affordable mobile packages: You can expect […]
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[…] digital nomad visa (e-Residency) – Malta’s cost of living is much higher than Estonia. Rent in popular “ex-pat areas” can be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, it doesn’t have good WiFi coverage or affordable mobile packages: You can expect […]