Moving to Malta From the UK 2024

Malta has become an increasingly popular destination for British expats, with around 13,000 Brits living there in 2024. Our removals to Malta shipping service is among our most popular destinations, and we can see why!

Offering a slower pace of life, its Mediterranean climate, and English being an official language, there’s no surprise that Malta has an established and welcoming expat community. Both countries have a rich history connected by various cultural links. British influence is evident in Malta’s fascination with sports like football and rugby, along with similar celebrations and traditions.

If you’re moving to Malta from the UK, read our in-depth guide to discover everything you need to know. From getting the right visa to understanding the culture, we cover it all.

Why Move to Malta From the UK? 

Malta is a small island offering a strong community feel, especially towards expats and tourists. There is an established expat community across Malta, offering a warm welcome, so you won’t be alone. With stunning harbour views, a low cost of living and potential tax benefits, many people move to Malta for a slower pace of life. 

Malta Visas

UK to Malta visa You can travel from the UK to Malta without a Visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Since the UK left the EU through Brexit, for any stays longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a temporary residence permit via Identity Malta. 

Some popular visas include Ordinary Residence and Work Permit, although Retirement and Student Visas are available too.

Ordinary Residence 

An ordinary residence will give you residence status for up to 5 years. You’ll get an e-residence card that’ll hold your personal details, photo and fingerprints.  You can apply for ordinary residence through the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs in Malta. To do this you need to make an appointment via the Identity Malta website. 

You will need to have the following to apply:

• Proof of financial self-sufficiency
• Valid health insurance
• Valid UK passport 

The e-residence card offers many benefits that entice people to stay in Malta. It makes it easy to open a bank account in Malta and the process of buying and renting property is more accessible. You’ll also be eligible for cheaper utility bills and discounted bus tickets. 

Work Permit 

To be able to work in Malta, you’ll need to apply for a Type D visa. Commonly known as the Single Permit, this visa combines the work permit and residence permit to make the process of living and working in Malta easier. 

To apply, you’ll need to have a job offer in place and your employer will typically take care of the application, which can take several weeks. You’ll need to provide the following documents to be considered for a work permit:

• Valid UK passport
• Employment contract
• Necessary qualifications
• Valid health insurance 
• Proof of somewhere to live

Permanent Residence in Malta

To gain permanent residence status in Malta, you’ll need to have been living in Malta for 5 years continuously on a valid temporary residence permit. 

You’ll also need to show proof that you are involved in the community and Maltese society. This could be through social, cultural or community integration. You must not hold a serious criminal record and will need to get a police clearance certificate to prove this. You’ll also need to show that you can support yourself financially, without relying on any benefits. 

This type of visa will give you access to public healthcare and social services, receiving almost the same rights as you would with Maltese Citizenship. You can submit your application to the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs in Malta.

Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP)

You can also apply for permanent residency in Malta through the Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP). The criteria is the same as normal Permanent Residence but this type of visa requires high financial commitments. This allows you to enjoy a lower tax rate than Malta residents. 

To be considered for the Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP), you must commit to the following financial requirements: 

• Purchase a property in Malta for a minimum of €700,000 
• OR rent a property with a minimum annual rent of €16,000
• Donate a minimum of €10,000 to a charitable, cultural, scientific, sports, animal welfare, or artistic organisation that’s not government-affiliated. 
• Pay a minimum annual tax of €15,000
• Have valid comprehensive health insurance 
• Show proof of stable income.

Malta Citizenship

You can apply for Malta Citizenship by marriage, descent, naturalisation or exceptional services. A popular pathway for those willing and able to make significant financial investments in the Maltese economy is the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN). There are strict investment criteria to be met to quality for this type of Citizenship: 

• Direct investment of €600,000 or €750,000 after either 36 or 12 months of legal residence.
• Buy property in Malta for €700,000 or more or rent somewhere with an annual rent of €16,000. Whether you buy or rent, the property must be maintained for 5 years.
• Donate a minimum of €10,000 to support a local charity or organisation that isn’t government-related.  

Opening a Bank Account in Malta

UK nationals can open a bank account in Malta if they are residents. You can apply online with most banks or in the branch. To apply to open a bank account, you’ll need the following documents: 

• Be at least 18 years old 
• Valid residence visa
• Valid UK passport
• valid e-residence card
• Proof of address in Malta through 6 months of utility bills 

Once you’ve gathered the essential documents, you can complete the application form, either online or in-store, and make an appointment to open your bank account.

Work and Salaries in Malta

The average salary in Malta is €26,400 (£22,704) according to Malta’s National Statistics Office. This is 58% lower than the UK’s average of £35,880 according to the Office of National Statistics. 

In 2024, Malta’s job market is strong and diverse, particularly thriving in the financial and IT sectors. Unemployment rates are low compared to the EU average and there is a demand for people with skills in the IT, data analysis and engineering sectors. 

You can look for current job openings on websites like jobsinmalta and Indeed or look for local job listings where you are moving. 

Here’s a comparison of average salaries for some popular jobs in Malta and the UK. 

Job Title	Malta Salary	UK Salary
Software Developer	€59,000 (£50,740)	£46,648
Accountant	€30,000 (£22,200)	£36,868
Hotel Manager	€35,000 (£25,900)	£35,471
Senior Engineer	€45,000 (£33,300)	£51,149
English Language Teacher	€25,000 (£18,500)	£36,933
Doctor	€60,000 (£44,400)	£67,785
Data Analyst	€45,000 (£33,300)	£34,557
Real Estate Agent	€27,000 (£23,220)	£35,021
Paralegal	€26,000 (£22,360)	£25,037
Graphic Designer	€25,000 (£21,500)	£28,136

Taxes in Malta

The UK-Malta Double Taxation Agreement ensures that individuals and businesses are not taxed on the same income in both countries. This includes salaries, pensions, and dividends, so if you earn income in both countries, you won’t have to pay tax twice on the same earnings. For instance, if you are taxed on income in Malta, you can claim relief or a credit in the UK to offset this.

You will pay Income Tax on your earnings over €9,101 in Malta. The rate is 15% between  €9,101 to €14,500, 25% between €14,501 and €60,000 and 35% on anything over €60,000. 

There is also Value Added Tax (VAT) set at 18%, slightly lower than in the UK, with discounted rates on selected hotels, pharmaceutical products and international transactions. Capital Gains Tax and Stamp Duty must also be paid if you’re selling or buying property in Malta.

Residents of Malta will also have to pay 10% Social Security Contributions (SSC), which are comparable to National Insurance in the UK and are crucial for accessing benefits like healthcare in Malta. If you’re a worker relocating to Malta, check whether you need to make these contributions. Additionally, it’s beneficial to review your social security record in your home country to avoid any gaps in coverage.

Capital Gains Tax and Stamp Duty must also be paid if you’re selling or buying property in Malta.

Cost of Living in Malta

In 2024, the cost of living in Malta is 18.1% lower than in the UK. Although the average monthly salary is lower in Malta, you are making many notable savings with utilities, property and transport costs compared to UK prices. 

The cost of buying property is much lower in Malta and rental prices are around 31% cheaper too. Transport costs are significantly more affordable in Malta, with a monthly travel pass costing just £12. The cost of groceries and eating out costs roughly the same. 

We’ve looked at everyday items and utilities in both Malta and the UK to provide a cost comparison.

Item	Malta	UK
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre	€947.03 (£814.84)	£1,071.06
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre	€3,653.34 (£3,144.88)	£4,971.94
Monthly salary after tax	€2,203.85 (£1,897.31)	£2,412.36
3 course meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant	€70 (£60.20)	£60
1 litre of milk	€1.10 (£0.95)	£1.24
1kg chicken fillets	€8.01 (£6.89)	£6.63
Monthly travel pass	€15 (£12.90)	£70
Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment	€91.71 (£78.78)	£246.16
Monthly gym membership	€56.85 (£48.87)	£32.90
Monthly private preschool	€493.03 (£424.21)	£1,263.35

Property Prices in Malta

Buying property as a non-EU national with residence status comes with additional steps compared to citizens or EU nationals. You need to meet additional criteria and may need to obtain an Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit. This will depend on the type and location of the property, so it’s advised to do your research before committing.

As a resident, you’ll have an easier process of getting a mortgage and better access to properties, such as those in Special Designated Areas (SDAs). These are areas that foreign buyers are allowed to purchase from.

Both the rental and buying markets in Malta are in demand. Renting is popular with short-term visitors, students, and expats due to its flexibility and low financial commitment. The buying market is popular with international investors and local citizens. The average house price in Malta is €357,030 (£307,000) for a 2-bedroom apartment or €1,741 (£1,496) per month in rent. Buying and rental prices vary across the country and in-demand areas such as Valletta, Sliema and St. Julian’s have high asking prices. Look at properties in areas like Birkirkara and Marsascala for more affordable prices.

When searching for property in Malta, consider asking local residents as they can provide valuable insights about neighbourhoods and amenities. They can guide you towards areas that offer the best value for your money and advise on places to avoid. Additionally, many expats have found success through online forums dedicated to helping individuals find housing in Malta. You can browse current listings on websites like propertymarket, and Rightmove or talk to local real estate agents.
  

Item	Malta	UK
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre	€947.03 (£814.84)	£1,071.06
Monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartment outside of centre	€788.60 (£678.60)	£857.57
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre	€1,627.33 (£1,399.41)	£4,971.94
Price per m2 to buy apartment outside of city centre	€1,235.98 (£1,063.54)	£3,778.24

Where to Live in Malta

The process of buying a house is similar to the UK. You’ll need to make an offer through a real estate agent and hire a lawyer to carry out checks. Stamp Duty also needs to be paid which is typically 5% of the property price.

Choosing where to live in Malta will depend on your preferences and budget. Areas like St Julian’s offer a bustling nightlife and social scene, but this comes with higher property prices. With a more suburban feel and affordable housing options, Birkirkara might be for you.

We’ve listed some areas that offer something for everyone, from affordable housing to harbourside views. 

1. St. Julian’s –  St Julian’s is a popular place town in Malta offering something for everyone. It’s famous for its dining scene, boutique shops and cultural events, with popular districts including Paceville, Spinola Bay, and Portomaso. 
   
   It’s a popular town for tourists, with tourism making up a large part of the economy. It can get busy during the summer months. You can typically find locals living in the Spinola Bay or Balluta Bay areas. Its vibrant nightlife, excellent culinary scene, good transport links and stunning views all make St Julian’s a sought-after location. Property prices are high and in demand from wealthy locals and property investors.
   
   A 2-bedroom home in St Julian’s costs roughly €850,000 to €1,650,000 (£730,000 to £1,420,000). You can expect to pay between €1,500 and €2,500 (£1,290 to £2,150) per month in rent for a 2-bedroom apartment. If you’re after a luxury apartment or penthouse, the price will rise to around €3,000 to €5,000 (£2,580 to £4,300).
   
   
2. Birkirkara – Birkirkara is a large town in Malta offering a suburban, family-friendly feel. The town is less bustling than towns like St Julian’s or Sliema which are known for their nightlife, making property more affordable. Offering a quieter way of life, Birkirkara boasts good schools, plenty of green space and excellent transport links. Steeped in rich history, you’ll also find plenty of traditional Maltese architecture around the town. 
   
   A 2-3 bedroom home in Birkirkara costs roughly from €300,000 to over €500,000 (£261,000 to £435,000), depending on the size and location. You can rent a 1-bedroom apartment in the town for €800 to €1,200 (£696 to £1,044) per month. 2-beds average at €1,200 and €1,800 (£1,044 to £1,566) per month.
   
   
3. Marsascala – For those after a picturesque and charming seaside town in Malta, Marsascala is for you. Although it’s further from the business hubs and central urban areas, Marsascala has everything you need from medical facilities to restaurants. Offering a relaxed lifestyle, stunning harbour views and more affordable housing options, Marsascala is set away from the hustle and bustle of bigger towns. 
   
   You can rent a small to medium home in the area for around €1,500 to €2,500 (£1,305 to £2,175) per month. To buy a property in Marsascala, it’ll cost you €400,000 to €600,000 (£348,000 to £522,000) for a modern, medium-sized home in a desirable area.
   
   
4. Swieqi –  Swieqi is a residential area in Malta that’s popular with expats, local families and young professionals. Close to central Malta, Swieqi is a quiet, family-friendly area that’s still near more vibrant areas such as St  Julian’s. Swieqi is well connected by road and bus, with nearby St Julian’s for more advanced transport links. The area has both public and private international schools, making it an ideal area for expat families.
   
   Property prices are higher in Swieqi due to demand from expats and there has been development in recent years to create luxury homes and apartments. The average cost to buy a medium home in the area is between €500,000 and €800,000 (£435,000 to £696,000).

Education in Malta

There are both private and public schools in Malta, with many primary schools instructing in either Maltese or English. Private schools tend to follow the British curriculum and typically instruct bilingually. 

Primary education starts at around 5 years old and up until 12 years old when secondary school begins. Secondary education includes state, church, and private schools, with some private schools even offering GCSEs like the UK. Compulsory secondary education ends at 16, but students can attend sixth form and study A-levels, like in the UK. Many Maltese students go on to attend the University of Malta, which offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a range of topics. 

There are also international schools in Malta, but these are typically private schools that come with fees. International private school fees range from €4,000 to over €15,000, depending on the school and location. Some schools include the International School of Malta (ISM), St. Martin’s College and Chiswick House School & St. Martin’s College.

Healthcare in Malta

Malta’s healthcare system offers high-quality care for all and is highly ranked in Europe by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Malta offers both public and private healthcare systems, with their public healthcare system funded through taxes. Maltese citizens, residents and EU nationals alike contribute via the social security system and the amount paid is based on income. This gives those living in Malta access to free or low-cost healthcare services. 

Similar to the UK, there are private healthcare facilities available via insurance or out-of-pocket payments. Private healthcare in Malta provides shorter waiting times, better access to specialist treatment and professionals and a better bed-to-population ratio due to lower demand to pay. 

If you’re staying in Malta for a short period while you work, you’ll need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This will entitle you to necessary healthcare services and treatments.

If you’re staying in Malta long-term or permanently, you’ll need to do the following to access the public healthcare system: 

• Register as a resident of Malta
• Obtain your e-residence card
• Register and contribute to the Maltese Social Security system 
• Have valid health insurance while you’re on a temporary resident visa.   

Social Security tax contributions are typically 10% of your income before tax, then your employer will pay the remaining 10%. This goes up to a 15% contribution if you’re self-employed. 

Lifestyle and Culture in Malta

Maltese is the primary language spoken in Malta, and English is an official language that is widely spoken. Most citizens are bilingual, but having a basic understanding of the Maltese language will help you integrate into the community. 

The Maltese people are known for their hospitality, especially towards visitors and expats. The island offers a close-knit, community feel with family gatherings to celebrate religion and community forming a large part of society. 

Malta is predominately a roman catholic country which is reflected in its many cultural and religious festivals. Each town in Malta holds its own ‘Festa’ to celebrate religion and community during the summer months. Modest clothing should be worn when visiting churches and religious places as a sign of respect.

Malta has a Mediterranean climate, meaning that Summer is much hotter and Winter is milder than in the UK. Many Maltese people will take a Siesta during the day, so shops and businesses are typically closed between 1 pm and 4 pm when it’s the hottest. Malta’s climate is ideal for lovers of the outdoors, from sandy beaches like Mellieha Bay or exploring rocky coastlines near Żurrieq, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re drawn to the lively nightclubs of Paceville or prefer a relaxed evening at a local bar, Malta’s nightlife is thriving. You can expect music festivals, open-air concerts, and beach parties in the summer. The historic Teatru Manoel hosts a variety of performances, or take in Malta’s historic backdrop with the many outdoor cinemas.

Government in Malta

Malta is a democratic republic with a President and Prime Minister. There is no monarchy like the UK, so the President is also the Head of State. There are two primary political parties in Malta, the Labour Party (Partit Laburista) and the Nationalist Party (Partit Nazzjonalista). Elections are held every 5 years and whoever holds the most seats in the House of Representatives wins.

Only Maltese Citizens can vote in general elections. Non-EU residents cannot vote in general elections, referenda, or European Parliament elections. Non-Maltese EU Citizens who are residents in Malta can vote in both Local Council Elections and European Parliament Elections. This is something that UK citizens living in Malta lost their right to do after Brexit.

Driving in Malta

Driving in Malta is not too dissimilar than in the UK. They drive on the left-hand side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right of the vehicle. They have speed cameras to enforce limits and the police will occasionally carry out checks.

Driving tends to be described as aggressive, with frequent lane changes and high speeds being common, although speed limits tend to be lower than in the UK. This is something to get used to if you’re moving from the UK. 

If you’re living in Malta for less than 12 months, you can typically use your UK driving license. If you’re planning to become a long-term, permanent resident, you’ll need to exchange your UK driving license for a Maltese one. To do this you’ll need the following documents: 

• Completed application form from the Transport Malta website or office
• Your original UK driving license
• Passport or ID card
• Proof of residency via utility bill or contract 
• Recent photograph that is the size of a passport one
• Medical certificate

You then have to exchange your license at a Transport Malta Licensing and Testing Centre and pay the relevant fees. 

Getting Around Malta with Public Transport

Navigating Malta is both easy and affordable, thanks to its extensive public transport system.

Malta boasts a well-connected bus network that links major towns, cities, and tourist spots. Buses run frequently and cover the island efficiently. The network spans various routes, ensuring that most destinations are within reach. Buses operate from early morning until late evening, with some night services, especially during summer months.

While buses are the backbone of Malta’s public transport, they might not go everywhere at all hours. However, with proper planning, you can enjoy the scenic routes and charming panoramas that Malta has to offer, all from the comfort of its reliable bus system.

Retiring in Malta

Retiring to Malta from the UK is a popular choice due to the warmer weather and more relaxed way of living. If you want to move to Malta to retire, you can apply for the Malta Retirement Programme or normal residency. The Retirement Programme offers favourable tax rates for retirees and gives you residence status. You’ll have to meet the following criteria to apply: 

• Be a minimum of 55 years old 
• Show proof of a stable income/savings 
• Have valid health insurance cover 
• No criminal record in the UK for 10 years
• Purchase a property a minimum of €275,000 (£239,250) or rent somewhere for €9,600 (£8,352) annually 

You can choose to move to Malta via Ordinary residence where you won’t be subject to financial commitments. 

Claiming Your Pension as a UK National Retiring in Malta

There are several pension options if you’re retiring in Malta from the UK: 

UK State Pension – You can claim your UK State Pension while residing in Malta if you have paid enough national insurance tax. To do this, you’ll have to contact the International Pension Centre and they can guide you through the necessary steps and paperwork to start receiving your pension payments abroad.

Maltese and Other EU Pensions – As a retiree in Malta, you may also be eligible for the Maltese State Pension. This can be claimed from Malta’s Department of Social Security. 

For more insights on managing cross-border pensions, MoneyHelper’s Pensions and Retirement section can offer their help with claiming your pension in Malta.

Can I Ship My Car to Malta?

Yes, you can ship your car to Malta with our sister company Autoshippers. They offer weekly container shipping or RoRo (roll on roll off) services to Malta from the UK to get your vehicle delivered safely and fast. We ship your car from Bristol or Southampton and it arrives at the port of Valletta. 

We have over 25 years of experience in the industry, so you can trust us with your vehicle. Our experienced car shipping Move Managers have serious knowledge of exporting cars and vehicles to Malta to ensure that both UK and Valletta customs procedures are strictly followed. 

How Much Are Shipping Costs to Malta?

With 1st Move International, international shipping costs to Malta from the UK start at £865 for a shared container service. If you’re moving from a 3-bedroom house, it’ll cost roughly £3,015. A 4-5 bedroom move will increase the price to £5,829. 

These are just guidelines and the total cost of your removals to Malta will depend on the size of your move, the services you require and the destination in Malta. To get an accurate price for your move to Malta, fill out our quick and easy form and our expert team will provide you with a tailored quote. 

Pros and Cons of Moving to Malta From the UK

We’ve summarised the pros and cons of moving to Malta from the UK to help with your research:

Pros

• Lower cost of living – Malta has a lower cost of living than the UK
• Warmer climate – The Mediterranean climate offers much warmer summers and milder winters than the UK
• English speaking – English is an official language of Malta along with Maltese and is commonly spoken.
• Tax benefits – Through the Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP) and Malta Retirement Programme, you can enjoy lower taxes. 

Cons 

• Expensive to become a citizen – The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN) requires large donations and investments. 
• Fewer benefits after Brexit – After Brexit, many benefits to UK nationals were removed, making certain processes harder. 
• Lower salaries – Salaries are around 58% lower in Malta than in the UK
• Can get busy with tourists – The small island can get busy and crowded with tourists, especially during the summer. 

Removals to Malta from the UK

If you’re ready to make the move from the UK to Malta, get in touch with 1st Move International today. We have over 25 years of experience in the international removals industry. We provide weekly shipping to Malta for faster, safer and smarter shipping.

Simply fill out our quick and easy form with details of your move and our team of experts will be in touch. They’ll give you a tailored quote for your removals to Malta based on your specific requirements. To ensure a seamless transition to your new Mediterranean home, we offer a full suite of moving services:

• Expert Packing & Export Wrapping: Protect your belongings with our specialised packing services, ensuring they arrive safely and securely.
• Door-to-Door Service: Enjoy a hassle-free experience with our direct delivery from your current home in the UK to your new residence in Malta.
• Customs Assistance: Navigate the complexities of international paperwork with ease, thanks to our expert support in documentation and customs clearance.

Choose us for your move to Malta, and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing every detail is handled by seasoned professionals. Focus on starting your new adventure while we take care of the logistics.

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