Living in Malta in 2023: Compelling Reasons and Drawbacks to Consider

Living in Malta in 2023: Compelling Reasons and Drawbacks to Consider

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Introduction

Living in Malta can be an incredible experience for those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle, rich history, and beautiful scenery. 

With so much to offer, from stunning beaches and a vibrant culture to a thriving business scene and a strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is an increasingly popular choice for expats and digital nomads alike. 

However, as with any new place, it’s important to clearly understand the pros and cons of living in Malta before deciding to relocate. 

This blog aims to help anyone considering moving to Malta—whether for work, retirement, or simply a change of scenery—to have a better realistic idea and an understanding of what life is like on the island. 

What is the cost of living like in Malta?

The cost of living in Malta can vary depending on a number of factors, such as location, lifestyle, and personal preferences. 

However, overall, Malta is considered an affordable place to live compared to other European countries.

Housing is likely the biggest expense for most people living in Malta. Rental prices can vary depending on the location and size of the property. But, in general, they are considered to be reasonable. 

A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around €800-€1,000 per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center can cost around €600-€800 per month. 

Buying a property can be more expensive, with prices varying depending on the location and size of the property.

Food and groceries can also be affordable in Malta, with a typical weekly shop for a couple costing around €50-€70. 

Eating out in restaurants can vary in price, with a simple meal at a local restaurant costing around €10-€15 per person, while a three-course meal at a high-end restaurant can cost around €50-€70 per person.

In Malta, transportation costs are relatively affordable, with a monthly bus pass costing around €26 and a one-way bus ticket costing around €1.50.

What is the language spoken in Malta?

The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. 

Maltese is a Semitic language that evolved from Arabic, but it also has influences from Italian and Sicilian. 

On the other hand, English was introduced during Malta’s colonial history and has become the country’s second official language.

English is widely spoken and understood in Malta, especially in business, education, and tourism. Most locals speak English fluently, which is often used in official documents, government services, and international communication. 

Therefore, it is optional to know Maltese to get by in Malta, but knowing some basic Maltese phrases can be useful to communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.

On the other hand, knowing Maltese can help you integrate into the local community and culture. It can also make learning more about the country’s history and traditions easier. 

Some jobs in Malta may require knowledge of Maltese, especially those in the public sector or industries that require interaction with the local population.

What is the culture like in Malta?

The culture in Malta is a unique blend of Mediterranean and European influences. Malta has a rich history spanning over 7,000 years, reflected in its culture, traditions, and customs.

One of the most important aspects of Maltese culture is family. Maltese families are close-knit and often extended, with a strong emphasis on the role of the family in society. 

This is reflected in the many festivals and traditions that celebrate family life, such as the feast of Santa Marija, which is celebrated in August and involves large family gatherings, fireworks, and processions.

Religion is also an important part of Maltese culture, with most of the population being Catholic. 

The Catholic Church strongly influences Maltese society and is reflected in the many churches, chapels, and religious monuments that can be found across the island. 

Religious festivals like Easter and Christmas are also important events in Malta.

The arts are also an important part of Maltese culture, with a thriving music, theatre, and art scene. 

Maltese music, known as “ghana,” is a unique blend of Mediterranean, North African, and European influences and can be heard in the many festivals and cultural events throughout the year. 

The theatre scene in Malta is also lively, with many productions in both Maltese and English.

Finally, Maltese cuisine reflects the island’s history and culture. Traditional Maltese dishes often include fish, rabbit, and other local produce and are influenced by Mediterranean, North African, and European cuisine. 

Maltese cuisine is often accompanied by local wines and beer produced on the island.

What are the visa requirements for living in Malta?

The visa requirements for living in Malta depend on your nationality, the length of your stay, and the purpose of your visit. 

Malta is a member of the European Union, so citizens of EU and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Malta and can live and work in Malta without restrictions.

For non-EU/EEA citizens, several different types of visas are available, depending on the purpose of the visit. 

The most common types of visas for long-term stays in Malta are:

Residence permit

This is the most common type of long-term visa for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to live and work in Malta. To obtain a residence permit, you must have a job offer, be self-employed in Malta, or have enough funds to support yourself and your family during your stay.

Student visa

This visa is for non-EU/EEA students who want to study in Malta. To obtain a student visa, you must have been accepted to a recognized educational institution in Malta and have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.

Family reunification visa

This visa is for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to join their family members already living in Malta. To obtain this visa, you must be the spouse, parent, or child of a Maltese or EU citizen living in Malta.

The process of obtaining a visa can be quite lengthy and requires a lot of paperwork. 

You will need to provide proof of your identity, your purpose of visit, your financial situation, and your accommodation arrangements. 

The process of obtaining a visa can take several months, so starting the process as early as possible is recommended.

What kind of job opportunities are available in Malta?

Malta’s economy has grown in recent years, resulting in a growing demand for skilled labor. 

The job market in Malta is diverse, with opportunities in various industries, including tourism, financial services, iGaming, technology, and manufacturing.

Tourism is a significant industry in Malta, and there are many job opportunities in the hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, and cafes. 

The financial services industry is also strong in Malta, and there are many job opportunities in banking, insurance, and accounting.

iGaming is another rapidly growing industry in Malta, with many companies choosing to set up operations on the island. 

This has created a demand for professionals in software development, customer support, and marketing.

The technology sector is also growing in Malta, with many companies choosing to locate their operations on the island due to its favorable business environment and skilled workforce. 

There are many job opportunities in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis.

The manufacturing sector is also important in Malta, focusing on producing high-value-added products such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.

How does the healthcare system work in Malta?

The healthcare system in Malta is a combination of public and private sectors. 

The public healthcare system is funded by taxes and provides free or low-cost healthcare to Maltese citizens and residents. 

The Ministry of Health manages the public healthcare system in Malta, and there are several public hospitals and health centers located throughout the country. 

Most public system services are free of charge or for a nominal fee, including doctor visits, hospitalization, and emergency care.

Private healthcare is also available, and many expats and tourists opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times and access to a wider range of services.

The Malta Medical Council regulates the private healthcare system in Malta, and several private hospitals and clinics are located throughout the country. 

Private healthcare services in Malta are generally of a high standard, and many expats and tourists opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times and access to a wider range of services.

How easy is it to travel to other parts of Europe from Malta?

Traveling to other parts of Europe from Malta is relatively easy, as Malta has a well-connected international airport with many direct flights to major European cities. 

Popular destinations for weekend trips from Malta include Italy, Spain, Greece, and France, as well as smaller cities and towns throughout Europe.

For those on a tight budget, several budget-friendly travel options are available. 

Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet offer affordable flights to many European destinations, and good deals are often available for those who book in advance or travel during off-peak periods. 

Another budget-friendly option is to take a ferry or bus to nearby destinations such as Sicily or Tunisia, which are relatively close to Malta.

How safe is Malta for residents, particularly expats? 

Malta is generally a safe country for residents, including expats. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crime is rare. 

However, like in any country, there are some safety concerns that residents should be aware of.

One common safety concern in Malta is petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft. 

This is particularly common in tourist areas and on public transportation, so residents should be vigilant and take precautions such as keeping valuables secure and aware of their surroundings.

Another safety concern in Malta is the risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and storms. 

While Malta is not at high risk for these types of disasters, residents should still be prepared by having an emergency plan and stocking up on supplies such as food, water, and batteries.

What are the drawbacks of living in Malta?

While there are many advantages to living in Malta, there are also some potential drawbacks that residents should be aware of. 

Some of the drawbacks of living in Malta include the following:

Cost of Living

While the cost of living in Malta is generally lower than in many other European countries, it can still be relatively high, particularly regarding housing and utilities.

Traffic

Traffic can be a major issue in Malta, particularly in urban areas like Valletta and Sliema. Congestion and limited parking can make it difficult to get around, particularly during peak travel times.

Crowdedness

Malta is a small island with a high population density, and some residents may find it crowded and claustrophobic, particularly during the peak tourist season.

Limited job opportunities

While job opportunities are available in Malta, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, some residents may find that job opportunities are limited.

Climate

While Malta is known for its sunny weather, some residents may find the heat and humidity during the summer months uncomfortable, particularly if they are not used to the climate.

What are some tips for adjusting to life in Malta?

Adjusting to a new country can be challenging, particularly if you come from a different culture or language background. 

However, many resources and support networks are available to help expats adjust to life in Malta.

While English is widely spoken in Malta, it can still be helpful to learn some basic Maltese phrases to help you communicate with locals. Many language schools in Malta offer courses in Maltese, English, and other languages.

Malta’s unique culture may differ from what you are used to, particularly if you come from a different part of the world. Learn about Maltese culture, customs, and traditions to help you adjust more easily.

There are also many expat communities in Malta, and joining one of these communities can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. There are also many online forums and groups to connect with other expats and get advice and support.

The Malta government also offers a range of services to help expats settle in, including information on residency permits, tax and social security, and healthcare.

If you are struggling to adjust to life in Malta, there are many professional services available to help you. 

This includes counseling and therapy services and relocation services that can help you with everything from finding a home to setting up utilities and getting a bank account.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living in Malta can be an amazing experience for those looking for a beautiful, sunny, and welcoming place to call home. 

With its rich history, unique culture, and stunning natural scenery, Malta has something to offer everyone. From bustling cities to the quiet countryside, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and discover this fascinating island nation.

Of course, as with any new experience, there may be some challenges to overcome when moving to Malta. However, with the right preparation, support, and mindset, these challenges can be easily overcome. 

So if you are considering moving to Malta, we encourage you to take the leap and discover all this beautiful island nation has to offer. From its warm climate and stunning scenery to its rich history and unique culture, there is no other place like Malta.

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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters, with over 666.9 million answer views on Quora.com, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.