MALTA
a new life in
ready to start A New Chapter Under the Mediterranean Sun
Starting a new life in another country is exciting, emotional and sometimes overwhelming. You may be picturing Mediterranean sunshine, crystal-clear seas, historic harbour towns and a relaxed island lifestyle, where life is lived outdoors and the pace feels refreshingly human. Malta often appeals to those looking for warmth, community and simplicity, while still enjoying the familiarity of an English-speaking environment and strong European infrastructure.
At the same time, it’s completely natural to feel uncertain about the practical side of such a big move. Questions around visas and residency, healthcare access, taxes, property and how day-to-day life really works on a small island can feel daunting at the start. Knowing what to expect, and where to find reliable information, makes all the difference.
This page is designed to give you a clear, reassuring overview of what moving to Malta involves and the key things you need to think about before taking the next step. It’s here to guide you, not overload you, introducing the main topics and gently pointing you towards our comprehensive guide, where everything is explained in full detail and in plain English.
If Malta is calling to you, and you’re ready to explore what life there could realistically look like, you’re in exactly the right place.
MOVING OVERSEAS
Our Complete Guide to Moving Overseas is designed to support you at every stage of your journey, from those first early questions through to feeling truly settled in your new life. It takes you step by step through the practicalities of moving while also helping you understand what life in Malta is really like once the paperwork is done!
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WHY CHOOSE
MALTA?
Malta offers a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, English-speaking ease and European living. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, a rich history and a welcoming international community, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to build a life here.
English is an official language, which removes one of the biggest barriers many people face when moving abroad. Combined with a familiar legal system, excellent digital infrastructure and a strong expat network, Malta can feel accessible and reassuring, even for first-time movers.
Despite its small size, Malta offers varied lifestyles from lively coastal towns to quieter villages, all within a short distance of the sea.
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Currency transfers are an important step in the house buying journey. It is key to get all the information you need beforehand, so you aren’t missing out when it comes to the transfer. We can put you in touch with our currency partner to save you time and money in the long run…
THE MOVING TO MALTA GUIDE 2026
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Visas & Residency – The Basics
Understanding visas and residency is a key part of planning a move to Malta, but the country offers several clear routes depending on your circumstances.
EU citizens benefit from freedom of movement, while non-EU nationals will usually need a visa or residence permit to live in Malta long term. Options vary depending on whether you plan to work, retire, study, run a business or live in Malta with independent income.
Many residence routes require applications before arrival or shortly after, so early preparation is essential.
Healthcare in malta
Healthcare is an important consideration when relocating, and Malta offers a strong and reliable system.
Malta has a well-regarded public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost treatment to residents, alongside a growing private healthcare sector. Many residents choose a combination of public and private care, benefiting from shorter waiting times and wider choice.
Private health insurance is affordable by international standards, and English-speaking medical professionals are widely available.
Where Will You Live?
Choosing where to live in Malta is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make and one of the most exciting.
Despite being a small country, Malta offers a surprising variety of living environments. Coastal towns such as Sliema and St Julian’s are lively and international, while areas like Gozo or inland villages offer a quieter, more traditional pace of life.
Factors such as proximity to amenities, transport, healthcare and lifestyle preferences all play a role. There’s no single “best” place to live in Malta, only what fits your plans and priorities.
Property & Housing
Malta offers a wide range of property options, from modern apartments and townhouses to traditional stone homes.
Foreign nationals are allowed to buy property in Malta, though certain rules apply depending on nationality and location. Renting is common, particularly for newcomers who want time to explore different areas before committing to a purchase.
Property prices vary significantly by location, with coastal and central areas typically commanding higher prices.
Families, Schooling & Everyday
Malta is a family-friendly country with a strong sense of community and a safe environment for children.
The education system includes public, private and international schools, many of which teach in English. This makes Malta particularly appealing to families who want continuity in education while enjoying life abroad.
Everyday life in Malta is relaxed but practical, with modern services, good connectivity and a strong café culture. While island life brings its own quirks, many people find the balance easy to settle into.
Retiring to malta
Malta is an increasingly popular choice for retirees looking for sunshine, safety and an English-speaking environment.
A warm climate, accessible healthcare and a slower pace of life make Malta attractive for those wanting to enjoy retirement while staying connected to Europe. Pension income can usually be received from abroad, and various residency options exist for retirees.
Many retirees appreciate Malta’s compact size, making travel, healthcare and social life easy to manage.
Taxes, Insurance & Practicalities
Moving to Malta also means adapting to a new administrative and tax system.
Your tax position will depend on residency status and income sources. Malta has double taxation agreements with many countries and operates a remittance-based tax system for some residents. Certain types of insurance, such as health and property insurance, may be required depending on your situation.
Understanding the basics early on can help you settle in smoothly and avoid unnecessary surprises.
Ready to Go Deeper?
This page gives you a clear overview of what moving to Malta involves — but true confidence comes from understanding the details.
Our Complete Guide to Moving to Malta (2026) walks you through every stage of the journey, from early planning and paperwork to settling in and building a life you truly enjoy.
A New Life in Malta is part of A New Life Overseas, helping you explore your options and move forward with confidence, wherever in the world your next chapter takes you.
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