With its high quality of life and low cost of living, Malta has become a top choice for many internationals looking to relocate, find work, or retire abroad. The relaxed and easygoing lifestyle that Malta offers is perfect for anyone in need of some vitamin D. Every year, thousands of individuals from all over the globe make the decision to become the magnificent archipelago of Malta their permanent home.
If you are considering relocating to Malta, whether for employment, business, or retirement, here is a handy checklist of some of the most crucial things to know before you go.
You can use English as your primary language
English is the language of everyday written communication, including signs, government paperwork, advertisements, and more. If yours is healthy, you won’t need to worry unless you want to make Malta your permanent home. Learning Maltese, a language that combines elements of Siculo-Arabic (an Arabic dialect with Sicilian origins) with English, French, and Italian, would be much appreciated by the locals.
What documents should you bring
Documentation is highly sought for in Malta. Even if you don’t believe something is necessary or relevant, it’s wise to pack it nevertheless. Bring the original or a certified copy of your rental or lease agreement, medical documents, financial records, credit card statements, utility payments in your name, references from previous employers, and your birth, marriage, or divorce certificates. In this situation, it is preferable to have an abundance of documentation rather than a lack thereof.
It has amazing neighborhoods
Apartment-hunting shouldn’t be too challenging since growth in Malta has spawned a large number of brand-new housing developments. Although rent in Malta is generally lower than in other European countries, areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s, Gira, and Msida are popular with foreigners and hence command higher rates. You may save money on rentals by looking a bit farther away or by visiting during the off-seasons of winter and autumn instead of the busy summer months.
Malta’s corporate landscape
It will be simpler if you locate a job and apply for it before you go, but if that isn’t possible, you may ask others in social media groups for advice. Once you’ve been offered and accepted a position, the registration procedure is lengthy but quite simple. Employment is provided mostly by the tourism and casino industries, but you should also look at the construction sector and its ancillary businesses. If you need to prove your credibility for anything, from renting an apartment to opening a bank account, a signed employment contract will do the trick.
You must submit your application for residency and/or work authorization in accordance with the guidelines established by ID Malta and JobsPlus, two officially recognized state agencies.
Healthcare and safety
Those who are working in Malta and have been awarded a social insurance number and residency card are eligible to enroll in the country’s universally accessible, publicly funded healthcare system, which was based after the NHS in the United Kingdom. Private healthcare is not only more convenient than waiting in line at the clinic, but it is also relatively cheap. Australians, thanks to a reciprocal agreement with Malta, will have access to some medical treatments that are not available to non-EU nationals who do not purchase our private medical insurance.
Avoid the famous tourist locations late at night, and keep close eye on your stuff like you would in any other large European destination. However, the country of islands has a low percentage of violent crime and a welcoming culture.
The island way of life gives the impression that the people observe an entirely different time zone and are unconstrained by the concept of a “schedule.” In order to make a smooth transition to life in Malta, expats are encouraged to let go of their attachment to the familiar, embrace uncertainty, and learn to do things the Maltese way.
There is a sizable American expat population in Malta. If you decide to make Malta your new home, you’ll find a plethora of expat organizations ready to assist you get settled.
Contact a UK immigration lawyer if you need assistance in moving to Malta from the UK. They have been providing excellent real estate services to customers for over 50 years. Get in touch with them now if you’re interested.
The bureaucracy on the island may be challenging and time-consuming for visitors. While incorporating a business or establishing a bank account in other European nations could take a few days, doing so in Malta might take several weeks. It will require more time and effort than you’re accustomed to in order to do business in this region.
