Why expats are drawn to Malta: a complete overview

Malta, a small but lively archipelago in the Mediterranean, has become a top choice for expats.  This tiny island nation is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes and welcoming climate. However, beyond these attractions, Malta offers other benefits that make it an ideal location for expatriates.  Malta’s quality of life, bilingual community, easy relocation process, appealing tax incentives, citizenship benefits, good healthcare and a growing property market that is attractive for investment are just some of the features that make it a top choice for expats.

This article explores why Malta is increasingly seen as a desirable destination for expats.

A rich historical and cultural tapestry

Malta’s appeal is not just about financial and material benefits. The island’s rich history and culture provide a deep sense of connection and belonging for expats. Malta is home to some of the oldest standing structures in the world, such as the Ġgantija temples, which date back to 3600 BC. The island has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans and the British, all leaving a mark on its culture and architecture.

Valletta, the capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the 2018 European City of Culture. It offers museums, theatres and galleries. The city’s baroque architecture, narrow streets and imposing churches tell stories of its storied past. Living in Malta gives expats the chance to immerse themselves in this rich cultural tapestry, enjoying a lifestyle that blends modernity with tradition.

Climate and quality of life: Mediterranean bliss

Malta’s climate and overall quality of life are key factors that attract expats. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Malta offers a warm and pleasant Mediterranean climate, making it ideal for those looking to escape colder climates. Summers are hot and dry, perfect for beachgoers, while winters are mild, allowing for year-round outdoor activities.

The island’s lifestyle is laid-back yet vibrant, with a strong emphasis on family, community and outdoor living. The cost of living is moderate compared to other European countries, especially considering the high standard of living. Malta also has good healthcare and education systems, both of which are available to residents at a reasonable cost.

In addition, Malta’s strategic location makes it a gateway to the rest of Europe and North Africa, with good flight connections to major cities across the continent.

Ease of moving to Malta: a streamlined process

Malta’s straightforward immigration policies make it easy for expats to relocate. The island offers several residency programs tailored to different types of expatriates, including retirees, investors and employees of foreign companies.

The process of obtaining residency in Malta is relatively hassle-free, particularly for EU citizens who benefit from freedom of movement within the EU. Non-EU nationals can apply for various residence permits depending on their circumstances, such as the Global Residence Programme (GRP) for high-net-worth individuals, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) or work permits for those employed by a Maltese company.

Malta is officially bilingual, with Maltese and English as its official languages, ensuring easy communication for expats and visitors. English is widely spoken, and many locals are multilingual, often also speaking Italian, French or German, which further reduces language barriers and makes Malta a welcoming destination for people from diverse backgrounds.

The island also has a well-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education and transportation, which further makes the relocation process easier.

Tax incentives: a major draw for expats

One of the most compelling reasons expats choose Malta is its favourable tax regime. The Maltese government has implemented several tax incentives aimed at attracting foreign nationals and businesses to the island.

Malta’s economy, driven mostly by the services sector with well-established industries in gaming and finance, enjoys a solid international reputation. Malta’s favourable tax rates further boost its attractiveness, especially for corporate setups, with corporate profit tax rates as low as 5%. Individuals pay income tax rates ranging from 0% to 35% on income brought into Malta, with foreign income remaining tax-free if not remitted.

Moreover, Malta offers several specific programs to attract expatriates, including the Global Residence Program (GRP), the Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) and the Residence Programme (TRP). These programmes offer a flat tax rate of 15% on foreign income remitted to Malta, with a minimum tax threshold, provided certain conditions are met. This is complemented by Malta’s extensive network of double taxation treaties, which further reduces the tax burden on foreign nationals.

Maltese citizenship: gateway to the world

The Maltese passport is highly sought after as it offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, including the United States, Canada and the entire European Union. This makes it appealing for global citizens and business professionals who need ease of travel.

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment programme allows eligible individuals to apply for citizenship after a minimum of 12 months of residency, provided they make a significant investment in the country. This can include a donation to the National Development and Social Fund, an investment in government-approved financial instruments and the purchase or lease of real estate.

Real estate investment: a growing market

Malta’s real estate market is another factor drawing expats, particularly those looking for investment opportunities. The island has a thriving property market that continues to grow. Property prices are not falling, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in real estate.   Investment in Maltese property is seen as a wise choice, with the market showing strong potential for good returns. Areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s and Valletta are especially popular due to their proximity to business hubs, vibrant nightlife and rich cultural landmarks.   Special Designated Areas (SDAs) in Malta allow both EU and non-EU nationals to purchase properties with the same rights as Maltese citizens, further increasing the appeal of investing in Maltese real estate.

Conclusion: Malta as a premier expat destination

Malta’s combination of financial incentives, a growing property market, rich history, ease of relocation, citizenship benefits and excellent climate makes it an attractive destination for expats from around the world.

Christie’s Real Estate Malta’s Top Picks 

Christie’s Real Estate Malta has  curated a selection of their top property picks.  These homes are chosen for their prime locations, modern amenities, and ccess to Malta’s vibrant lifestyle, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious living experience for international buyers. Our expertise in the local market allows them to handpick properties that blend convenience, style, and investment potential, making them ideal choices for those relocating to the island.