Malta and Gozo have long become established as attractive destinations for expats, and people of different ages have chosen to relocate or retire on the islands. Today, the islands are also popular with digital nomads. While the key benefits are tied to a Mediterranean lifestyle, mild climate, and top-of-the-range healthcare system, Malta and Gozo are also very strong when it comes to offering financial incentives.
The Maltese islands boast a climate and relaxed lifestyle that echoes the holiday spirit all year round. However, if one has to be honest, Gozo, the smaller of the two islands, which is only reached via a 30-minute ferry trip, retains a more rural vibe that is a firm attractive point for many. English is considered Malta’s second language, and while the locals speak the Maltese language or Gozitan dialect, conversing in English is natural. Similarly, most formal communication is conducted in English, which makes settling in and living on the islands of Malta and Gozo a very smooth process. Malta has been an expat destination for decades, and joining the strong expat community living on the islands will help! Regarding transportation, Malta is well-connected and owning a car is very feasible. The islands are generally considered very safe destinations, with lower crime rates than other European countries. Gozo with its tight-knit community, enjoys a lower crime rate than Malta and serious crimes are rare.
Malta boasts a high-quality public healthcare system and is considered among the best in Europe. EU residents with a valid European Health Insurance Card and registered with Malta’s health system usually use the system for free, while non-EU nationals have subsidised costs. Private healthcare is also highly regarded because it offers quick access to medical specialists. Private health insurance is widely available.
Compared to other EU countries, Malta is also a more affordable place to live, making it more attractive for expats, retirees and even digital nomads. For example, renting a one-bedroomed apartment will turn out cheaper than in most European cities, although one has to mention that costs vary with localities, market conditions and property specifications. Similarly, there are good opportunities if one is interested in a property investment. Grocery shopping is reasonably priced, and dining out tends to be more affordable than in mainland Europe.
When it comes to culture, living on the islands sometimes feels like living in a history book. The history and architectural heritage of the islands are visible in everyday life. Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the islands also have a mix of Baroque, Medieval, and Arabic-influenced architecture, as seen in cities like Valletta, Mdina, and Victoria. The fortifications, churches, palaces, and coastal towers testify to the islands’ rich past. A colourful calendar of events keeps things exciting. While every village celebrates the feast dedicated to its patron saint with great fanfare, Malta and Gozo are known for cultural events like Notte Bianca, Carnival, and Christmas and Easter celebrations in Gozo. Malta also hosts international music, film and arts festivals such as the Isle of MTV in summer and the Malta International Arts Festival. This comes as no surprise as the Manoel Theatre in Valletta is one of the oldest in Europe, and Malta has a strong tradition of opera, drama and concerts. In particular, Gozo boasts a strong opera scene. In terms of contemporary culture and nightlife, Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Valletta are saught after for a vibrant nightlife scene. Malta has gained a reputation as a film production hub with movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones filmed here.
When it comes to residency options, Malta offers a series of schemes that can be summarised as follows:
- Ordinary Residence - for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.
- Permanent Residence Programme (PRP) – benefits and financial requirements.
- Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP) – ideal for non-EU nationals.
- Nomad Residence Permit – for remote workers.
- Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) – tax incentives for retirees.
- Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation & Investment (MEIN) – for high-net-worth individuals.
Each of the above schemes has its characteristics and features, and our team will help you better understand which option you need to apply. To apply for residency, one has to register with Identity Malta, the government agency responsible for handling residency, citizenship and immigration affairs in Malta. This registration involves collecting and presenting the respective documentation and payment of fees. The key documents in this step are a statement showing proof of income, adequate health coverage through health insurance and a secure place to live. The documents required vary according to the residency type being applied for. The timeframe for processing residency applications depends on the type of residency, the applicant’s nationality and the completeness of the application.
Naturally, settling in a place involves searching and selecting a property where to live. The starting point for this process is understanding locations, pricing trends and legal requirements. Roping in an experienced estate agent will help in the process. (link to other blog post 9) Malta is a mix of bustling urban areas like Sliema and St. Julians and quiet seaside and country villages. The choice of location depends on the lifestyle being sought. Whilst the historic capital Valletta is popular with those seeking a central location, Gozo offers a more serene and scenic environment ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors and seek a relaxed, peaceful life. Malta also provides Special Designated Areas (SDA) for foreign buyers. These luxury properties typically offer premium amenities like private pools, gyms, concierge services, and higher security (even in the form of a gated community). They are usually associated with a higher resale value and rental demand. The buying process consists of signing a preliminary agreement (convened), a legal contract defining terms of sale, due diligence and notary checks, which, once cleared, leads to the final contract, payment and transfer of property.
The renting process starts with a standard lease agreement and deposits, which can range from one to three months of rent (which can include or exclude utility bills).
A word about Gozo
Gozo is modernised in all aspects and has been supported by a second fibre optic cable to connect Malta and Gozo and significantly enhance Gozo’s digital infrastructure and connectivity since 2020. This means that entrepreneurs particularly keen on the technology and gaming sectors enjoy professional services and do not have to be concerned about aspects such as technology redundancy that is crucial for operations in the tech sector.
Yet, Gozo still enjoys a more rural vibe and has been designated a sustainable island. EcoGozo is a long-term strategy launched by the Maltese government to transform Gozo into an eco-island by focusing on sustainability, environmental conservation, and quality of life.
While Malta has undergone dramatic changes in the past 50 years, there is no hiding that the cost of living is rising due to the increasing demand. However, it remains one of the top options for raising a family or retiring.