Do you dream of leaving the cool Northern climate to find your own little paradise under the blazing Mediterranean sun? Have you perhaps already considered a destination like Malta? Then you’re exactly where you need to be.
Malta is a small archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea south of Italy, home to just over half a million inhabitants. The country is renowned for its historical monuments dating back thousands of years, not to mention the crystal-clear sea water and a climate that is among the best in Europe.
The island nation also offers local and delicious food like pastizzi (pastry filled with, for example, ricotta) and fenkata (rabbit stewed in wine), along with a lively atmosphere.
In your free time, you can explore medieval towns, swim in the azure sea, or simply enjoy the sunset from one of the many coastlines. Malta offers a unique blend of relaxed island life and modern lifestyle, making it an ideal place to live and work.
We have gathered all the information you need to live and work in Malta—from practical tips on finding housing and employment to insider guides on the island’s hidden treasures.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
Facts about Malta
- Capital: Valletta.
- Currency: Euro (€).
- Languages: Maltese, Engelish, and many speak Italian.
- Population: Approximately 500,000.
- Climate: Warm Mediterranean climate.
- Famous for: Historical sites and beaches.
Fun facts about Malta:
- It is the smallest country in the EU and has left-hand traffic.
- Malta’s capital, Valletta, has over 320 monuments, making it one of the most densely concentrated historical areas in the world.
- Nearly 3 million tourists visit Malta each year.
- The island nation has served as a backdrop for several major films and series, including “Game of Thrones“, “Gladiator,” and “Troy.”
- Malta is one of the best places in the Mediterranean for diving, with numerous shipwrecks and caves to explore underwater.
- The Maltese host a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year.
Work in Malta
Many companies in Malta are seeking international employees, and Malta offers attractive job opportunities across various sectors.
The island nation’s economy is strong, especially in tourism, iGaming, finance, and technology.
The country’s EU membership, the use of English, and not least the low taxes and warm temperatures make it an attractive place for international workers.
Advantages of Living and Working in Malta
Mediterranean Lifestyle: Malta offers more than 300 sunny days a year and a perpetual feeling of summer and vacation. The turquoise sea and warm temperatures invite relaxation and adventure after working hours.
Low Cost of Living: Compared to other European countries, the cost of living in Malta is low. Combined with a favorable tax rate, this makes Malta an economically attractive place to live.
High Quality of Life: Malta is known for its high quality of life, featuring a relaxed lifestyle, friendly locals, and a safe environment.
English as an Official Language: Malta was previously part of the United Kingdom, and therefore English is one of the official languages, making it easier to adapt and settle into the local community and job market.
Rich Culture and Community: Malta has a rich history and a dynamic cultural scene with festivals, music, and art. The Maltese islands are also known for their fantastic gastronomy and cozy village festivals.
How to get a job in Malta?
If you’re interested in working in Malta, a good first step is to get in touch with a recruitment agency like Next Job Abroad.
We have many years of experience helping people like you find jobs that match your skills and desires, and we also have contacts with Maltese companies.
A strong CV is the key to success, so make sure it’s updated and highlights your best qualities. We’re happy to help you prepare your CV if you’re having trouble with it.
Additionally, it’s also a good idea to keep your LinkedIn profile updated, as many employers use it to find candidates – including Malta-based companies.
To expand your opportunities, you can also look at various job portals, which often have many job listings.
When you get the opportunity for a job interview, it’s important to be well prepared.
Read up on the company and think about how you can contribute to the team. Show them that you’ve done your homework and that you really want to work with them.
Is it easy to get a job in Malta?
Even though it may seem a bit overwhelming at first, it is actually relatively easy to find work in Malta – especially coming from another country.
Since Malta is part of the EU, it is quite straightforward for EU citizens to obtain a work permit in the country.
Furthermore, Malta is one of the European countries with the absolutely lowest unemployment rate; there are many international companies that have branches in the country, and many companies on the island usually have job vacancies.
Several of these companies are even looking for people who speak specific foreign languages, such as Danish, Swedish or Norwegian to service international customers.
So it can be a significant advantage just to be able to speak a Scandinavian language or even German & Dutch when you’re applying for jobs in Malta, and it’s even possible to land jobs without much other experience than that.
That being said, experience, skills, and the ability to adapt naturally play a significant role with many employers, and it’s important to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers.
Being proactive, patient, and open to different opportunities can increase your chances of finding a job in Malta.
Can foreigners get a job in Malta?
Yes, foreigners can definitely get a job in Malta.
Just as the country has many tourists, Malta is actually also known for being very welcoming to foreign workers. Especially applicants from other EU countries, which makes the process easier because there is no requirement for visas and work permits.
For people from outside the EU, it may require a bit more paperwork, but it is certainly still possible.
Working conditions in Malta
Working conditions in Malta are generally good, and Maltese companies adhere to EU standards for working hours, holidays, and workplace safety.
A typical workweek is around 40 hours, and employees are entitled to at least 25 days of paid vacation per year. Malta also values public holidays, which provide additional days off throughout the year—or double pay on working days.
The work environment is often relaxed yet productive, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
How much do you earn in Malta?
If you are considering working in Malta, you should expect that salaries are generally lower than Northern European salaries.
That said, the cost of living and taxes are also significantly lower, so you will typically be able to live well on an “ordinary” salary.
The minimum wage for a Maltese person is around €736 per month, but the average income is somewhat higher and varies widely based on job type and industry.
While the annual gross income for many is around €18,000, specialized professionals, individuals with specific language skills, and those with experience in certain sectors like IT, iGaming, and financial services can expect significantly higher salaries.
It is not uncommon for people in these fields to earn from €24,000 to over €30,000 annually. For example, if you start as a Customer Service Agent in Malta, your starting salary will be around €24,000–€25,000 per year before bonuses.
Employees in Malta enjoy statutory bonuses and annual allowances to cover living expenses. These are set by the Maltese government and adjusted annually to match inflation.
This structure of salaries and allowances, combined with the lower daily expenses, makes Malta an attractive option for those seeking work abroad.
Popular jobs in Malta
Despite the country’s small size, Malta offers a variety of jobs across a wide range of industries.
Some of the most popular jobs in Malta are typically within:
Customer Service: Many international companies have offices here and are looking for employees to assist customers over the phone or via email – mostly language specific roles. Customer service is the most popular sector, and most of the available jobs we offer in Malta fall into this category.
Hospitality and Tourism: Thanks to the island’s fantastic location, rich history, and numerous museums and restaurants, there are many jobs within hotel management, restaurants, and at tourist attractions. These jobs typically pay €1000–€1400 per month and are not recommended.
iGaming: Malta is known for attracting some of the largest companies in online gaming, which create jobs in IT, web development, and game design. Many of the people we help start in customer service and work their way up in this industry.
Financial Sector: There are also job opportunities within banking and new technologies like online payment systems. Here, we can often help Danes or Germans find jobs – especially if you have experience in sales.
Professional Jobs: With many expatriates in the country and a solid public sector, you can often find jobs in Malta within fields such as English teaching, law, and healthcare.
As you can see, there are generally many job opportunities in Malta, so there is likely something that fits your skills and interests.
Applying for jobs in Malta
Before you apply for a job in Malta, you should start by updating your English CV to reflect your skills, experiences, and education.
It is important to highlight the elements that are most relevant to the job you are applying for, and ensure your CV is clear and easy to read. We recommend that you use our free CV tool here.
Good preparation for the job interview is essential. Familiarize yourself with the company, what it does, and how the role you’re applying for fits in. This shows that you are motivated and serious about the job.
Remember that first impressions count. In Malta, a professional appearance is valued, so choose appropriate attire for the job interview. However, in everyday office life, the dress code is more relaxed.
During the job interview, it is important to showcase both your professionalism and your personality. Be honest and enthusiastic, but keep the conversation professional and focus on how you can help the employer.
This demonstrates that you are both serious and a pleasant person to work with. Overall, it’s about showing that you are the right candidate for the job both professionally and personally.
Taxes in Malta
Income tax in Malta is generally low, so if you come from a country with high taxation, Malta’s tax system will seem advantageous.
In Malta, people pay taxes depending on how much they earn and whether they are single, in a relationship, or have children. The tax rate increases with your income, ranging from 0% up to 35%.
Here is an overview:
- If you earn up to €9,100 per year, you pay 0% in tax.
- Incomes between €9,101 and €14,500 are taxed at 15%, minus a deduction.
- For incomes between €14,501 and €60,000, the tax rate is 25%, also with a deduction.
- If you earn over €60,001, you pay 35% in tax, but with an even larger deduction.
Your tax deduction in 2024 ranges between €1,365–€9,050 per year, depending on your salary and whether you are married or have children. Most people will receive an annual deduction of €2,725.
Additionally, there is a social security contribution of 10% of your salary. This system ensures that you pay tax based on how much you earn and helps cover costs for free healthcare and other social services.
In general, taxes are significantly lower than in Northern Europe, which means you will have a larger portion of your salary available each month.
If you want to learn more about taxes in Malta and compare them with other countries, you can go to our guide on salaries and taxes abroad.
Live in Malta
When you consider moving to Malta, there are a number of things you need to sort out to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Below you’ll find the most important information to prepare for your new adventure in Malta.
Advantages of Living in Malta
- Mediterranean Climate: Enjoy over 300 days of sunshine each year on a Mediterranean island that invites an outdoor lifestyle with fantastic views everywhere.
- Low Cost of Living: Compared to many other European countries, living in Malta is inexpensive.
- Easy Communication: English is an official language, making it easy for foreigners to settle in and communicate with the local population.
- Rich Culture: Malta is filled with historical sites, colorful festivals, and traditional village feasts that offer a deep cultural experience.
- Beautiful Beaches: Whether you prefer rocky shores or sandy beaches, Malta offers fantastic options.
- Relaxed and Festive Atmosphere: Malta has a lot of tourists, which means there is a holiday atmosphere of relaxation and festivity most of the year.
- International Community: There are many expats in Malta, so you certainly won’t be the only foreigner.
- Great Food: Maltese cuisine offers several exciting dishes and restaurants, but you’ll also find delicious, modern food as you know it from other places in Europe.
Networking
Building connections in Malta can open doors to both social and professional opportunities.
Many expats use platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to participate in groups or events related to their interests and field of work.
Additionally, there are networking events and meetups specifically designed for newcomers, making it easy to meet new people.
If you’re interested in sports, we also recommend stopping by the Scandinavian sports bar The Ivy in Paceville. They show football matches, tennis matches, handball games, and other Danish sports events.
Culture
Malta is a rich blend of several different cultures with deep historical roots, which is reflected in the country’s architecture, art, and daily life on the islands.
The country has a rich cultural heritage from various civilizations, which has created a unique cultural identity celebrated through festivals, music, and traditional events throughout the year.
Food
The Maltese cuisine is as varied as its culture, with a strong Mediterranean influence.
Local specialties like pastizzi, rabbit stew, and ftira are must-tries. Cooked rabbit is the national dish of Malta.
Fresh fish and seafood are also a significant part of the diet here. There are plenty of good and relatively affordable restaurants by the water, offering a wide selection of freshly caught fish.
But Malta is a well-developed country, so you can easily find other delicious options if you’re not into seafood.
Nightlife
If you’re the type who quickly seeks a good party when you’re not working, you won’t be bored in Malta.
The nightlife in Malta is lively and varied, with something for everyone. The Paceville area in St. Julian’s is known for its many bars, nightclubs, and casinos, attracting both locals and tourists.
Many say that Paceville is one of the best party streets in Europe due to the long row of bars and clubs—with quite cheap drinks.
For a more relaxed evening, there are a number of wine bars and pubs spread across the island, and in the summer, beach parties and outdoor clubs appear.
We also recommend that you visit the various beach clubs in Malta. Here, it’s all about drinks in the sun—often with pools available for guests.
Living costs
Things cost surprisingly little in Malta, and you can easily live well without spending a fortune.
When dining out, you can, for example, find lunches for around 10 euros—but many places serve a kebab roll for €5–€6. Dinners for two people often cost between 30 and 50 euros.
The difference in restaurant prices is generally greater than that of groceries compared to Northern Europe. Therefore, it is particularly attractive to eat out, because in many places it is quite affordable.
Grocery shopping
Local markets offer fresh produce, fish, and souvenirs at good prices, typically between €2–€3 for a kilo of fruit or vegetables. We recommend shopping at the various carts with local fruits and vegetables that you find around the streets every day.
For groceries and household items, there are also many regular supermarkets and modern shopping centers where prices and selection are comparable to other EU countries, though often slightly lower.
Accommodation
Rental prices in Malta depend heavily on location. Outside the city center, you can find one-bedroom apartments for rent from €600 to €800 per month.
In more sought-after areas like Sliema or Valletta, or along the coast, prices increase, and you can expect to pay between €800 and €1200 for similar accommodations.
We recommend thoroughly researching different areas and perhaps considering less well-known locations to find the best deals and experience a more authentic Maltese lifestyle. This can be especially attractive because bus rides are free for residents in Malta (more on that below).
Most people choose to move in with coworkers from the training team at work. That way, you can save on rent and expenses while getting to know your colleagues as roommates.
Arrival in Malta
If you come from an EU country, there’s good news: you don’t need a visa or work permit to work or live in Malta.
However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you must register your move to Malta or apply for a residence permit.
To do this, you should have the following documents and requirements in order:
- Obtain a rental contract as proof of your address.
- If you have a job, make sure to have your employment contract ready.
- Apply for a personal identification number online, which is important for taxes and public services.
- Once you have your personal identification number, you will automatically receive a tax ID.
How to open a local bank account
When you’re about to receive your salary from your job in Malta and pay taxes in the country, you will, of course, need a bank account.
For many, opening a bank account can be a bit of a non-trivial process, but it can definitely be done with a bit of patience and good preparation.
Here are some good suggestions:
- Choose a bank and find out which documents they require. This usually includes the following documents: passport and proof of your address in Malta.
- Some banks also require a minimum deposit or a bank reference.
- The process varies from bank to bank and can take from a couple of weeks to a couple of months. The most popular banks for foreigners include larger banks such as HSBC, Revolut, and Bank of Valletta (BOV).
We recommend that you first open a bank account with Revolut, because it’s easy and quick to do through their app. If you later want to open an account with HSBC or Bank of Valletta, you can certainly do so.
Transport in Malta
Malta offers a relatively efficient public transportation system that primarily consists of buses. A single bus ticket usually costs between €1.5 and €2.
If you plan to use the bus often, a Tallinja Card is a good investment. It’s a rechargeable card where prices start from as little as €0.75 per trip and can reach a maximum of €26 per month.
As of 2022, you can even travel free by bus across the entire island. You can do this as a registered resident of Malta. After registering your address, you can apply for a Tallinja Card and then travel by bus for free.
Besides buses, car rental is a popular option for tourists or newcomers. Daily rental prices start around €14, depending on the car’s size and the season. But you should remember that in Malta, they drive on the left side of the road, so it’s important to be attentive and careful if you choose to drive yourself.
A strong recommendation is to download the Uber and Bolt apps on your phone if you want to get around the island. Taxi prices are very cheap compared to back home, typically starting from €8—and there’s always a taxi nearby.
Bicycle rental is also an option, but be aware that Malta doesn’t have many bike lanes.
Climate in Malta
Malta not only offers beautiful scenery but also enjoys a delightful Mediterranean climate with warm summers, manageable mild winters, and over 300 days of sunshine each year.
Summer generally brings temperatures above 25°C, and winter ranges between 15°C to 20°C with a bit more rain than in summer. Spring and autumn are pleasant with temperatures often exceeding 20°C.
The sea temperature is over 20°C for most of the year, and even in winter, you don’t notice much difference in the water temperature, making it possible to swim almost all year round.
Don't miss this when you're in Malta
Malta offers exceptional experiences, whether you’re into exciting history or idyllic beaches.
If you’re considering moving to Malta, or just visiting the country for a limited period, here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
The capital Valletta
Despite being known as one of Europe’s smallest capitals, Valletta is a place rich in history and culture.
As one of Europe’s most historic cities, it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you enjoy museums, churches, and palaces, you’ll never be bored in this city.
Mdina
The medieval city of Mdina, known as “The Silent City,” is perfect if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
The city boasts beautiful, old buildings and stunning views. It feels like stepping into another era.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is world-famous for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings, offering an absolutely stunning view, making it a must-visit when you’re in Malta.
You’ll find the Blue Lagoon on the small island of Comino.
Gozo
If you’re looking for a more classic island life away from the large hotels in the country’s three biggest cities, you can take the ferry to the Mediterranean island of Gozo, which boasts a stunning location.
This smaller island is a bit smaller than Malta’s main island and has a smaller population and fewer tourists, offering you a more authentic experience of Malta. You’re also more likely to find a quieter, more private beach here.
The Three Cities
“The Three Cities” – Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea – offer a true medieval atmosphere with beautiful churches and are filled with history.
The Three Cities are the perfect area to explore Malta’s past.
St. Paul's Bay
St. Paul’s Bay is the country’s most populated area and is definitely an ideal visit for those looking for cultural experiences along the coast. The area around St. Paul’s Bay is known for its beautiful coastline, recreational activities, and historical sites.
St. Paul’s Bay is also perfect for water lovers, as you’ll find beautiful beaches, a water park, diving opportunities, and even the country’s largest aquarium in this area.
Healthcare in Malta
Malta has an overall excellent and efficient healthcare system, consisting of both public and private contributions.
The system is funded through taxes and social security contributions, which both employers and employees contribute to. This ensures access to free treatment within the public system for all registered residents and EU citizens with the European Health Insurance Card.
For healthcare services not covered by the public system, many opt for private insurance. Most workplaces even offer private health insurance as part of your employment contract.
Additionally, healthcare services are widely available across the island, with a network of health centers and facilities.
Next Job Abroad helps people finding job and accomodation abroad
Next Job Abroad is your gateway to living and working in Malta when you’re ready.
Each year, we help many people successfully move abroad with a job in hand and everything they need for a great experience.
All you have to do to be considered for a position is go to our jobs abroad, choose the job that appeals to you the most, and apply. Voila!
