Malta Authority Guide 2025: All Essential Offices and Services for International Residents

Malta Authorities at a Glance: Your Guide Through the Administrative Jungle

When I first stood in front of the Identity Malta office in Msida three years ago, I thought: How hard can it be? Spoiler alert: pretty hard. But don’t worry—with a solid understanding of Malta’s bureaucracy, you’ll save yourself months of frustration and finally get who is responsible for what.

Why Malta’s Bureaucracy Is Different From Back Home

Malta is a curious bureaucratic hybrid. On one hand, it’s an EU member with digital services; on the other, it’s an island where the clerk may close the counter at 11:30 a.m. because “it’s too hot to work today.” The good news: almost everything runs in English, and most processes are standardized. The not-so-good news: you’ll still need patience and the right order.

Malta’s administrative system is based on the British model but has merged over the years with EU requirements and local quirks. What does this mean for you? Clear areas of responsibility, but sometimes the lines blur in confusing ways.

The Three Types of Authorities You Need to Know

Malta’s administration is divided into three tiers, each offering different services:

• National authorities: Identity Malta, Transport Malta, Tax Office – everything runs centrally here
• Regional services: Jobsplus, Health Department – satellite offices but central administration
• Local councils: 68 municipalities handling local services like waste collection and registration

The trick: You almost always start with the national authorities and work your way down. Never the other way around.

Opening Hours & Appointments: What You Should Know in Advance

Here’s where it gets interesting. Official hours are usually 8:00am–4:30pm, Monday to Friday. In reality? Many counters close from 12:00–1:00pm for lunch, some services are only open in the mornings, and in summer (June to September), hours can suddenly be shortened.

My tip: Always book your appointments online if possible. Walk-ins work, but you might end up waiting two hours. And always bring more paperwork than the website says—Murphys Law is especially true here.

Identity Malta: Your First Stop for Residency Matters

Identity Malta is your most important authority as an international resident. Everything related to residency, citizenship, and ID documents runs through here. Think of Identity Malta as a one-stop shop for your legal existence on the island.

Residence Permits: From Tourist Card to Permanent Residence

As an EU citizen, you’re theoretically not required to apply for a residence permit in Malta. In practice, you should, especially if you’re staying longer than three months. Why? Without the document, opening a bank account, signing a lease, or registering for tax quickly becomes a nightmare.

The EU National ID Card will cost you €27.50 and takes about two weeks. You’ll need:

• Completed application form (available online)
• Valid passport or national ID
• Biometric passport photo
• Proof of Maltese address (lease agreement or utility bill)
• Health insurance proof

For non-EU citizens, things get more complicated. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay, there are different permit categories—from a Single Permit for workers to a Residence Permit for investors. Processing times vary between 4–12 weeks, and fees start from €280.

Citizenship Services: The Pathway to a Maltese Passport

Malta offers several routes to citizenship, but all take time. The classic route via naturalization after five years of residency costs €750 and takes about 18 months to process. You’ll need to show basic knowledge of Maltese or English and a clean criminal record.

Then there’s the infamous Malta Individual Investor Programme (MIIP)—but that will set you back at least €750,000 plus a property investment. That’s more for Dr. Mara than for the average digital nomad.

Booking Appointments & Required Documents

Identity Malta has an online booking system that works—most of the time. Appointments are often booked up 2–3 weeks in advance, especially in the summer when all temporary residents need to renew their permits at once.

My survival tip: Book your next appointment during your first visit. And always pack these standard documents, no matter why you’re coming:

1. Originals plus copies of all relevant documents
2. Two biometric passport photos (even if not explicitly requested)
3. Proof of your Maltese address (no older than 3 months)
4. Bank statement from the last three months
5. Health insurance proof

Pro tip: The clerks are generally helpful but stressed. A friendly “Good morning” and a bit of patience will open more doors than a heated argument ever will.

Transport Malta: Driver’s License, Registration & More

Transport Malta is responsible for everything that moves—from your car to your yacht, if you own one. For most of us, it’s especially relevant for driving license conversion and vehicle registration.

EU License Conversion: When It’s Mandatory

This gets confusing: As an EU citizen, you can drive in Malta with your home country’s license—technically with no time limit. In practice, car rentals, insurance companies, and employers often want to see a Maltese license as proof of your residency status.

Conversion is optional but makes sense if you’re staying for good. The process is simple:

• Fill in application (Form TM/VL/139)
• Present valid EU license
• Eye test at an authorized optician (€15–25)
• Pay the fee (€24.65)
• Provide biometric photo

Processing time is usually 2–3 weeks. You’ll then receive a Maltese driver’s license in EU format—almost identical to your German or Austrian one, just with the Malta flag.

Vehicle Registration in Malta: Costs and Process

If you import your car from Germany or another EU country, it gets expensive. Malta levies a registration tax based on your vehicle’s CO2 emissions and market value. For a mid-range car, that’s easily another €1,500–€3,000.

The process:

1. Vehicle Test: Technical inspection at Transport Malta (€35)
2. Insurance: Take out Maltese car insurance
3. Registration Tax: Calculate and pay fee
4. Licence Plates: Maltese plates (€25)
5. Roadworthiness Test: Annual inspection (€30)

Alternative: Buy a used car locally. The used car market in Malta is small but fair, and you’ll avoid the hassle of import duties.

Public Transport: Tallinja Card & Bus Connections

Malta’s bus system is… an experience. The Tallinja Card is your ticket for all public transport and costs €15 (including €10 credit). You can top it up online or at kiosks.

The reality: Buses can be early, late, or off-schedule, and the official timetable is more of a loose guideline. But for €2 a ride (€1.50 with Tallinja Card) you can get anywhere—if you’ve got the time.

Bottom line: If you live in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s, the bus is perfectly sufficient. For Gozo or rural areas, you’ll need patience or your own vehicle.

Malta Tax Office: Understanding Taxes & Contributions

Malta’s tax system is EU-compliant, but it has its own quirks. The good news: For most international residents, it’s less complicated than the German system. The bad: You still need to know what’s coming your way.

Applying for a Tax ID Number: Step by Step

Your Malta Tax Number is needed for almost everything—bank account, job, lease, even some utility contracts. Applying is free and usually takes 5–10 working days.

Here’s how it works:

1. Fill in Form IR1 online or pick one up at the Tax Office
2. Proof of identity (passport or ID)
3. Proof of Maltese address
4. If employed: employment letter from your employer
5. If self-employed: description of your planned activity

You can apply via the InlandRevenue portal or in person at the Floriana or Gozo offices. Online is much faster—unless your case is complex, then a face-to-face meeting helps.

Tax Classes for International Residents

Malta differentiates between Ordinarily Resident, Non-Ordinarily Resident, and Non-Resident—this determines your tax liability.

For most digital nomads and expats, Non-Ordinarily Resident status is attractive: you only pay tax on income actually remitted to Malta. Smart, right?

Annual Tax Return: Deadlines & Forms

Tax returns are due by June 30 for the previous year. That gives you time, but don’t underestimate the effort. Malta runs a Final Settlement System—your tax is usually withheld at source, so your return is more of a balancing act.

Form FS3 for employees, FS7 for the self-employed. Both are filed online, but in complex cases (multiple incomes, foreign income, investments) I recommend a local tax advisor. They charge €200–€500, but it’ll save you headaches.

My practical tip: Collect receipts throughout the year. Malta accepts digital copies, but keep them organized. A simple folder by month works perfectly.

Jobsplus: Work Permit & Social Security

Jobsplus is Malta’s employment agency and social security body rolled in one. Here’s what in Germany would fall under the job center, pension office, and health fund. The upside: fewer different offices, but more complexity at each visit.

Work Permit for Non-EU Citizens

As an EU citizen, you don’t need a work permit in Malta–one of the big advantages of free movement. For everyone else, it’s more involved. The Single Permit combines residence and work permit and costs €280–€1,200 depending on job sector and nationality.

Your future employer will apply for you and has to post a job advertisement to prove no EU citizen is available for the position. Processing time: 8–16 weeks, longer in complex cases.

Special case digital nomads: In 2021, Malta introduced the Nomad Residence Permit for remote workers. Minimum salary €2,700 per month, valid for one year, costs €300. Interesting for anyone working remotely for foreign companies.

Applying for a Social Security Number

Your Maltese Social Security Number is needed for every job, insurance, or most benefits. Applying is free and takes about a week.

You’ll need:

• Proof of identity (passport or Maltese ID)
• Proof of Maltese address
• Employment letter or proof of self-employment
• If married: marriage certificate
• If you have children: birth certificates

Jobsplus has offices in Valletta, Birkirkara, and Gozo. Appointments are usually available within a week—a definite plus compared to other authorities.

Unemployment and Benefits

Malta’s social system is leaner than Germany’s but perfectly functional. Unemployment benefit is paid if you’ve contributed for at least 20 weeks. The amount depends on your previous salary: max €156 per week for singles, €312 for families.

Other benefits for international residents:

• Maternity benefit: 14 weeks paid maternity leave
• Sickness benefit: Sick pay from the 4th day off
• Injury benefit: For work accidents
• Children’s allowance: Child benefit for all residents with kids

All applications go through Jobsplus, usually online via the mygovmt.mt portal. What does this mean for you? Malta’s system has your back if you need it, but don’t expect German levels of support.

Malta Health Department: Navigating the Healthcare System

Malta’s healthcare is a hybrid of public basic coverage and private premium options. As an EU citizen, you’re entitled to public care—but most expats also take out private top-up insurance.

European Health Insurance Card vs. Local Health Insurance

Your German, Austrian, or Swiss European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) works in Malta for emergencies and basic care. But: You’re treated as a tourist, and waiting times can be long.

Once you register as a resident, you automatically get access to the Maltese national health insurance. Contributions are paid via your social security—about 10% of your gross salary, split between you and your employer.

The reality: For routine treatment and emergencies, the public system is absolutely sufficient. For specialist care or if you want to avoid waiting times, you’ll need private cover.

Finding & Registering With a Family Doctor

Every resident can sign up with a family doctor in the public system. This is free and done at your local health centre. Malta is divided into healthcare zones—you go to the centre for your address.

Registration:

1. Visit your zone’s health centre (list at health.gov.mt)
2. Complete registration form
3. Provide proof of identity and address
4. Social Security Number
5. If available: previous medical record

Family doctor appointments are typically available within 1–2 weeks. Emergencies are seen right away. Consultation fee for residents: €2.33—a symbolic sum.

Private vs. Public Healthcare

Malta has a dual system, both options have their place:

My practical tip: Use the public system for routine and emergencies and a private policy for the rest. That costs €400–€800 per year and opens doors to better appointments and treatment.

Bottom line: You’re well covered medically in Malta, but combining state health insurance with a private add-on gives you the best flexibility.

Local Councils: Community Services and Registration

Malta has 68 local councils—the municipalities looking after local services. From rubbish collection to planning permits, parking passes to community events—this is where daily life comes together.

Registering Your Address: Which Council Is Responsible?

Your address registration is done at your local council. This is not the same as your Residence Card from Identity Malta—it’s the local registration that gives you access to community services.

The process is simple:

• Go to your municipal office
• Show rental agreement or proof of ownership
• Proof of identity
• Utility bill from the last 3 months
• Small fee (usually €5–€15)

You’ll get a certificate of address which is needed for many other official procedures, opening bank accounts, and contracts. Processing is usually immediate or within 2–3 days.

Local Services: Rubbish, Water, Electricity

Councils organize waste collection: grey bags for general waste, black for organic, recycling in blue bags or bins. Systems vary but each area has fixed collection days.

Water and electricity are run by Enemalta and the Water Services Corporation—state companies, not a council matter. But your council can help with problems and contacts.

Other services from your local council:

• Parking permits: Resident parking for your street
• Building permits: For renovations and alterations
• Marriage ceremonies: Civil weddings
• Community events: Festivals, markets, info events
• Local taxes: Property and community charges

Community Services & Integration

Councils are also your go-to for integrating into the community. Many organize welcome events for new residents, language classes (usually Maltese, sometimes English for non-natives), and community groups.

The most active councils are in Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Valletta—naturally, as these areas have the most international residents. They often have their own Facebook groups and WhatsApp channels for announcements and community building.

My integration tip: Go to the local festa (town and saint festivals)—every municipality has at least one per year. It’s the best way to meet your neighbors and get a feel for the local culture.

Bottom line: The local council is your link to everyday Maltese life. Make use of the services, get involved, and you’ll soon find there’s a lot more to Malta than just sun and sea.

Banking and Financial Services: Opening an Account Made Easy

Opening a Maltese bank account has become easier, but it’s still not exactly a walk in the park. Banks have tightened their anti-money laundering checks, and as an international resident you’ll go through more background checks than a Maltese citizen.

The Major Maltese Banks Compared

Malta has three main banks, each with pros and cons for international clients:

Bank of Valletta (BOV) is Malta’s largest bank and often the best choice for residents. Great international reach, wide branch network, and they’re used to dealing with EU citizens.

HSBC Malta is premium, but pricier—ideal if you need frequent international transfers and top-level services. They also offer priority banking for high-net-worth clients.

APS Bank is smaller and more local, but cheaper and often more personal in service. Good choice if your banking is mostly local.

Opening an Account: Documents & Waiting Times

All banks now require an appointment to open an account. Standard required documents:

1. Proof of identity: Passport or EU-ID (original + copy)
2. Maltese address proof: Utility bill or certificate of address from the local council
3. Home country address: Bank statement or utility bill from the last 3 months
4. Employment letter: Work contract or proof of self-employment
5. Salary slips: Last 3 months’ pay slips
6. Tax number: Maltese tax ID
7. Initial deposit: Usually €100–€500

Note: With HSBC, you’ll often need a bank reference from your home bank—a formal letter about your creditworthiness and account conduct.

Processing takes 1–4 weeks depending on the bank and complexity of your case. EU employees with a straightforward profile generally get through quicker than the self-employed or investors.

Online Banking & International Transfers

All Maltese banks now have solid online banking. The apps are functional, if not quite as slick as German fintech solutions. SEPA transfers within the EU are free or cost €1–€3.

For international transfers outside the EU it gets more expensive: €15–€25 fee plus currency exchange markup. Alternatives: Services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Remitly—cheaper and often faster.

Practical tip: Open your Maltese account, but keep your home account running in parallel at first. It gives you flexibility and lets you see which suits your needs better.

Bottom line: Banking in Malta works, but isn’t exactly game-changing. Plan for 2–4 weeks to open an account, and expect higher fees than in Germany or Austria.

Notaries & Legal Services: Buying Property and Contracts

Malta’s legal system is based on continental civil law with British influences. For buying property, company formation, or complex contracts, you’ll need a notary public—who here is both notary and lawyer.

Finding a Notary: How to Choose the Right One

Malta has around 400 practicing notaries, but not all are experienced with international clients. The Malta Chamber of Notaries has an official list, but it won’t help you with quality assessment.

What to look out for:

• Language skills: Fluent English is a must, German/Italian is a bonus
• International experience: Familiar with EU nationals and cross-border deals
• Specialization: Property law, corporate law, or family law depending on your needs
• Reputation: Recommendations from expats or real estate agents
• Fee structure: Transparent pricing

My tip: Ask in Facebook groups like “Malta Expats” or “Malta Property” for recommendations. The community is helpful and candid in their reviews.

Buying Property: The Notarial Process

Property purchases in Malta always go through notaries—they represent both buyer and seller and ensure a neutral process. There are several stages:

1. Promise of Sale: Preliminary contract with 10% deposit
2. Due Diligence: Title check, encumbrances, permit verification
3. Final Deed: Notarized contract with remaining payment
4. Registration: Land Registry entry

Notary fees are set by law and based on the purchase price:

Additionally: Legal due diligence costs €800–€1,500, survey €300–€600, and if you need a mortgage, bank fees apply as well.

Legal Advice for International Residents

You may also need legal help for things other than buying property—such as work contracts, starting a business, or visa issues. Malta has specialized immigration lawyers and corporate lawyers well-versed in EU law.

Typical hourly rates:

• Junior associates: €80–€120/hour
• Senior associates: €150–€250/hour
• Partners: €300–€500/hour

For standard matters (reviewing a lease, simple company setup) there are often fixed prices between €200–€800.

Bottom line: Legal advice in Malta is professional and EU-compliant, but not cheap. Invest in proper advice for big decisions—it’ll save you money and trouble in the long run.

Insider Tips: How to Save Time and Nerves at the Authorities

After three years and countless runs to the authorities, I’ve picked up a few tricks that’ll save you hours of waiting and frustration. Here are my best insider tips for getting things done efficiently in Malta.

The Best Times to Visit the Authorities

Timing is everything when dealing with Maltese authorities. The golden rules:

• Tuesday to Thursday, 9:00–11:00am: Best time for all offices
• Avoid Mondays: Everyone’s still recovering from the weekend
• Avoid Fridays after 2:00pm: The weekend mood kicks in
• Never go 12:00–1:00pm: Lunch break is sacred
• Summer: go early: After 3:00pm many offices are closing already

Dates best avoided:

• The day after public holidays: Overloaded systems
• Last week of the month: Everyone scrambles to meet deadlines
• Festa weekends: Reduced staff in affected communities

Which Documents You Should Always Have With You

My “never-leave-home-without” list for official appointments:

1. Digital wallet: Photos of all important documents on your phone
2. Physical backup: Copies in a clear folder
   • Passport/ID + copy
   • Malta residence card + copy
   • Recent utility bill (no older than 3 months)
   • Employment letter or self-employment certificate
   • Tax number certificate
   • Bank statement from last 3 months
3. Cash: €50–€100 for unexpected fees
4. Phone with charged battery: For booking appointments on the spot
5. Black pen: Blue ink often not accepted

Pro tip: Make a checklist on your phone for each type of appointment. After your third visit, you’ll know exactly what’s needed where.

Apps & Online Services to Make Life Easier

Malta has gone digital—but not everything is on the same platform. The most important digital tools:

mygovmt.mt is your main gateway for most online services. You can book appointments, download forms, and get status updates for applications. Registration requires your Maltese ID or passport details and Malta address.

Secret tip: The Facebook pages of individual authorities are often more up-to-date than their official websites. Identity Malta, Transport Malta, and most local councils post real-time updates, new opening hours, and current queue status.

Bottom line: With the right prep and digital tools, the feared trip to the authorities becomes a manageable routine. Allow enough time, come prepared, and take it with laid-back Maltese attitude—“kulhadd jista’” (everyone can do it).

Frequently Asked Questions about Malta Authorities

Do I need a residence permit as an EU citizen in Malta?

No, you have the right to free movement. But: after 3 months, you should register (EU National ID Card at Identity Malta). This makes it much easier to open a bank account, sign a lease, or handle taxes.

How long does it take to get a Malta Tax Number?

The Malta Tax Number is usually issued within 5–10 working days. Online applications are typically faster than going in person. Since you’ll need it for most other official processes, make this your first priority.

Can I convert my German driver’s license in Malta?

Yes, as an EU citizen you can voluntarily convert your license. The process costs €24.65 plus the eye test (€15–25) and takes 2–3 weeks. Recommended for residents, but not required.

Which bank is best for international residents?

Bank of Valletta (BOV) is usually the best bet—biggest branch network, solid international services, reasonable fees. HSBC Malta is premium but pricier. APS Bank is cheaper but smaller. Opening an account takes 1–4 weeks depending on the bank.

Do I need a Maltese notary to buy property?

Yes, all property transactions must be notarized. The notary acts neutrally for both parties. Fees are set by law (0.5–1% of the purchase price) plus registration and stamp duty charges.

How do I find the right local council for my address?

Malta has 68 local councils. Enter your address at localcouncils.gov.mt, or ask at Identity Malta. The council is in charge of registration, parking permits, waste collection, and local services.

What does private health insurance cost in Malta?

Top-up private insurance costs €400–€800 per year for standard coverage. As a resident, you already get access to public health care through your social security contributions (approx. 10% of your gross salary).

What documents do I need for a social security number?

For your social security number at Jobsplus you’ll need: proof of identity, Malta address, employment letter or self-employment proof. Processing is free and takes about a week.

Can I book appointments online for all authorities?

Most major authorities have online booking systems: Identity Malta (mandatory), Transport Malta (recommended), Tax Office (for complex cases). Local councils often still have traditional walk-in hours. Appointments are typically booked up 2–3 weeks ahead.

What happens if I visit an authority without an appointment?

At Identity Malta, you won’t get in without an appointment. Other authorities still have walk-in times but expect to wait 1–3 hours. My tip: Always book if you can. If you must walk in: go early and bring plenty of patience.