Senior-Friendly Living in Malta: Accessible Options for International Seniors

I’m standing in the lobby of the Golden Years Residence in Sliema, watching Maria, 68, from Munich, ask at reception for the third time whether the lift is working today. “It was broken yesterday, and the day before as well,” she later explains to me over coffee. “But you know what? I would never go back to Germany.” That pretty much sums up what I’ve learned about senior living in Malta over the past two years: It’s far from perfect, but for many international retirees, it’s still the best decision of their lives.

Malta is becoming increasingly popular with pensioners who want to escape the German winter and stay EU citizens. But beware of Instagram photos showing endless sunsets—the reality is a bit more complicated. Here’s what senior-friendly living in Malta really means, what your options are, and what you should expect.

Malta as a Retirement Paradise: The Hard Facts

Why Malta Is Attractive for Seniors

Malta ticks all the right boxes: 300 days of sunshine a year, average winter temperatures around 20°C, and English as an official language. That means no language barrier when visiting the doctor or making a bank appointment. As an EU member since 2004, you won’t need any special visas or residence permits as a German senior.

There are already many Germans living permanently in Malta, a large portion of whom are over 65—and the number keeps rising. What surprised me: many don’t come just for the weather, but also because the cost of living is lower than in major German cities.

The Challenges No One Mentions

But let’s be honest—Malta has its downsides. Some infrastructure is outdated, lifts frequently out of order, and the streets are definitely not wheelchair-friendly. “Accessible entrance” here often means a ramp at a 20% incline—more obstacle than help.

The biggest issue? The property market is completely overheated. According to the Malta Property Price Index, real estate prices rose by an average of 45% between 2020 and 2024. What was a bargain five years ago now costs a small fortune.

Healthcare: EU Standards with a Maltese Twist

The good news: your German health insurance works through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). The not-so-good news: waiting times in the public system can last months. I know Germans who waited eight months for a hip replacement.

Private healthcare is much quicker, but more expensive. Comprehensive private health insurance for seniors ranges from 150 to 400 euros per month, depending on age and pre-existing conditions.

Living Options for Seniors in Malta: From Luxury to Practical

The Three Main Options at a Glance

Senior living in Malta is mainly split into three tracks: accessible owner-occupied apartments, specialist retirement homes, and assisted living. Each has its pros and cons—and honestly, none of them are perfect.

What “Senior-Friendly” Really Means in Malta

This is where things get interesting: Malta has no unified standards for senior-friendly housing as in Germany. “Senior-friendly” is often just marketing speak for “there’s a lift and no steps at the entrance.” True accessibility—non-slip floors, accessible sinks, grab rails in the bathroom—is pretty much only found in newly built luxury complexes.

My tip: Always ask for specific details. “Is the apartment senior-friendly?” is too vague. Better: “How wide are the doors? Are there any thresholds? Are the light switches low enough?” Trust me, I’ve seen too many Germans buy a supposedly “senior-friendly” apartment, only to find out that the only difference to a normal flat was the higher price.

Accessible Apartments and Condominiums

Buying vs. Renting: The Reality in 2025

Thinking of buying property in Malta as a senior? It’s possible, but complicated. EU citizens can only purchase one property, and it must cost over 175,000 euros (Gozo) or 220,000 euros (Malta). That sounds doable, but honestly? For truly accessible, well-located flats you’ll quickly pay double that.

Renting is often more practical, especially if you want to try things out first. But the rental market for accessible senior apartments is extremely tight. I know Germans who searched for months before finding something suitable.

The Best New Accessible Developments

If you’re looking to buy, focus on these current projects:

• Tigne Point, Sliema: Luxury apartments from 450,000€, all with lifts and wide doors
• Smart City Malta: Modern complex explicitly designed for seniors, from 380,000€
• Fort Cambridge: Well-established community, many Germans, apartments from 520,000€
• Portomaso, St. Julians: Prime harbour location, but high prices starting at 650,000€

What to Check at a Viewing

I regularly accompany German seniors to apartment viewings. Here’s my proven checklist:

1. Test the lift: Don’t just look—ride it. How long does it take? Is there an emergency call function?
2. Measure door widths: At least 80cm for wheelchairs, 70cm for walkers
3. Inspect the bathroom: Level-access shower? Grab rails? Space for a shower chair?
4. Balcony/terrace: Are there thresholds? How high is the railing?
5. Parking: Is a space included in the price? How far is it to the apartment?

Hidden Costs That Can Catch You Out

Maltese estate agents often “forget” to mention that plenty will be added to the purchase price. Expect to pay an extra 8–12% for taxes, notary fees, and agent commissions. With a 400,000€ apartment, that’s easily another 40,000€.

On top of that, there are monthly service charges (maintenance fees) of 80–200€, depending on the complex. Some luxury resorts charge even more—300–500€ per month for pool, gym, and concierge services.

Retirement Homes and Assisted Living

The Top Established Retirement Residences Reviewed

Malta has around a dozen specialist retirement residences, but only a few I’d consider up to German standards. I’ve visited the most important ones in person:

Golden Years Residence, Sliema

The best-known among German retirees. 120 apartments, German-speaking staff, in-house doctor. Sounds perfect, but: the waiting list is two years, and the monthly costs of 2,800–4,200€ put many off. The location is excellent—just a 5-minute walk to the promenade and shops.

Villa Messina, Rabat

Cheaper (1,900–3,200€/month), but also more remote. Beautiful old villa, very quiet, but you won’t get far without a car. Ideal if you’re looking for peace and have a driver, or still drive yourself.

St. Monica Residence, Floriana

New, modern, expensive (3,500–5,500€/month). Opened in 2023 and markets itself as “German standard.” Mostly true, but the minimum stay of two years is a tough requirement.

Assisted Living: Whats Available and What It Costs

Genuine assisted living as found in Germany is still rare in Malta. Most offers are really retirement homes with a little extra service. At the few places offering real care, you’ll pay 4,000–6,000€ per month.

The problem: qualified nursing staff is scarce and expensive in Malta. Many facilities employ Filipino or Indian carers—they are often dedicated, but their German is limited.

Pros and Cons in Plain Language

Healthcare and Medical Infrastructure

Understanding the Maltese Healthcare System

Malta has a two-tier healthcare system: public and private. As an EU citizen, your EHIC card entitles you to public treatment. Sounds good, but reality is mixed. Emergencies are dealt with quickly, but for non-urgent operations, you may wait months.

I know a German woman who waited nine months for a cataract operation in the public system. Privately, she could have had it in two weeks—for 2,500€ per eye. That’s the dilemma: public is free but slow, private is quick but expensive.

Private Health Insurance for Seniors

Most German seniors in Malta also have private health insurance. The costs vary greatly depending on age and medical history:

• 65–70 years: 180–280€/month
• 70–75 years: 250–400€/month
• 75+ years: 350–600€/month

Important: Pre-existing conditions are often excluded or come with hefty surcharges. My advice: get insurance before you move to Malta, while you’re still healthy.

Specialists and Advanced Treatments

Malta does have good specialists, but the choice is limited. For rare conditions or complex operations, many travel to Italy or Germany. You should factor that in—both financially and logistically.

The good news: routine treatments work well. GPs, cardiologists, orthopaedists—it’s all available. Many speak German or have German patients.

Medication and Pharmacies

Prescription medicines from Germany are usually available in Malta, sometimes under a different name. The main issue: not all German drugs are licensed. If you rely on special medication, clarify availability with a Maltese doctor beforehand.

Pharmacies are everywhere, but often close surprisingly early. Emergency pharmacies operate on a rota, but aren’t always easy to find. An app like “Malta Pharmacy” will help.

Costs and Financing: What You Can Really Expect

Monthly Living Costs in Detail

Forget the stories about “Malta is so cheap.” Those days are gone. Here are my realistic numbers, based on German seniors I know:

Hidden Costs That May Surprise You

Everyone thinks about rent and food, but Malta comes with a few cost traps that German retirees often underestimate:

• Air conditioning: An extra 150–300€ per month in summer. It’s a must.
• Water tanks: Many buildings have rooftop tanks that need cleaning. 100–200€ annually.
• Generator service: Power outages (happen more often than you think) require a generator. Maintenance costs 80€ a year.
• Flights home: A quick trip to Germany? 200–500€ per flight, depending on season.
• Internet and TV: Good internet costs 50–80€ per month, German TV another 30€.

Tax Aspects for German Pensioners

This is where things get complicated, and I strongly recommend consulting a tax advisor. Basically: If you live in Malta for more than 183 days a year, you become a Maltese tax resident.

German pensions are usually only taxed in Germany, but other income may be subject to double taxation. Malta has a special programme for pensioners with tax advantages, but also minimum stay requirements.

Financing and Bank Accounts

You’ll definitely need a Maltese bank account, if only for rent and utility payments. Opening an account as an EU citizen is straightforward, but allow 2–4 weeks for processing.

For property purchases, Maltese banks typically require 30–40% down payment. Interest rates currently stand at 4–6% for seniors. Many Germans prefer to secure a mortgage from home—it’s often cheaper and involves less paperwork.

Legal Aspects for EU Citizens

Residence Rights and Registration

As an EU citizen, you can stay and settle freely in Malta. Still, there’s some paperwork. If you plan to stay longer than three months, you should register with the Identity Malta Agency. It’s not mandatory, but makes admin much easier.

To register, you’ll need:

• Valid passport or ID card
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• Proof of address (rental contract or purchase agreement)

The process usually takes 2–3 weeks and costs 27.50€. You’ll then receive a Maltese identity card, which makes life much easier.

Moving Residence: Germany vs. Malta

This is a key decision: Do you want to give up your German residence or not? It has significant consequences for taxes, health insurance, and your German pension.

If you keep your German residence, you remain tax-liable in Germany and keep German health insurance. That’s often simpler, but not always cheaper. If you register in Malta and give up your German residence, Malta becomes your tax domicile.

Inheritance Law and Wills

A major issue people prefer not to discuss: what happens to your assets if you die in Malta? Since 2015, the EU Succession Regulation applies. In principle: the inheritance law of your habitual residence country prevails.

Maltese inheritance law is very different from German law. My strong advice: get your will checked by a lawyer specialising in international inheritance law. It costs 500–1,000€, but can save your heirs a lot of trouble.

Powers of Attorney and Advance Healthcare Directives

A German power of attorney or living will isn’t automatically valid in Malta. You’ll need Maltese documents or a certified translation. Very important: an advance directive should comply with Maltese medical standards.

I recommend having both German and Maltese documents. It gives you flexibility in case you need treatment in Germany.

The Best Regions for Seniors

Sliema: The Classic for German Seniors

Sliema is the hotspot for international retirees—and with good reason. Everything is within walking distance: doctors, pharmacies, supermarkets, restaurants. The seafront promenade is perfect for walks, and the ferry to Valletta runs every 15 minutes.

The catch: Sliema is also the most expensive. An accessible two-bedroom apartment rents for 1,200–2,500€ per month. In return, you get the island’s best infrastructure and an established German expat community.

St. Julians: Central but Touristy

St. Julians borders Sliema and offers similar advantages: good transport, plenty of services, international atmosphere. The downside: it’s very touristy, especially in summer. If you mind party noise until 3 AM, Paceville’s not for you.

The quieter parts of St. Julians (Tal-Għorg, Ta’ Ġiorni) are much more suitable for seniors. Here you’ll find modern apartments starting at 1,000€ per month.

Valletta: Historic but Challenging

The capital offers charm and culture, but can be tough for seniors: lots of stairs, steep alleys, limited parking. If you’re fit and love historic flair, Valletta can work. Otherwise, maybe not.

Mdina and Rabat: Peaceful but Remote

The old capital Mdina and nearby Rabat are beautiful and quiet. Perfect if you seek peace and have a car—without one, you can be pretty isolated. Buses exist but are infrequent.

Gozo: Paradise for Nature Lovers

Malta’s little sister island is by far the most scenic, but for seniors with special needs, it’s tough. Medical provision is limited, and for specialists you’ll need to cross over to Malta. If you’re in good health and love tranquillity, Gozo is perfect. Otherwise, not so much.

Checklist: Your Path to Senior-Friendly Housing

6–12 Months Before Moving

1. Plan a trial stay: Spend at least 4 weeks in your target region
2. Tax advice: Clarify the consequences of changing residence
3. Check health insurance: Take out private top-up insurance for Malta
4. View properties: Online browsing is fine for shortlisting, but never buy or rent without an in-person viewing
5. Calculate your budget: Factor in realistic living costs plus a buffer

3–6 Months Before Moving

1. Secure an apartment: Sign a rental or purchase agreement
2. Hire a moving firm: Choose an international removals specialist
3. Notify German authorities: Pension fund, tax office, etc.
4. Have documents translated: Will, power of attorney, medical records
5. Find a GP: Make contact before you move

Your First Weeks in Malta

1. Identity Malta Agency: Register and apply for an ID card
2. Open a bank account: At a Maltese bank
3. Set up utilities: Power, water, internet, phone
4. GP appointment: Initial check-up and discuss medication
5. Connect with the German community: Facebook groups, clubs, regular meetups

Important Contacts and Websites

• Identity Malta Agency: identitymalta.com
• German Embassy Malta: malta.diplo.de
• Malta Health Network: maltahealthnetwork.org
• German Association Malta: Active Facebook group for Germans in Malta
• Malta Property Portal: The island’s biggest property website

Frequently Asked Questions about Senior-Friendly Living in Malta

Can I easily move to Malta as a German pensioner?

Yes, as an EU citizen, you have the right to freedom of movement. You don’t need any special visas or permits. However, after three months you should register with the Identity Malta Agency and discuss the tax implications with an advisor.

How much money do I need each month for a comfortable life in Malta?

For a comfortable lifestyle, budget 3,000–3,500€ monthly. This covers a nice apartment, private health insurance, car or taxi use, and regular dining out. More frugal living is possible from 1,800€, while luxury starts at 5,000€.

Is healthcare in Malta good enough for seniors?

For routine treatments and common age-related conditions, Malta is well equipped. For rare illnesses or complex surgery, many people travel to Italy or Germany. Private health insurance is almost essential if you want to avoid long wait times.

Can I get my German medication in Malta?

Most German prescription drugs are also available in Malta, sometimes under a different name. For specialist medication, check ahead with a Maltese doctor before moving. If not, you can have medicines sent from Germany as a fallback.

How do I find a truly accessible apartment?

Don’t be fooled by marketing buzzwords. Ask specifically: door widths, thresholds, lift reliability, grab rails in the bathroom. Best to view in person or have someone check for you. Many so-called “senior friendly” apartments aren’t, on closer look.

Do I have to cancel my German health insurance?

That depends on your situation. Statutory insured can often remain in German health insurance and use their EHIC card for treatment in Malta. Private insureds should check if their cover includes Malta. In any case, Maltese supplementary health insurance is advisable.

Which region in Malta is best for seniors?

Sliema is the favourite among most German seniors: best infrastructure, many doctors, good transport links, and a strong German community. St. Julians is another option, though more touristy. Valletta has charm, but the many steps and steep alleys are demanding for seniors.

How high are electricity costs with air conditioning?

In summer, electricity bills can climb to 150–300€ monthly due to air conditioning. This surprises many Germans. Malta is hot and humid—most seniors can’t get by without AC. Factor this into your budget.

Can I bring my car from Germany?

Yes, but it’s complicated and expensive. You’ll need to pay import duties, re-register, and possibly convert the car (right-hand traffic). It’s often cheaper and easier to buy a car in Malta. Many German seniors manage fine without a car, using taxis or buses.

Are there German doctors in Malta?

Some Maltese doctors speak German or treat many German patients. Otherwise, English works perfectly—it’s Malta’s official language. There are few German doctors as such.