The Ultimate Malta Relocation Planner: 12 Months of Detailed Preparation for International Entrepreneurs

Planning Your Move to Malta: Why 12 Months of Preparation Are Invaluable

Let me tell you straight: Moving to Malta in just three months is possible, but you’ll pay at least €5,000 extra and sign up for a lot of unnecessary stress. After two years on the island and countless conversations with other expats, I can say one thing for sure: The most relaxed and successful moves to Malta all had one thing in common—at least a year of lead time.

Malta Move Costs: What to Expect Without a Plan

Dr. Mara from Zurich showed me her moving expenses last week. Because she rushed everything in six months, she paid €3,200 a month for a 2.5-bedroom apartment in Sliema. Had she started a year earlier, she would have paid €2,400. The difference? Time for negotiations and more viewings. With a 12-month Malta move plan, you don’t just save money. You also gain valuable contacts, learn Malta’s many quirks, and spot solutions others miss. Luca, the Italian UX designer, found his very first Maltese client during his planning phase—through a Facebook group he joined eight months before moving.

Moving to Malta: The Hidden Time Traps

Malta adores bureaucracy almost as much as Italy, but with the quirks of Britain. Some documents require apostilled translations. Others must be certified by the Maltese consulate in your home country. The famous e-Residence registration? Only happens at specific times and is often “temporarily unavailable” due to “technical issues.” This table shows what really eats up your time:

What does this mean for you? With a year’s lead time, you can breeze through every process. You have a buffer for delays and time for a Plan B if something goes wrong.

The Malta Move Timeline Advantage

A structured 12-month plan gives you three key advantages:

• Seasonal Optimization: Apartment hunting in winter (30% lower prices), move in spring (better availability)
• Network Building: Time for Facebook groups, LinkedIn contacts, and personal recommendations
• Financial Flexibility: Staggered expenses, better negotiation position, no sticker shock

Anna from Berlin timed her move to Malta perfectly. She started planning in January, locked in a dream apartment in August for a September move, and saved €4,800 in her first year thanks to her strategic approach.

Months 12–10: Malta Move Essentials and Initial Research

The first three months of your Malta move are for research. I know it sounds boring, but this stage lays the foundation for everything to come. Skip solid groundwork, and you’ll stumble into what I call the “Malta shock”—when reality crashes your Instagram expectations.

Understanding Maltas Regions: Where Do You Really Want to Live?

Malta may only be 316 square kilometers, but the differences between regions are dramatic. I break the island down into five lifestyle zones:

Dr. Mara thought Valletta was perfect—until she discovered many buildings have no elevator and she’d end up on the fourth floor with knee problems at 61 years old. Not ideal.

Malta Cost of Living: Budget Planning for Entrepreneurs

Most Malta guides gloss over the hidden costs. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for an entrepreneurial life in Malta: Monthly Fixed Costs (realistic figures):

• Rent (2-bed, good location): 2,000–2,800€
• Utilities (electricity, water, internet): 180–250€
• Private health insurance: 150–300€
• Car lease incl. insurance: 350–500€
• Groceries (high standard): 400–600€
• Restaurants/going out: 300–800€
• Miscellaneous (cell phone, gym, etc.): 200–400€

Total: 3,580–5,650€ per month Surprised? So was I when I arrived. Malta is pricier than Munich, but cheaper than Zurich. The trick is smart budgeting.

Malta Taxes for Entrepreneurs: The 5% Myth

Let’s be clear: Malta’s famous 5% tax rate is real, but it’s not automatic. You’ll need a Maltese company, a local tax certificate, and must meet certain substance requirements. Luca paid 18% tax his first year because he couldn’t use the Non-Dom arrangement yet. Malta Tax Optimization Timeline:

1. Months 12–10: Research tax advisors and get initial consultations
2. Months 9–7: Apply for Non-Dom status
3. Months 6–4: Plan your company structure
4. Months 3–1: Set up your Malta company

Pro tip: The best Malta tax advisors are booked quickly. Reach out to 3–5 firms now. Expect to pay €300–500 per consultation—it’s money well spent.

Malta Move Checklist: The First 90 Days

In your first three planning months, check off these milestones: Month 12:

• Join Facebook groups: “Malta Expat Community,” “Malta Business Network,” “Germans in Malta”
• Optimize your LinkedIn profile for Malta
• Schedule your first tax consultation
• Set up a budget plan

Month 11:

• Pick a region (3–4 property viewings during a visit)
• Contact banks (HSBC, BOV, APS Bank)
• Compare international health insurance options
• Make first contacts with Malta real estate agents

Month 10:

• Plan a reconnaissance trip to Malta (7–10 days)
• Request moving company quotes
• Gather and translate documents
• Book a first company structure consultation

Anna told me her Facebook group contacts from month 12 ended up becoming her best friends in Malta. Networking pays double here—personally and professionally.

Months 9–7: Legal Requirements and Visas for Malta

This is where things get real. Months 9–7 are all about legal matters—making sure your stay in Malta is perfectly legal from day one. I’ve seen how much more relaxed entrepreneurs are when their documentation is in order—and how stressed others are.

Malta Visa Requirements: EU vs. Non-EU Citizens

As an EU citizen, you’ve got it much easier. You don’t need a visa, but you still need certain proofs for longer stays. Dr. Mara from Switzerland, as a non-EU citizen, had much more paperwork. For EU citizens (staying over 3 months):

• Valid national ID card or passport
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• Health insurance
• If self-employed: business registration or business plan

For Non-EU citizens:

• Malta Residence Permit (for stays over 90 days)
• Clean criminal record (apostilled)
• Medical certificate
• Proof of €14,000 on a Maltese bank account
• Proof of accommodation in Malta

Malta Residence Permit: Essential for Non-EU Citizens

Dr. Mara’s Malta Residence Permit took four months—normal for the process. Managed by Identity Malta, the application costs €280 plus processing fees. Malta Residence Permit Timeline:

Important: Don’t apply until your Malta apartment is confirmed. Identity Malta automatically rejects applications without valid proof of residence.

Tax Residence in Malta: Applying for Non-Dom Status

Non-Dom status is the heart of Malta tax savings for entrepreneurs. Without it, you’ll pay regular EU rates. With it, you can legally reduce your tax bill. Malta Non-Dom Status Requirements:

• Tax residence in Malta (at least 183 days/year)
• Proof you were not born in Malta
• Proof your parents are not Maltese citizens
• Informal application to Malta Tax Authority

Luca got his Non-Dom status after six weeks. The trick: Have all documents translated into English and apostilled. Malta Tax Authority won’t accept German or Italian originals.

Setting up a Company in Malta: Timing and Options

Many entrepreneurs rush to set up a Malta company immediately. That’s a mistake. Wait until month 7 or 8—once you know Malta is a long-term fit. Malta Company Options for International Entrepreneurs:

Anna is self-employed and pays about 25% tax on her German remote income—fair and simple for starting out.

Apostilling Documents for Malta: What’s Actually Needed?

Malta loves apostilled documents. Here’s what you really need (and what’s often requested but not always required): Absolutely Required:

• Birth certificate (apostilled + English translation)
• Police clearance certificate (not older than 3 months)
• University degrees (for certain professions)
• Marriage certificate (if married)

Often requested, but not always required:

• Divorce decrees
• Work certificates
• Tax certificates

Pro tip: Apostille everything you can upfront. Costs €10–25 per document but saves time and stress later.

Health Insurance in Malta: Mandatory for Everyone

Malta requires everyone to have health insurance. The public option is free for EU citizens but wait times are long. Private Health Insurance Providers in Malta (recommended):

• BUPA Malta: €180–350/month, excellent service
• La Valette Insurance: €120–280/month, local provider
• Globalance Health: €200–400/month, international coverage

Dr. Mara pays €320/month with BUPA and is very satisfied. Specialist appointments within a week, modern clinics, English-speaking doctors.

Months 6–4: Finding an Apartment and Navigating Malta’s Real Estate Market

Apartment hunting in Malta is a sport of its own. After two years here, I know that understanding the real estate market saves thousands and gets you much better places. Go in naive, and you end up overpaying or in a moldy basement apartment.

Malta’s Real Estate Market: Insider Rules

Malta’s property market has its own rules. Most international renters don’t understand these three basics:

1. Seasonality rules all: August/September is 40% pricier than January/February
2. Landlords prefer Maltese tenants: Foreigners often pay €200–500 extra
3. Weekday viewings: Better deals are usually found during the week

Anna played this perfectly: She did her viewings in January, signed in February, and saved €600 per month versus summer renters.

Finding a Flat in Malta: The Best Platforms and Tactics

Forget German real estate websites—Malta works differently. The best apartments come through three channels: Primary sources (80% of the good listings):

• Facebook Marketplace: “Malta Property for Rent,” “Apartments Malta”
• Maltese real estate agents: Frank Salt, QuickLets, RE/MAX Malta
• Local contacts: Hairdressers, restaurants, neighbors often know insider deals

Secondary sources (20% of the listings):

• Malta Property.com
• PropertyMalta.com
• International Living Malta Facebook groups

Dr. Mara found her dream apartment through a hairdresser in Valletta. His cousin rented her a 3-bed flat with sea view for €2,200 instead of €3,000.

Malta Rent 2025: Realistic Expectations

Malta gets pricier every year, but prices vary wildly depending on timing, location, and negotiation skills.

Prices are for furnished apartments in good condition. Unfurnished? You’ll save €200–400 but face extra costs and a longer settling-in period.

Viewing an Apartment in Malta: What to Watch Out For

Maltese landlords often gloss over issues. Here’s my checklist to avoid costly surprises: Technical Inspection (at every viewing):

• Water pressure: Run all taps, check the shower
• Air conditioning: Turn it on and let it run for 10 minutes
• Internet speed: Run a quick speed test (Malta standard is 100 Mbps)
• Mold: Check corners, window frames, behind furniture
• Noise: Ask about construction, airplane noise, neighbors

Spotting contract pitfalls:

• Deposit over 2 months’ rent? Negotiate!
• Utilities “about €100”? Ask for actual bills
• Cancellation only year-end? That’s not the norm here
• No pets allowed? Often negotiable

Luca nearly rented a place with a broken AC. The landlord promised to “fix it next week”—typical Malta-speak for “never.”

Malta Rent Contracts: Negotiation Tips for Entrepreneurs

As an international entrepreneur, you have more leverage with landlords than you think. Maltese landlords value reliable, long-term tenants. Your negotiation levers:

• Stability: “I’ll be here at least 2 years”
• Financial security: “I can pay 6 months in advance”
• Care: “I’ll treat the place like it’s my own”
• References: “Previous landlords can vouch for me”

Typical wins in negotiation:

• Lower rent: €100–300 off with annual prepayment
• Lower deposit: Just 1 month instead of 2
• Cleaning included: Weekly maid service for free
• Furniture upgrades: Better sofa or bigger TV

Dr. Mara negotiated a €3,000 apartment down to €2,600 plus weekly cleaning. Her secret: Offered 6 months’ upfront, spotless references.

Malta Areas in Detail: Where Entrepreneurs Should Live

After two years and chats with 50+ entrepreneurs in Malta, clear patterns have emerged: Sliema/St. Julians: The Business Hub – Pro: Best restaurants, international crowd, everything nearby – Con: Touristy, noisy, expensive – Ideal for: Network-driven entrepreneurs, foodies – Anna’s verdict: “Expensive, but I save time and find clients easily.” Valletta: The Cultural Heart – Pro: Historic, car-free, cultural vibes – Con: Limited parking, touristy, fewer restaurants – Ideal for: Culture buffs, individualists, history fans – Dr. Mara’s verdict: “Every morning feels like a museum, but the evenings are quiet.” Gzira/Msida: Malta’s Mainstream – Pro: Authentic, good prices, central – Con: Less international, more traffic – Ideal for: Malta newbies, budget-conscious entrepreneurs – Luca’s verdict: “Real Maltese vibe, but less entertainment at night.” Gozo: The Hideaway – Pro: Beautiful nature, affordable, relaxed, great work-life balance – Con: Isolated, limited business network, ferry dependence – Ideal for: Remote workers, nature lovers, stress escapees – Insider tip: “Perfect for 3–6 months, but businesswise a bit limiting.”

Months 3–1: Moving Logistics and Final Preparations for Malta

This is crunch time. The last three months before your Malta move decide between a smooth start or total chaos. I’ve seen firsthand how much easier life is for entrepreneurs who prep perfectly—and how long it takes the unprepared to catch up.

Choosing a Malta Moving Company: Quality Costs

Moving to Malta isn’t like a domestic German move; you’re shipping over borders, by sea, and into a new legal system. The differences between moving companies are dramatic. Types of Malta Moving Companies:

Anna picked a Malta-specialised firm and paid €4,800—everything went smoothly, from pickup in Berlin to customs and delivery in Malta. Dr. Mara squeezed costs and waited five weeks for her furniture.

Malta Customs and Import Rules: What You Need to Know

Malta is in the EU, but customs still matter. Certain items are tricky or banned. Malta imports without issue:

• Household appliances and furniture (used)
• Clothes and personal items
• Computer/electronics (for personal use)
• Books and paperwork

Malta imports with restrictions:

• Alcohol: Max 90 liters of wine, 110 liters beer, 10 liters spirits
• Tobacco: 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos
• Medicine: Only with prescription and for personal use
• Plants: Phytosanitary certificate needed

Malta banned imports:

• Meat and dairy (even German sausage!)
• Weapons and ammunition
• Drugs and certain medicines
• Protected species (animal or plant)

Luca had to give up his beloved Italian salami at customs. If only he’d known to eat it beforehand.

Opening a Bank Account: The Key to Malta’s System

You can’t run anything long-term without a Maltese bank account. Rent, taxes, salary—it’s all local. Opening an account takes longer (and more documents) than you’d think. Malta Banks Compared:

Malta Bank Documents (always updated):

• Passport (original + copy)
• Malta address proof (lease or utility bill)
• Proof of income (employment contract or tax notice)
• Reference letter from German bank
• Minimum deposit: €100–1,000 depending on the bank

Dr. Mara opened her account with HSBC, pays €18 a month, and gets top-tier online banking and cheap transfers to Switzerland.

Malta Move Checklist: The Final 90 Days

This checklist helped Anna move without stress—work through it week by week: Month 3 (12 weeks before the move):

• Book a moving company and fix the date
• Finalise and sign your Malta lease
• Get international health insurance
• Prep German bank account for Malta transfers
• Cancel all German contracts/subscriptions/leases

Month 2 (8 weeks to go):

• Start Malta bank account application
• Sort belongings: pack, sell, toss
• Order a Malta SIM card online
• Prepare German tax return (important for Non-Dom)
• Book Malta flight and first accommodation

Month 1 (4 weeks to go):

• Get moving insurance
• Do a final check of Malta entry requirements
• Arrange emergency cash (€2,000 for the early days)
• Update friends/family with your Malta address
• Plan a farewell party (essential for morale!)

Importing or Buying a Car in Malta: The Cost Question

A common dilemma: Bring your German car, or buy local? After two years and many chats, here’s my advice: Importing your car to Malta makes sense if:

• Your German car is less than 3 years old
• It’s a specialty car (EV, luxury, rare model)
• You have emotional attachment and budget isn’t a concern
• The car’s value is over €25,000

Buying in Malta makes sense if:

• Your German car is over 5 years old
• It’s a standard model, nothing special
• You’re budget-minded
• You’re flexible with models

Malta Car Import Costs (e.g. Golf GTI, 3 years old):

• Ferry transport: €800–1,200
• Customs and registration: €1,800–2,500
• TÜV-equivalent and reregistration: €300–500
• Time and hassle: priceless frustration
• Total: €2,900–4,200

Luca imported his four-year-old BMW—regretted it. €3,800 extra costs and six weeks of appointments. Equivalent BMW in Malta would have been €3,000 less.

Hooking Up Utilities: Power and Internet in Malta

Once you’ve signed your lease, register for electricity and internet—it’s quite digital and fast in Malta. Malta Electricity (Enemalta):

• Online registration: www.enemalta.com.mt
• Time: 3–5 working days
• Cost: €50 deposit plus first bill
• Average monthly use (2-bed): €80–150 (with AC)

Malta Internet (Melita/Go/Epic):

• Melita: Fastest, €45–65/month
• Go Malta: Reliable, €35–55/month
• Epic: Cheapest, €25–45/month, sometimes slower

Anna swears by Melita: “200 Mbps download, never any outages, perfect for video calls.” Price: €59/month.

Moving Month: Arrival in Malta and First Steps

Now it gets real. You’ve landed at Malta International, your container’s on the way, your Malta adventure begins. The first weeks decide if your move will be a win—or get lost to stress. Here’s how to conquer those critical first 30 days.

Arrival in Malta: Making the First 48 Hours Count

Your first two days in Malta are crucial. You need to lay administrative groundwork, handle practical matters, and adjust mentally. Doing things in the right order makes all the difference. Day 1 – Set up the essentials:

1. Activate Malta SIM card: At the airport or your first Melita/Go shop
2. Finalize your bank account: Attend your pre-booked appointment
3. Move into your flat: Key handover, document the state of things
4. Activate power/internet: Usually automatic, but double check

Day 2 – Orientation and first contacts:

1. Supermarket tour: Explore Wolt, Bolt Food, local markets
2. Organize transport: Install Bolt app, buy bus passes
3. First Malta contacts: Meetup via Facebook groups, visit coworking spaces
4. Set up an emergency cash buffer: €1,000 in your Malta account

Anna says: “My biggest mistake was booking three government appointments on day one. After six hours, I was totally overwhelmed. Next time, I took two days just to settle in.”

Malta Administration: The Most Important Offices in the First Two Weeks

Malta loves its paperwork, but it’s more organized than you’d expect. Doing things in the right order saves you a lot of stress. Weeks 1–2: Must-do appointments

Pro tips for all admin appointments:

• Book online: bookings.identitymalta.com
• Go early (8:00–10:00am)
• Bring two copies of every document
• Be patient—Maltese officials are thorough

Dr. Mara finished all government appointments in 10 days by booking online and arriving early. Luca took six weeks—he tried to walk in and was sent away often.

Day-to-Day Life in Malta: Shopping, Transport, Healthcare

After sorting paperwork, it’s time for quality of life. Malta works differently from Germany—if you understand the quirks, you’ll live more comfortably. Shopping in Malta: Where to find what

• Pama/Valyou supermarkets: German products, higher prices
• Lidl Malta: Familiar brands, good value
• Wolt/Bolt Food: Delivery, €2–3 surcharge, but saves time
• Local markets (Marsaxlokk, Valletta): Fresh, cheap, authentic

Transport in Malta: Your options

• Public transport: €2/2 hours, often delayed
• Bolt/eCabs: €8–15 per trip, reliable
• Renting/buying a car: €300–600/month, parking is tough
• E-scooters: Perfect for short trips, €0.15/min

Healthcare in Malta: Practical tips

• Find a GP: Via private health insurance or Malta Health Portal
• Emergency: Mater Dei Hospital (public) or Vitals Hospitals (private)
• Pharmacies: Everywhere, lots of German medicines available
• Dentists: High standard, but pricey (€150–300 per treatment)

Anna shops at Lidl, takes Bolt to work, and has Dr. Sarah Micallef as her GP. Monthly core costs: €280 for transport, €400 for groceries, €180 for insurance.

Networking in Malta: The Must-Know Communities for Entrepreneurs

Malta is small—the right network opens doors to clients, friends, and business deals. But not all communities are equally valuable. Malta Business Communities (online):

• “Malta Business Network” (Facebook): 8,500+ members, active discussions
• “Malta Entrepreneurs Hub” (LinkedIn): Quality over quantity, serious contacts
• “Germans in Malta Business” (WhatsApp): Instant exchange, fast help

Malta Networking Events (offline):

• Malta Chamber of Commerce events: Monthly, established entrepreneurs
• Startup Malta Meetups: Modern, international, innovative
• Valletta Wine & Networking: Relaxed, diverse, great contacts

Malta Expat Communities:

• Malta Expat Community (Facebook): 15,000+ members, practical tips
• International Living Malta: Many retirees, but helpful
• Malta Digital Nomads: Young professionals, remote workers

Dr. Mara found her lawyer through a Malta Chamber event. Luca found his first Malta clients via the Digital Nomads. Anna’s approach: “Facebook for questions, LinkedIn for business, offline events for real friends.”

Receiving Your Belongings: Container Handling in Malta

Your container arrives 5–14 days after you land. The process runs via Valletta port or Freeport. Here’s what makes the difference between a hassle-free delivery or weeks of waiting. Step-by-step: Picking up your container

1. Arrival notification: SMS/email from moving company
2. Submit customs docs: Packing list, value statements, personal declaration
3. Customs inspection: 10–30% of containers opened
4. Release & delivery: Schedule delivery to your address

How to avoid customs headaches:

• Create a detailed packing list (in English)
• Give realistic (not exaggerated) value statements
• No food, alcohol over the limit, or plants
• If in doubt: call Malta Customs before shipping

Anna’s container was inspected because she wrote “various electronics” instead of listing each item. Three days’ delay. Dr. Mara’s packing list was perfect—her container was cleared right away.

The First Week After a Move: Psychological Adjustment

Moving your belongings is one thing. Adapting mentally is another. After two years in Malta, I know: The first week shapes your Malta happiness. Malta Culture Shock: What to expect

• Pace: “Urgently” means “this week, maybe”
• Noise: Construction, buses, fireworks—Malta is loud
• Bureaucracy: Everything needs forms, stamps, patience
• Size: In two weeks, you’ll know every corner

Coping strategies for Malta:

• Don’t overplan your first week—leave yourself a buffer
• Dial down the German perfectionism—Malta works differently
• Find at least one chill café or restaurant to retreat to
• Talk to other expats—you’re not alone

Luca says: “My first week frustrated me. Everything took longer, worked differently. A German entrepreneur finally told me: ‘Malta isn’t Germany with sun. It’s a different country with different rules.’ That helped.”

After Moving to Malta: Mastering the First 30 Days

Your first 30 days post-move are crucial. They’ll decide if you fall in love with Malta or head home frustrated. After two years here and talking with 100+ entrepreneurs, I know the classic traps—and tried-and-tested fixes.

Settling In: The 30-Day Challenges

Every new Malta resident faces similar phases. Recognizing them helps you handle things better. Weeks 1–2: Honeymoon phase – Everything is new, exciting, sunny – Tourist mode: beaches, restaurants, sightseeing – Danger: Overestimating your long-term happiness Weeks 3–4: Reality check – First frustrations with Maltese bureaucracy – Everyday headaches: Internet blackouts, loud neighbors, high prices – Homesickness and doubts Weeks 5–8: Adaptation or rejection – You either find your Malta rhythm – Or you’re already planning your exit Anna explains it best: “Malta was paradise the first two weeks. By week three I wanted to go home. By week six I got it—and started to feel at home.”

Starting Your Business in Malta: Entrepreneur’s First Steps

As an international entrepreneur, you need to get operational quickly. Malta’s full of opportunity—if you understand the scene here. Getting your company running (first 30 days):

Business Banking in Malta: Top Choices

• HSBC Business: International, expensive (€80/month), but the best services
• BOV Business: Well established locally, affordable (€35/month), Maltese focus
• APS Business: Modern, mid-price (€50/month), good online services

Dr. Mara uses HSBC for her consulting firm: “€80 a month, but international wires are fast and the service is superb.”

Optimizing Taxes in Malta: Non-Dom in Practice

The first 30 days are crucial for your Malta tax savings. You’ll need to prove you really live and work here. How to prove Malta tax residency (important for Non-Dom):

• Malta address: Lease, utility bills in your name
• Daily life documentation: Grocery receipts, café bills, gym registration
• Business activity: Malta clients, local meetings, coworking membership
• Social integration: Facebook check-ins, restaurant visits, events

Malta vs. Germany Tax Rates (example):

Luca is saving around €18,000 a year with his Malta setup on €120,000 income. The effort: 2 setup days, then four hours a month for paperwork.

Creating a Malta Lifestyle: Finding Work-Life Balance

Malta isn’t Germany. Work-life balance follows the Mediterranean pace. Accept that and you’ll feel much more relaxed. Malta workday rhythm (typical):

• Start early: 7:30–8:00am work start
• Siesta respect: 1:00–3:00pm, little business happens
• Long evenings: Shops open till 7:00–8:00pm
• Flexibility: Appointments shift, but life is calmer

Malta must-do leisure (try in your first 30 days):

• Sunrise swim: 6:30am at Balluta Bay or Golden Bay
• Sunday market: Marsaxlokk fish market, real Maltese vibe
• Valletta galleries: Art, culture, historic flair
• Gozo day trip: Ferry at 8:00, back at 18:00
• Business lunch: The Phoenicia, InterContinental or Corinthia

Anna nailed her Malta rhythm: “6:30 swim, 8:00–13:00 work, 15:00–18:00 back on the clock, 19:00 aperitif in Sliema.”

Building Your Social Life in Malta: Making Friends as an Entrepreneur

Malta is small, but the expat community is large and supportive. Make the right connections in your first 30 days. Best spots for meeting friends in Malta:

• Coworking spaces: The Brew (Gzira), Worx Republic (Valletta), Business Hub (Sliema)
• Sports clubs: Fortina Spa Golf, Marsa Sports Club, Dragon Boat Malta
• Business events: Malta Chamber Events, Startup Grind Malta, Expat Professional Network
• Restaurants with a “local’s table” feel: Guze (Valletta), Boho (Gzira), Waterbiscuit (Sliema)

Malta expat groups by nationality:

• Germans: “Germans in Malta” (1,200+), regular meetups
• Italians: “Italiani a Malta” (2,800+), very active
• Brits: “Brits in Malta” (5,500+), well established
• International: “Malta Expat Network” (12,000+), mixed community

Dr. Mara: “Through the German table I found my best friend, my dentist, and even a client. Malta’s like a big village—but a very international one.”

Solving Problems: Avoiding Typical Malta Rookie Mistakes

Every Malta newcomer makes the same few mistakes. Know them and save time, money, and nerves. The 7 most common Malta rookie mistakes:

1. Driving too much: Parking is rare and costly, public transport is often enough
2. Underestimating summer: July/August are scorching; many Maltese leave the island
3. Paying tourist prices: Restaurants with a sea view are 50% higher
4. German directness: Maltese are more polite, less direct
5. Getting stuck in the expat bubble: Connecting with real Maltese people is invaluable
6. Rushing decisions: Apartment, car, gym—test first, then commit
7. Impatience with officials: Maltese time is slower, but you’ll still get things done

Malta success strategies (first 30 days):

• Make at least three Maltese friends
• Establish five favorite restaurants
• Start one new hobby or sport
• Build your daily routine (market, gym, café)
• Create a business network of 10+ people

Luca’s recipe: “I met a new person every day, tried a new restaurant every night, and explored a different part of Malta each weekend. After 30 days, Malta felt like home.”

Frequently Asked Questions about Moving to Malta

How long does it take to move to Malta from Germany?

A professional Malta move takes 7–14 days for transportation plus 2–4 weeks for all admin. With 12 months of prep, the process is smooth; with 3 months, it’s hectic but doable.

How much does it cost for an entrepreneur to move to Malta?

Budget €15,000–25,000 for the first year: €4,000–7,000 for the move, €24,000–36,000 rent, €2,000 for admin/lawyers, plus monthly living costs of €3,500–5,500.

Do I need a visa for Malta as an EU citizen?

No, EU citizens don’t need a visa for Malta. For stays over 3 months, you must apply for an e-Residence Card (€27.50) and prove you have enough funds.

How do I open a bank account in Malta?

Opening a Malta bank account takes 2–6 weeks. You’ll need: passport, Malta address, proof of income, and a reference from your German bank. HSBC and BOV are the top picks.

Can I really pay just 5% tax in Malta?

Yes, but only with Non-Dom status, a Maltese company, and the right setup. Most entrepreneurs pay 15–25% initially and optimize over time. A good tax advisor is essential.

How do I find a flat in Malta?

The best finds are on Facebook Marketplace, through local agents (QuickLets, Frank Salt), and via personal contacts. Winter viewings save you €200–500/month.

Is Malta really as expensive as people say?

Malta is more expensive than Germany for rent and dining—but cheaper for taxes and healthcare. With a smart plan, you can live comfortably on €4,000–6,000 per month.

Can I bring my German car to Malta?

Yes, but it costs €3,000–5,000 (shipping, customs, reregistration). For cars older than 3 years, it’s usually better to buy locally. EU driving licenses are valid for 6 months, then must be converted.

What’s the weather in Malta really like?

300+ sunny days, but July/August regularly top 35°C (95°F). Best time to move: April–June or September–November. Winters are mild (15–18°C/59–65°F) but rainy.

What if Malta turns out not to be for me?

About 20% of movers leave again after 1–2 years. As an EU citizen, you can always move back. Important: Properly end your Malta tax residency and cancel all contracts.