Digital Nomad Life in Malta
Summary: Malta is a popular destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Malta are Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian's. Digital nomads like living in Malta because of its low cost of living, its warm climate, and its vibrant culture. A digital nomad can live on a monthly budget of around €1,500 in Malta. This budget would cover rent, food, transportation, and other basic expenses. The culture of Malta is a mix of Mediterranean and British influences. The country is known for its friendly people, its beautiful beaches, and its rich history. Malta is also known for its vibrant nightlife, its delicious cuisine, and its stunning architecture.
How do I meet people in Malta?
When we asked people living in Malta about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Malta often join clubs and activities such as sailing, diving, and golfing. There are also many social clubs and meetups that expats can join to meet other people. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to Malta, which can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals," said one expat who made the move to Malta.
What is life like in Malta?
When we asked people living in Malta what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Malta is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its warm climate, low cost of living, and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads in Malta can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the island's stunning beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife. The country also offers excellent healthcare and education systems, making it an ideal place to live and work. Expats and digital nomads in Malta can also benefit from the country's strong economy and business-friendly environment, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and freelancers," explained one person living in Malta.
Where should I live in Malta?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"St Julians/Sliema is effectively the centre of Malta in terms of bars, restaurants, beaches and everything a visitor might want or expect from Malta," explained one expat living in Malta, Malta.
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Malta is to use online resources such as property websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. You can also search for rental properties on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in Malta for recommendations. Once you have identified a few potential properties, it is important to visit them in person to get a better feel for the area and to ensure that the property meets your needs," said one person in Malta.
What do I need to know before moving to Malta?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Malta, they said:
"Malta is a great destination for retirees looking for a sunny, Mediterranean lifestyle. Expats should research the cost of living in Malta, as it is higher than in many other countries. It is also important to consider the language barrier, as Maltese is the official language, although English is widely spoken. Expats should also be aware of the healthcare system in Malta, as it is a public system and may not meet the same standards as in other countries. Additionally, expats should research the tax system in Malta, as there are certain tax benefits for retirees. Finally, expats should consider the cultural differences between their home country and Malta, as this can affect their experience of living in the country," explained one expat living in Malta.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Malta?
"Expats in Malta appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people, as well as the laid-back atmosphere and relaxed lifestyle. They also enjoy the country's rich cultural heritage, with its many historical sites, traditional festivals, and vibrant music and art scenes. The Mediterranean climate and stunning natural scenery are also a major draw for expats, as is the country's excellent healthcare system and low cost of living," said one person in Malta.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Malta?
"Expats in Malta often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as Maltese is the official language and English is not as widely spoken as in other countries. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and adjust to. Expats may also find it difficult to make friends with locals, as the Maltese tend to be quite reserved and may not be as open to newcomers as in other countries," explained one expat living in Malta.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Malta for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Malta for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term residence permit or a permanent residence permit. You may also need to apply for a visa if you are from a country that requires one for entry into Malta," explained one expat living in Malta.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Malta?
We asked people in Malta if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Malta. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to be respectful when speaking to locals. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to respect them," said one expat who made the move to Malta.
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What are healthcare services like in Malta?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Malta, they replied:
"Malta offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Maltese citizens and permanent residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents are also eligible for free public healthcare, provided they have a valid residence permit. Expats in Malta can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Department of Health and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as Maltese citizens, including free doctor visits and hospital care," explained one digital nomad living in Malta.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Malta?
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the warm climate and relaxed lifestyle that Malta has to offer. The country is also known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the country is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a variety of historical sites and attractions to explore. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads may find the island to be quite small and lacking in diversity, with limited opportunities for outdoor activities. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Maltese," said a member in Malta.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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Digital Nomads in Malta offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Malta.