Relocating abroad is a big decision. If you’re researching how to move to Malta, you’re likely thinking about lifestyle, residency rules, renting or buying property, and long-term plans all at once. With the right guidance, the process can be clear and manageable from the outset.
Malta is popular with professionals, retirees, remote workers, investors and families looking for a safe, English-speaking country within the European Union. It’s compact, well-connected and easy to navigate. You can live near the sea, close to business hubs, or in a quieter village setting, all within short driving distances.
The weather in Malta allows you to make the most of your outdoor space. The year-round mild climate means balconies, terraces, roof gardens, and pool areas can be used year-round. This is one reason properties with terraces, sea views, or pools remain in steady demand.
English is an official language in Malta and is used in business, education, legal contracts and public services. This makes settling in far easier for international movers. Most people can manage daily life from day one without language barriers.
As a full EU member state, Malta provides a stable European base. The island has strong flight connections across Europe and beyond, making it practical for work, travel and maintaining ties abroad.
Malta is compact. You can live near the coast and still reach offices, schools, hospitals and the airport within 20-30 minutes. For many families and professionals, this improves day-to-day quality of life.
A large expat population already calls Malta home. Professionals, retirees, remote workers, and investors from across Europe, the UK, North America, and other regions have settled here, creating a welcoming and internationally minded environment.
From seafront apartments in Sliema and St Julian’s to family homes in Attard, luxury living in Mellieħa, or villas and farmhouses in Gozo, Malta has options for different budgets and lifestyles. High-end Lifestyle Developments also provide added flexibility for international buyers.
Take a look at the latest Malta properties for sale across Malta and Gozo and start picturing what your move could become.
If you’re looking into how to move to Malta, the rules around residency will depend you’re an EU or non-EU citizen.
EU nationals have the right to live and work in Malta under freedom of movement rules. You can enter without a visa and remain for up to three months without registering.
If you plan to stay longer, you must register your residence locally. This usually involves showing proof of employment, self-employment or sufficient financial means, along with health insurance. Once approved, you receive an eResidence card confirming your status.
From a property perspective, EU citizens can generally purchase without restriction, whether for a main residence or investment.
Non-EU nationals follow different rules depending on why they are moving to Malta.
To stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need a residence permit. There are different ways of doing this depending on your circumstances:
Each programme has its own eligibility criteria, including income thresholds, property requirements and minimum stay conditions.
For short stays, many nationalities can enter Malta visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under Schengen rules. Entry conditions differ by country, so it’s important to confirm the rules that apply to you before travelling.
While the basics of how to move to Malta apply broadly, the details can vary depending on your nationality. Tax treatment, pension transfers, visa requirements and healthcare access often differ from country to country.
To make things clearer, we’ve created dedicated relocation guides tailored to specific nationalities. These break down residency routes, property rules, tax considerations, and practical steps in more detail.
Once you understand your residency position, the next step in planning how to move to Malta is deciding where and how you’ll live. For most people, this comes down to one question: rent first, or buy straight away?
Both approaches are common. The right choice depends on how familiar you are with the island and how long you plan to stay.
Many international movers begin with a long-term rental. A standard long let usually runs for 12 months and gives you time to experience different areas before committing to a purchase.
Renting first can make sense if:
Most long lets require a one-month security deposit and a registered lease agreement. Utilities are typically paid separately through ARMS. Properties are often available fully furnished, making the transition easier.
Apartments in Sliema, St Julian’s, and Gżira are popular with professionals. Families often look toward Madliena, Ibragg, and Mellieħa. Gozo attracts those looking for a quieter pace.
If you are making a permanent move or see Malta as a long-term base, you might be planning to buy a property in Malta or Gozo.
The buying process is structured and transparent. After agreeing on a price, you’ll sign a Promise of Sale. A notary will carry out legal searches before the final contract is completed.
Buyers should budget for:
EU citizens can usually purchase without restriction. Non-EU buyers may require an Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit unless purchasing within a lifestyle development.
When researching how to move to Malta, you may come across the term Lifestyle Developments or Special Designated Area (SDA). These are specific residential developments approved by the Maltese government that provide greater flexibility for foreign buyers.
A Lifestyle Development is a designated development where non-Maltese nationals can purchase property under the same conditions as Maltese citizens. This means:
For buyers relocating from outside the EU, this often simplifies the process.
Lifestyle Developments are designed to bring together residential living with managed amenities. Many include:
Lifestyle developments are ideal for convenience and lock-up-and-leave living, which appeals to professionals, frequent travellers, and overseas buyers.
Well-known Lifestyle Developments include:
These locations combine strong rental demand, established infrastructure, and a managed residential environment.
Once you’ve explored how to move to Malta and identified the residency route that applies to you, the next step is planning the transition itself.
Relocation tends to run more smoothly when property decisions are considered early.
Many buyers and renters choose to visit Malta before committing. A short stay allows you to view multiple properties, compare areas, and understand distances in person. Because the island is compact, it’s possible to see a wide range of locations in just a few days.
Short lets are more flexible and often fully furnished. They can work well if you are in Malta for at least a few months while organising residency or exploring property options.
If you are relocating to Malta for employment, many people secure a rental property before finalising a purchase.
Even if you plan to purchase, a short-term or 12-month rental can act as a practical bridge. This gives you breathing space to complete residency formalities, open local accounts and adjust to the island before finalising a purchase.
If you’re moving with family, it helps to time your property search around school intake dates. If you’re relocating for work, check if your start date gives you enough time to arrange viewings before you arrive.
Browse the latest rental listings across Malta and Gozo to see what’s currently available.
EU citizens can live in Malta if they are employed, self-employed or financially self-sufficient. Non-EU nationals may apply under specific residence programmes, retirement routes, or remote work permits. The correct pathway depends on your circumstances.
Buying property in Malta does not automatically grant permanent residency. Property ownership may form part of certain residence programmes, but formal approval under the relevant scheme is still required.
Malta previously had a citizenship route through exceptional investor naturalisation (often referred to as MEIN). However, this framework is currently under review and subject to change.
It is important to understand that residence by investment programmes, like the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, are separate from citizenship. Residency schemes allow you to live in Malta but do not grant a Maltese passport.
Under the former citizenship framework, applicants were required to make significant financial contributions, maintain a qualifying property purchase or long-term rental and complete a period of residency before eligibility for naturalisation was assessed. Citizenship was never granted automatically simply because someone chose to purchase a property.
Given the current review of the programme, anyone considering this route should seek updated professional advice before making decisions based on citizenship expectations.
Malta previously had a citizenship by investment programme, often referred to as MEIN. This allowed certain applicants to apply for citizenship after meeting specific investment and residency conditions.
At the moment, the citizenship by investment programme is not operating in the same way as before. It is expected to be replaced or restructured, but the final details have not yet been confirmed.
It’s important to understand that residence and citizenship are different. Most people who move to Malta first apply for a residency permit and live in Malta for a period of time before considering any long-term citizenship options.
If you are exploring residence and citizenship routes, you should check the latest official updates before making decisions. The framework for citizenship by investment may change, and any new structure is still to be clarified.
This varies depending on whether you plan to rent or buy, your lifestyle and the residency route you apply under. You should budget for deposits, initial living expenses, legal fees if purchasing, and any residency application costs.
Malta is popular with retirees due to its climate, healthcare system, and English-speaking environment. There are specific residence routes designed for individuals with pension income or independent means.
EU citizens can access Malta’s public healthcare system if they meet the required conditions. Non-EU nationals are usually required to hold private health insurance as part of their residence application.
EU citizens can work in Malta without a work permit. Non-EU nationals typically require an approved work permit before starting employment. The employer usually supports this application.
Gozo is part of the Maltese Islands and follows the same residency rules. It has a quieter pace of life and often larger properties, while still being connected to mainland Malta by ferry.
With over 30 years of experience, Simon Mamo Real Estate is one of Malta’s established property agencies, helping both local and international clients to purchase or rent across Malta and Gozo. We understand how relocation timelines, residency planning and property decisions connect, whether you are starting with a rental or planning to buy straight away.
From arranging viewings and negotiating terms to guiding you through leases, permits and final contracts, our team provides clear, practical support at every stage. If you are planning your move and want experienced local guidance, we are here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Arrange a consultation, plan a viewing trip, or begin browsing properties with us across Malta and Gozo today.
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