At Malta Property, we help Filipino professionals, families, and expats find properties for rent in Malta that suit both their practical needs and the lifestyle they want to build on the islands.
If you’re planning on moving to Malta from the Philippines, chances are you’re looking for better career opportunities, higher salaries, and a better lifestyle for yourself or your family. Malta has become a popular destination for Filipinos because it gives you the chance to live and work in Europe while still feeling welcoming and familiar in many ways.
English is widely spoken, the weather stays warm for most of the year and daily life revolves around family, community and coastal living. Many Filipinos move to Malta for work, with some relocating alone at first before later bringing their families over.
With a growing Filipino community already living across Malta, settling into life on the islands often feels less overwhelming than many people expect.
Malta already has a well-established Filipino community, with almost 7,800 residents born in the Philippines recorded in Malta’s 2021 census. Many newcomers also connect through community groups like Kabayan Malta, Filipino church communities, and local social organisations while settling into life on the islands.
Many Filipinos move to Malta for job opportunities. Higher salaries, international work experience and the opportunity to build long-term financial stability continue to attract workers from across the Philippines.
English is one of Malta’s official languages and is used in workplaces, schools, hospitals, government offices and rental agreements. For many Filipinos, this makes daily life and settling into work far easier than in countries where learning a new language is necessary.
Family life is central to Maltese culture, with religion, community events and social gatherings regularly taking place across the islands. Malta’s strong Catholic influence also feels familiar to many Filipino families relocating abroad for the first time.
Malta’s warm climate, seaside towns and outdoor lifestyle appeal to many Filipinos already used to coastal living. Beaches, waterfront cafés, promenades and village communities create a relaxed lifestyle that balances work opportunities with Mediterranean living.
When planning your move to Malta from the Philippines, one of the first things to understand is the difference between residency and citizenship. Although the terms are often used interchangeably online, they are very different legally and financially.
For most Filipinos relocating to Malta, the process usually begins with a Malta residence permit connected to work, remote employment or retirement. Citizenship is normally something considered much later after spending several years legally living in Malta.
Becoming a Maltese citizen is a separate process from obtaining residency in Malta. Purchasing a home or relocating to the islands doesn’t automatically lead to citizenship, even if you buy one of the many properties for sale in Malta.
Citizenship is usually something people consider after living in Malta for many years. It involves meeting strict government requirements around residency, time spent living in Malta and integration into Maltese life. Some people may later qualify through permanent residency or investment-based programmes, but for most Filipinos moving to Malta, the first step is securing the right residence permit and settling into life on the islands.
Residency gives you the legal right to live in Malta beyond the normal tourist stay limits. Filipino passport holders can travel within the Schengen Area for short visits, but anyone planning to live and work in Malta long-term will need an approved residence permit or visa route.
The right residency option depends on your situation. Some people relocate for employment, others for retirement, remote work or long-term family plans. Once you have residency, you can legally live in Malta, access local services and either rent or buy property.
Many Filipinos initially start with properties for rent in Malta while adjusting to work, commuting, and different neighbourhoods before later deciding whether to purchase a home.
There are several ways to move to Malta legally, depending on your employment status, income source and long-term plans:
For many Filipinos, moving to Malta starts with a job offer from a Maltese employer. In most cases, the employer helps coordinate the work permit and Malta residence permit application before relocation.
If you work remotely for a company outside Malta, the Nomad Residence Permit may allow you to live in Malta while continuing your overseas employment or online business.
This route appeals to remote professionals, freelancers, consultants, and digital entrepreneurs who want to experience living in Europe without changing employers. Applicants must meet minimum income requirements and show that their income is earned outside Malta.
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme is designed for individuals and families looking for long-term residency security within the European Union.
Unlike employment permits, this Malta PR Visa route is based on financial eligibility and investment requirements. It is commonly used by people wanting long-term residency in Malta, Schengen travel access, and the option to establish a stable European base.
Malta is also attracting more international retirees looking for warm weather, English-speaking services, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Retirement residency routes are normally linked to pension income or proof of financial independence and are best suited to people planning to settle in Malta permanently rather than relocate for employment.
Moving to another country is a big step, especially when you’re balancing work opportunities, family responsibilities, finances and long-term plans all at once. Most Filipinos who relocate to Malta successfully take the process one stage at a time, starting with securing employment or residency before gradually settling into everyday life on the islands.
If possible, spending time in Malta before relocating fully can make the transition much easier. Although Malta is a small country, different areas can feel very different depending on your lifestyle, work location, and budget.
An initial visit gives you the chance to:
Choosing the right area is one of the most important parts of relocating. Many Filipino professionals initially choose long let properties for rent in Malta before committing to buying a home later on.
Once your accommodation and employment plans are organised, the next stage is preparing your residency paperwork.
Depending on your Malta residence permit route, you may need:
Application requirements vary depending on if you’re applying through employment, remote work, retirement or permanent residency routes.
After arriving in Malta, most newcomers focus on organising the practicalities like opening a bank account, arranging internet and mobile services, registering utilities and understanding local tax and healthcare systems.
For many Filipinos, another important part of settling in is building a social network through work, church communities, Filipino groups, or local organisations already established across Malta.
Malta and Gozo’s rental market moves quickly, especially in popular expat areas, so many Filipinos begin searching for accommodation before arriving on the islands. Renting first is often the easiest way to settle into work, understand different neighbourhoods, and adjust to everyday life before considering buying property.
Some Filipinos choose short lets when they first move to Malta, especially if they are relocating alone for work or planning for family members to join them later. Staying in a short-term rental first gives you time to explore different areas, attend property viewings in person, organise residency paperwork, understand commuting routes, and settle into your new job before committing to a long-term home.
Most Filipinos planning to stay in Malta long-term eventually move into long lets properties, which usually involve rental agreements of at least 12 months.
Professionals working in business districts often choose areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s, Gżira, Msida, and Ta’ Xbiex because they are close to offices, restaurants, transport links, and the seafront.
Families and people looking for quieter surroundings often prefer residential areas like Naxxar, Mosta, Mellieħa, Attard and St. Paul’s Bay, where homes are usually larger and daily life moves at a slower pace.
To secure properties for rent in Malta, landlords will usually request:
Most long-term residential leases in Malta must be registered with the Housing Authority.
The type of property you choose will usually depend on your budget, family size, work location, and long-term plans in Malta.
Popular options include:
At Malta Property, we help Filipino professionals, families, and expats find properties for rent in Malta that suit both their practical needs and the lifestyle they want to build on the islands.
Malta’s property market attracts international buyers looking for long-term stability, investment potential and a Mediterranean lifestyle within the European Union. For many Filipinos planning to stay in Malta long term, buying property eventually becomes an alternative to renting, especially after settling into work and becoming familiar with different areas across the islands.
Filipino citizens can buy property in Malta. As a non-EU buyer, you will usually need an Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit when purchasing outside certain approved developments, although the process is well established and commonly handled with legal guidance from your notary and estate agent.
Some international buyers choose homes within Malta’s Special Designated Areas (SDAs), also known as lifestyle developments. These developments make it easier for non-EU buyers to purchase property and are popular among expats relocating to Malta.
Properties within these developments include shared amenities like pools, gyms, concierge services, underground parking and additional security.
Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment close to work, a family home near schools and residential areas, or a long-term investment within a lifestyle development, Malta Property can help you find the right fit for your future in Malta.
Sliema and St. Julian’s are popular with Filipino professionals working in hospitality, finance, customer support and international companies. These coastal areas are busy, modern, and well-connected, with apartments close to offices, restaurants, shopping centres, and the seafront.
Gżira and Msida are central locations popular with both professionals and students. They are near several business hubs while often being slightly more affordable than neighbouring Sliema and St. Julian’s. These areas are also close to hospitals, universities, and marina areas.
Mellieħa attracts people looking for a quieter lifestyle close to beaches and open space. Located in northern Malta, the area is known for sea views, family homes and a slower pace of life compared to busier central areas.
In some ways, it reminds people of parts of Ballito, Somerset West, or quieter coastal areas around the Western Cape where lifestyle and outdoor living are a big part of daily life.
St. Paul’s Bay and Bugibba are popular among expats looking for more affordable rental options near the coast. The area has a large international community, plenty of restaurants and shops and a relaxed seaside lifestyle that appeals to many newcomers.
Ta’ Xbiex and Pietà are popular with professionals working near marinas, embassies, hospitals and central business areas. These locations have convenient access to Valletta, Gżira and Msida while providing a slightly quieter residential feel. Apartments here are especially attractive to professionals looking for shorter commutes and easy transport connections.
Many Filipinos relocate to Malta for work in healthcare, caregiving, hospitality, customer support, finance, construction, maritime services, and tourism. Workplaces in Malta are generally international, with employees from many different countries working together in English-speaking environments.
Because Malta is small, industries can feel closely connected and networking is important.
Healthcare in Malta is generally modern and accessible, with both public and private options available. Many Filipinos choose private health insurance for shorter waiting times and more flexibility.
One adjustment for some newcomers is Malta’s smaller healthcare system. Hospitals and clinics are fewer than in major Philippine cities, but services are usually easy to access because distances across the island are short.
Many Filipinos move to Malta alone initially for work before later bringing their spouse and children once they feel financially stable and settled into daily life. Malta’s English-speaking environment, smaller size and family-oriented culture make it attractive for long-term relocation.
Compared to the Philippines, schools in Malta are often smaller, commutes are shorter, and the overall pace of family life can feel less hectic, especially outside busy central areas.
Education in Malta is compulsory between the ages of 5 and 16 and follows a structure that will feel fairly familiar to Filipino families:
Families in Malta usually choose between three main school systems:
State schools are government-funded and free for residents. Lessons are taught in both Maltese and English, although English is widely used in many subjects.
Church schools are also free to attend and are very popular with both Maltese and international families. Because demand is high, entry is often decided through a lottery system. Many Filipino families are naturally drawn to church schools because of Malta’s strong Catholic traditions.
Private and international schools charge annual fees and are especially popular among expat families. Most teach entirely in English and often follow British curriculums with internationally recognised qualifications.
One noticeable difference from the Philippines is the school calendar. In Malta, the academic year usually starts in late September and finishes in late June. Schools also close during:
Compared to many schools in the Philippines, the school day in Malta is usually shorter, especially for younger children. Many schools operate roughly between 8am and 2pm, although some private and international schools offer extended hours, after-school activities, sports programmes, and childcare services for working parents.
One practical adjustment for Filipinos moving to Malta is driving. Unlike the Philippines, where vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, Malta drives on the left-hand side. This can take some time to get used to, especially at roundabouts and busy junctions.
Because Malta is much smaller geographically, commuting times are usually shorter than in cities like Manila or Cebu, although traffic can still become busy in central areas during peak hours.
Public buses are widely used across the islands, while many residents also rely on taxis, ride-sharing apps, or private cars, depending on where they live and work.
Filipino nationals can generally use their Philippine driving licence for a limited period after arriving in Malta. However, once you become officially resident long-term, you may eventually need to apply for a Maltese driving licence, depending on your residency status and how long you remain in the country.
For many Filipinos, salaries in Malta are significantly higher than equivalent roles back home, particularly in international industries and specialised sectors.
However, rent, groceries, utilities and imported goods also cost more than in the Philippines, especially in expat-heavy coastal locations. Many newcomers find that balancing higher earnings with higher living costs becomes easier after settling into a routine and choosing the right area to live.
Expense | Mosta (avg) | Quezon City (avg) |
3-bed apartment rent (monthly) | ₱127,506.01 | ₱41,250 |
Utilities (monthly) | ₱7,668.40 | ₱10,379.55 |
Cinema Ticket | ₱721.73 | ₱450 |
Basket of food: Milk, bread, eggs, cheese, tomatoes, potatoes, bananas and a bottle of wine. | ₱1581.12 | ₱1487.58 |
Mid-range dinner for two | ₱5,773.86 | ₱1,200 |
International Primary school fees (annual) | ₱793,905.33 | ₱157,500 |
Figures are based on data from Numbeo in May 2026. Actual costs vary depending on currency movement and personal spending habits.
For many Filipinos moving to Malta, financial planning is not only about settling into a new country. It also involves supporting family back home, sending regular remittances, managing savings across two countries and understanding how taxes work once you become a resident in Malta.
Malta taxes residents on income earned in Malta, particularly employment income linked to local work permits and residence permits. If you’re employed by a Maltese company, income tax and social security contributions are usually deducted directly from your salary.
Many Filipinos continue sending money home regularly after relocating. In general, personal remittances sent to family members in the Philippines are not taxed as income in the Philippines when they are considered family support payments rather than business income.
Questions around double taxation are common, especially for people with overseas savings, pensions, investments, rental income or remote work arrangements. Malta has an extensive network of double taxation agreements designed to help prevent the same income being taxed twice across different countries.
Because everyone’s situation is different, many Filipinos relocating long-term choose to speak with a tax adviser once they arrive in Malta.
Opening a Maltese bank account, setting up utilities, arranging mobile services, and organising international money transfers is usually straightforward once you have a local address and residency documentation in place.
At the moment, there are no direct flights between the Philippines and Malta. Most journeys involve one or two stopovers through cities like Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, or Abu Dhabi. Travel times are usually between 16 and 24 hours depending on the route and connection times.
Many Filipinos living in Malta regularly send remittances back to the Philippines using international banks, money transfer services, and online transfer platforms. International transfers are widely available and commonly used by expats living in Malta.
English is one of Malta’s official languages and is used in workplaces, schools, healthcare, government services and daily life. Many Filipinos settle into work and everyday routines without needing to speak Maltese.
Processing times vary depending on your residency route, employment situation and application type. Work-based Malta residence permits can sometimes take several weeks or months, depending on documentation and approvals.
Malta has a well-established Filipino community, particularly the North and around the Northern Harbour. Many newcomers connect through church groups, community organisations, sports events and Filipino social groups like Kabayan Malta.
There are Filipino and Asian grocery shops in Malta where you can buy familiar ingredients, snacks, sauces, noodles, frozen products, and household items from the Philippines. Many Filipinos living in Malta shop in areas around Gżira, Msida, St. Julian’s and central Malta, where international food stores are more common.
You’ll also find some Asian supermarkets importing Filipino food and brands, making it easier to cook familiar meals and stay connected to food from home after relocating.
Our team understands that moving to Malta from the Philippines is about finding the right area for your work, lifestyle, commute, family plans, and long-term goals. From busy coastal locations close to international employers to quieter residential areas suited to families, we help you find a home that fits the way you want to live.
With local market knowledge, a wide range of rental and sales listings, and experience helping international clients relocate to Malta, Malta Property can support you through every stage of your move.
Explore the latest properties for rent in Malta and properties for sale in Malta, or speak with our team for personalised guidance on choosing the right area for your lifestyle, work location, and long-term plans.
© Copyright 2025 Malta Property – All rights reserved · Privacy Policy | Disclaimer
