Are you considering living in Malta on a permanent basis? The Maltese archipelago, located in the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, is known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and ideal climate. With so much to offer those looking to live abroad permanently, it’s no wonder why many are considering this option. But before you make the big move overseas, there are a few things you should know about living in Malta permanently – from visa requirements to job opportunities.
More than 3 months? You need a residence permit
Whether you’re an EU citizen or not, if your intention is to live in Malta for more than three months then you will need to apply for a residence permit. For non-EU citizens this means applying for a long stay visa at the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Once approved by the Department of Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs (DCEA), applicants can expect their permit to be valid for up to one year with renewable extensions available every five years thereafter.
As part of the application process however, all non-EU nationals must prove they have sufficient financial means as well as health insurance coverage during their stay in Malta.
You may be eligible for tax incentives
Once officially registered as an expat resident of Malta, individuals may also be eligible for certain tax incentives depending on their particular circumstances and residency status. Currently any foreign national who moves his/her tax residence from another jurisdiction into Malta may qualify for Tax Residency Status (TRS).
This entitles them to pay income taxes on locally sourced income only – meaning any income generated outside of Malta is exempt from taxation provided that such income does not have its source within the local economy itself – whilst enjoying other attractive benefits such as reduced rates on pensions and capital gains taxes.
It’s important that anyone interested in obtaining TRS contact a qualified accountant prior to starting the application process however since there are various conditions which need to be met first before approval can be granted by local authorities.
Working in Malta
When it comes down finding work while living in Malta permanently though unfortunately it isn’t always easy due to competition amongst locals seeking employment coupled with limited job openings available especially within certain sectors like IT or finance where jobs tend fill up quickly once posted online or via recruitment agencies operating on behalf of employers across Europe seeking skilled candidates who meet specific criteria necessary for positions being offered at firms based here too.
Nonetheless ever since 2006 when English was officially declared as one official language spoken throughout all areas under its jurisdiction; demand has risen significantly amongst employers wanting staff capable of speaking both languages fluently giving expats better chances when searching job postings around town even if restrictions put place due Covid-19 pandemic still remain leading more people prefer working remotely instead where possible either via freelancing websites like Upwork/Fiverr/Guru etc..
Social Life
In terms social life meanwhile; whether looking hang out friends or establish stronger ties within community ultimately depends largely upon how active individual willing become moment arriving island either joining groups networking events held regularly city centre making most opportunities they offer integrating faster while having chance network wider range contacts thus allowing settle quicker after settling down house rented near location chosen beforehand (i recommend Sliema Sea Point area if want mix luxury urban lifestyle close proximity beachside attractions).
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Malta?
Lastly although cost living differs substantially depending upon personal needs; average monthly expenses excluding rent/utility bills typically range €1 000 – €2 000 euro per month including food shopping groceries insurance public transport travels etc… Goods services tend cheaper compared countries nearby yet prices fluctuate seasonally summertime usually sees spike activity tourists visiting island thus affecting prices all types items sold around shops supermarkets malls found major cities Valletta St Julian’s Paceville Bugibba Qawra etc…
Can I get residency in Malta if I buy a house?
If you want to live in Malta as a resident and purchase property here, your first step should be to apply for an e-Residence card. This card will allow you to prove your identity when applying for other services such as opening bank accounts or registering with utilities providers – all important steps when moving abroad!
Once you have your e-Residence card, the next step is to apply for an Individual Investor Programme (IIP) visa. This visa allows foreign nationals who invest in real estate worth at least €350,000 (or €270,000 if the property was purchased before 2020) to obtain permanent residency rights in the country. You must also make sure that any money used to purchase real estate comes from legally sourced funds by providing evidence of this source through certified documents such as tax returns or bank statements.
In addition to purchasing real estate worth at least €350,000 (or €270,000 pre-2020), applicants need to satisfy other conditions related specifically to Maltese residents: They must maintain health insurance throughout their stay; rent or buy accommodation suitable for themselves and any dependents; register with local authorities such as immigration offices; pay taxes on income generated from sources within Malta; and keep up with any financial obligations associated with owning a property such as utility bills or loan repayments. Finally, applicants will be required to attend an interview where they demonstrate their knowledge of Maltese culture by answering questions about its history and customs.
Once these criteria have been met and approved by the relevant authorities , successful applicants will receive confirmation that they are eligible for permanent residency status in Malta – meaning they can live there indefinitely without having to renew visas every few years like some other countries require. As long as all conditions continue being satisfied each year prior renewal applications , this status can remain valid indefinitely . Furthermore , permanent residency holders may also eventually become eligible for citizenship after five years depending on whether they meet additional criteria set out by Maltese law.
In conclusion, it is possible to obtain residency in Malta if one purchases a house ( either pre – 2020 valued at 270k Euros or post – 2020 valued at 350k Euros ). However, obtaining said residence requires meeting certain eligibility criteria along with abiding by local laws regarding taxes, health insurance etc. It’s therefore essential that potential buyers seek professional advice before committing themselves financially so that everything goes smoothly during their application process.
Is Malta good for expats?
Malta is renowned for its sense of hospitality and friendliness towards foreigners – something which many expat applicants find particularly appealing. The welcoming atmosphere is bolstered by the fact that English is widely spoken across the island, making it easier to settle in without too much difficulty. Additionally, due to its reputation as a tax haven, living costs tend to be lower than they would be elsewhere – making it an attractive proposition financially speaking.
The country’s location also provides plenty of advantages; lying between Sicily and northern Africa within easy reach of Europe’s major cities means that it’s easy to take advantage of all that this continent has to offer – whether you want to explore ancient ruins or modern metropolises like Rome or Barcelona! There are also excellent transport links with the rest of Europe thanks not only to air travel but also ferry connections from Valetta harbour. This makes travelling around both within Malta itself and further afield incredibly convenient – so if you need some time away from Maltese life then you can easily escape on short trips elsewhere!
There’s also no shortage of activities available on-island should you wish; thanks largely due to its size (just 122 sq mi!) getting around is relatively straightforward meaning that nothing is out of reach when exploring Malta. From hiking trails up Dingli Cliffs or Mdina Bastion Wall through bustling markets, chic restaurants and traditional pubs – all offering delicious local delicacies – there really is something here for everyone whatever your taste may be! If the outdoors isn’t your thing then fear not – cultural events such as concerts, theatre performances or exhibitions take place regularly throughout year too! You will never be stuck for things do during your stay in this beautiful land!
Conclusion
All considered moving live malta permanently can turn out great decision anyone seek new exciting experience different culture life especially since offers opportunity learn second language improve knowledge related business matters easily contactable through internet using various platforms Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, FaceTime along multiple ways accessing global markets thanks stable infrastructure reliable telecommunications systems present island .
However ultimate success depends upon person determination commitment follow plan set ideas reality without giving up half way through – but rest assured rewards will definitely outweigh efforts taken those decide give shot!
Originally posted 2022-12-08 11:47:10.