Malta has often ranked well on the lists of foreign nationals looking to relocate, find employment, or retire. There is no more ideal location for those in search of the sun than Malta, with its relaxed and carefree way of life. Every year, Malta draws tens of thousands of visitors from all over the globe who choose to settle permanently on the stunning archipelago.

Here is a list of some of the most crucial recommendations to take into account before coming to Malta, regardless of whether you are considering it for employment, business, or retirement:

Important documentation to bring

Malta is renowned for demanding documentation as proof. Even if you believe anything is unimportant or irrelevant, it is best to bring as much as you can. Bring certified copies of any leases, rental agreements, letters of recommendation, medical records, bank and credit card statements, utility bills in your name, work references, birth, marriage, or divorce certificates, or other paperwork, as well as any other required papers. In this scenario, having too much documentation is preferable to having too little.

Public transport

Since there are no trains in Malta, you must purchase a bus card once you have decided where you will stay. This card will allow you to board the public buses that travel throughout the entire nation. The bus card can have any amount added to it and is personalized. All buses in Malta and Gozo accept it for travel. Additionally, you will benefit from lower prices than when you purchase single-trip tickets on the bus.

Be open to experiencing the local life

You won’t have any issues speaking with the locals because more than 80% of people in Malta speak English. Therefore, speaking English will make it simple for you to become immersed in Maltese culture and discover more about the people there.

Accommodation in Malta

Foreign nationals migrating to Malta have an abundance of options for both rental homes and homes for sale. You can select among hotels of various grades, as well as guesthouses, farmhouses, villas, and flats with self-catering options. You can even rent a timeshare or stay with a host family if you want to save money on lodging.

Malta’s work scene

Finding and applying for a job before you move will make things easier, but if that’s not possible, ask around in social media groups while you’re still abroad. After being accepted, applying for a job requires a lot of paperwork but is a simple procedure overall. The two industries in Malta that produce the most jobs are hospitality and gaming, but you need also to consider the construction sector and its suppliers. A job contract will give you credibility when doing anything, including renting a house and opening a bank account.

You will be required to submit an application for a residency and/or permission under the guidelines established by ID Malta and JobsPlus, the authorized state affiliates.

Get a Maltese SSN and residence card when you arrive

If you have a job that pays well and is covered by a work contract, you will pay into social security and national insurance, which is a crucial step in obtaining benefits like free healthcare. In Malta, a residence card is necessary for everything.

After you are here, open a bank account

You will require a lease, your ID card, paystubs, proof of NI, and more to start a local account. If you already have a foreign bank account, you are essentially set. If not, you can apply for Wise or Revolut in advance, which will make things easier.