Living in Malta: What New Zealanders Need to Know

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The Remitly editorial team is a global group of writers and editors passionate about helping Kiwis thrive in New Zealand and beyond.

Key Highlights

Are you thinking about swapping New Zealand for life in Malta? Malta gives Kiwis something new and exciting. Here, you can find out what’s in store when you move to this sunny spot in Europe.

Malta has a Mediterranean climate. Summers get very hot, and winters are mild but wet.
The healthcare system is very good. It follows the British NHS way.
If you want to live and work in Malta, you will need a residence permit and maybe a work permit.
The cost of living is high in some places, mainly if you are looking for real estate in central areas.
Malta is known for its rich cultural heritage. There are strong Catholic traditions and lots of festivals.
The expat community is big and friendly. This helps new people settle in and feel at home.

Introduction

Are you from New Zealand and thinking about living in the Mediterranean? Malta could be the right place for you. This country is full of sunshine, great views, and has a lot of history. To move here, you need to take a few steps. You have to get a residence permit and learn about the local healthcare system. The cost of living, like finding a place to live, can be a worry, but many New Zealanders say life here is lively and it’s easy to travel around Europe. This guide will show you what you need to do for a smooth move to Malta and help you start your new life there.

Understanding Life in Malta for New Zealanders

Life in Malta moves at a different speed than in New Zealand. At first, it can seem like you are always on holiday. But soon, everyday life kicks in, and routine takes over. The country gives people a good quality of life. This is why a lot of expat families choose to move there. They enjoy the history, long coast, and sun that Malta has. EU nationals have an easier time moving, but if you are from New Zealand, you will need to get visas and other permits.

You will also find some things can be hard. Roads can be crowded. Public transport can be slow, and finding a place to rent is not easy. It is important to know both the good points and the bad before you move, so you can have the best start. There is strong social security, and the people in Malta create a close community. While there are people from many countries, local values can be quite old-fashioned, too.

Key Differences Between Malta and New Zealand

One big difference is scale. Malta is a small group of islands with many people living close together. Everything is near, but traffic can be a real problem on the main island. Unlike New Zealand, with lots of space to spread out, Malta has more towns and cities packed in by the coast. Most of the place looks urban. The public transport there is just buses. These can be late or not show up, which is really different from the good mix of bus, train, and ferry in New Zealand’s cities.

Another thing that stands out is Malta being in the European Union. This makes travel to other european countries easy. For many Kiwi travellers, that’s a big plus. The real estate market is not great for newcomers. It’s tough to get a good place, and rentals are costly. People say some landlords are hard to deal with, so renting is no fun for someone new.

Even though you may have to adjust, Malta is known as a safe place for people to live. The rates of violent crime are low. You will need to look out for petty theft, like pickpockets in busy spots. Still, most people feel secure. That’s a comfort for those thinking about moving there.

What Attracts Kiwis to Malta?

Many people from New Zealand go to Malta because it has the best mix of a laid-back Mediterranean way of life and deep European history. The draw of a comfortable life under sunny skies makes many want to be there. You can see the country’s rich cultural heritage everywhere, from old temples from long ago past to big cities that were built by the Knights of St. John.

Daily life in Malta feels different from other EU countries. People live in a close community and feel connected to their history. The public healthcare system is excellent, giving people peace of mind. For Kiwis, there are a few things that stand out about living in Malta:

Year-round sunshine: The good weather lets you spend lots of time outside at the beach, out sailing or just exploring.
Proximity to Europe: Malta is a great base to travel from if you want to see other parts of Europe.
Unique Culture: Living in Malta, you get a special blend you can’t get anywhere else with Italian, British, and Arabic influences.

All these good things—from practical help like the public healthcare system to everyday lifestyle benefits—make Malta a top pick for New Zealanders wanting a bit of an adventure in a new place.

Malta’s Culture and Everyday Lifestyle

The Maltese way of life is all about being part of the community, spending time with family, and holding on to faith. People in Malta keep old habits strong. Catholic feast days and village festivals, known as ‘festas’, are some of the biggest things to happen during the year. You will find that your days often include visits to local cafes, joining community events, and spending time outside.

Life in Malta slows down a lot. Daily costs, like what you pay for food, are not too high. But you might see that people there take their time and don’t rush. This caring way of living also shapes schools. Many Maltese children go to church schools, where old values are part of what they learn. We will talk more about Maltese traditions and how you can take part in community life next.

Local Traditions and Festivals

Malta has a lot of rich cultural heritage. You can see this most when people get together for local traditions and festivals. They say there is a church for every day in the year there. Every village holds a ‘festa’ for its patron saint. These parties have marching bands. There are fireworks and religious walks through the town. The whole place gets filled with fun and noise.

Religion is a big part of life in Malta. Almost all people, about 98%, are Catholic. This shows in their social values. For instance, you could not get a divorce in Malta until 2011. These strong traditions are important. If you move there from another place, you should try to respect this, even if it is not the same as what you know.

The Maltese language is a special part of their culture. It’s a Semitic language, and has parts from Italian and English. English is also an official language. In public schools, though, Maltese is needed. Many parents also choose church schools for their children. These church schools are a big part of the education system. They help keep old traditions alive.

Building a social network in Malta is quite easy, because the country has a big group of foreign residents. Many expat families have moved here, and this leads to a lot of groups and events. You can meet people from different countries at these gatherings. These networks help a lot. People share tips about things like dealing with paperwork or finding good places to eat.

The Maltese people are usually friendly, but becoming part of their close groups takes some time. Their strong community spirit often grows in families or with neighbours they have known for years. One good way to get to know them is to join local activities. For example, you could join a sports club to play bocci (a type of boules), or go along to village festivals. These outings are great for meeting your Maltese neighbours.

When you take part in these kinds of things, your everyday life in Malta gets better. Mixing with other expats or making local friends boosts your sense of community. This friendly way of life is one of the best parts of living here. It adds to the national development and makes new people feel welcome.

Climate and Environment

The Mediterranean climate is one of the top reasons people want to move to the island of Malta. You will find that summers are long, hot, and full of sun. It is good weather for swimming and lying out in the sun. Winters are mild, but they can be a bit damp. This weather helps most people enjoy a comfortable life spent outdoors for much of the year.

The climate shapes daily life in many ways. When you live on the main island, you do not just have to think about summer holidays. You learn to deal with the changes each season brings. Summer can get very hot. Winter is not very cold, but it can feel a bit chilly indoors because of the damp and because many older buildings do not have central heating. Up next, we will talk about more weather patterns people see here, and what outdoor activities you can do.

Weather Patterns Throughout the Year

Malta’s weather follows a predictable Mediterranean pattern. Summers are long, hot, and dry, with the average temperature often exceeding 30°C in July and August. This is the peak tourist season, and also when the island is at its busiest, which can put a strain on public transport.

Winters, from December to February, are mild and wet. While snow is unheard of, the dampness combined with a common lack of central heating in many homes can make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests. Expats with rheumatic conditions sometimes find the winter humidity challenging. Spring and autumn are arguably the most pleasant seasons, offering warm, sunny days perfect for exploring.

Despite the sometimes-congested roads and low crime rates, it’s the weather that truly defines the Maltese lifestyle. Here is a general idea of the seasonal temperatures:

Season	Months	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)
Spring	March – May	18 – 24	11 – 16
Summer	June – August	28 – 32	20 – 24
Autumn	September – November	28 – 20	22 – 14
Winter	December – February	16 – 17	10 – 11

Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions

The island of Malta has the kind of scenery that will take your breath away. There is good weather most of the time. People who love being outside will find a lot to like here. The main island and its smaller islands, Gozo and Comino, have a lot of things you can do for fun. There is the sea along the coast where you can go on all sorts of adventures. It does not matter if you are from the EU or one of the foreign nationals living here. The outdoor places are open for everyone.

Many people say diving is one of the best things to do. You get to see old ships from World War II under the sea and reefs full of colour and sea life. Sailing is another thing people enjoy on and around the island of Malta. You do not need to own a boat. You and others can join a course and learn to sail if you want. Gozo, in particular, is known for green hills and walks along the water. There are some cosy hiking and walking paths where you can spend your day.

If you want to do fun things on land, there is plenty for you to try. Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities:

Watersports: Along with diving and sailing, you can go kayaking, windsurfing, or try paddleboarding.
Golf and Tennis: The Marsa Sports Club is the go-to place for playing some golf or tennis.
Exploring Historical Sites: Malta is known for

Cost of Living in Malta

One thing many Kiwis notice when they move to Malta is the cost of living. Some things, like public transport, can be easy on the wallet. But others can catch you out. Real estate is a big part of this. Rent in central areas, such as Sliema and St. Julian’s, can cost a lot.

You have to keep an eye on your budget when you settle in. Think about what you will pay for things like housing, power, groceries, and also those small outings you want to have. Income tax rates might be good, but the cost of things in daily life can still be high. Many people find it hard to get a home that does not break the bank. Now, let’s talk a bit more about the cost of housing and what it takes to live day by day.

Housing and Rental Market Overview

The real estate market in Malta is notoriously competitive and can be a major headache for newcomers. Rent prices, especially in the popular central areas, have risen sharply in recent years. Landlords have a reputation for being difficult, and tenant protections are weak, so it’s common to lose your deposit regardless of how well you maintain the property.

For a single person, finding an affordable apartment can be a challenge. Many expats choose to live in areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s, or Gzira for their proximity to amenities and social life, but this comes at a premium. Some high-net-worth individuals may explore options like the golden visa programme, which involves significant real estate investment.

To give you an idea, here are some average monthly rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment. Keep in mind these can vary widely based on location and quality.

Location	Average Monthly Rent (EUR)
Central Areas (Sliema, St. Julian’s)	€800 – €1,200+
Northern/Southern Areas	€600 – €900
Gozo	€400 – €700

Groceries, Utilities, and Daily Expenses

Beyond your rent, the cost of living each day in Malta comes from things like groceries, utilities, and other daily needs. Food from the shops is usually good value, mainly when you shop at markets that sell fresh things. If you like to eat out, you can find meals that are cheap, like pastizzi (a local pastry), but you can also splash out on fancy places if you want.

Utility bills can take up a fair bit of your money, mostly the electricity for air conditioning in summer or heating in winter. Most flats do not have central heating, so many people use portable heaters, but these can be expensive to run. You also need to know that people do not drink tap water here, so you need to put money aside for bottled water.

The minimum wage here is not as high as in New Zealand, but a lot of people from overseas still feel they can have a good life in Malta. Below are some of the usual costs for a single person each month:

Utilities (electricity, water, internet): €100 – €200
Groceries for a single person: €200 – €300
Public transport pass: €26 (for unlimited travel)

The cost of living has its own ups and downs; you may find some things are not expensive, but other things like heating and water can pile up fast.

A Beginner’s Guide: How to Move and Settle in Malta

Moving from New Zealand to Malta takes some good planning. It is important to get all the right paperwork sorted. As you are not from the EU, your first job is to get the right visa and residence permit. If you want to work, you will need a work permit. This work permit is usually linked to a job offer you get in Malta.

When you reach Malta, you have to sign up for social security. By making social security contributions, you get access to public healthcare. It is a good idea to also have private health insurance at the start. This will help cover you if there are any gaps.

The next parts below will show you every step. These steps go from getting your papers ready to starting your new life in Malta.

What You’ll Need Before You Go (Visas, Documents, Finances)

Before you start packing, it’s important to sort out your paperwork. If you are a New Zealander, you can travel to the Schengen Area, like Malta, and stay for up to 90 days without a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you will need a residence permit. If you have a job offer, you can apply for a Single Permit. This permit lets you work and stay in the country at the same time.

To get your permit, you need to get the right documents ready. This helps avoid delays. Make sure you have all the certified copies you need, plus the originals. You will also need to do some financial planning. You must show that you can support yourself.

Here is a list of documents you usually need:

A valid passport that is good for at least six more months.
Proof that you have a place to live in Malta, like a rental agreement.
Health insurance that covers you in Malta.
Proof that you have enough money for your stay.
A job contract if you are applying for a Single Permit.

If you have a lot of savings, you might want to look into the Golden Visa. This lets you get residency by making a direct investment.

Finding Accommodation and Setting Up Utilities

Finding a place to live is one of the first things you must do when you come to Malta. The real estate market moves fast. It is better to see homes in person, not just sign up from overseas. A trusted real estate agent can help you find what you need and get through the market.

Be ready for high rent prices, especially if you want to live where many expats do. You usually have to pay one month’s rent as a deposit. You must also pay the first month’s rent up front. Always read your rental contract fully before you sign it. Remember, it can be hard to get your deposit back.

After you pick a place, you need to set up the basics. This means getting things like electricity, water, and internet. Your landlord or real estate agent will often help you with this. You also have to give your new address when you sort out your residence permit and medical insurance. Life in Malta gets a lot easier once you have all these in order.

Step-by-Step Guide to Relocating from New Zealand to Malta

Moving to a new country can feel like a big task. But if you break it down into steps, things get easier. If you are a Kiwi moving to Malta, there are a few main things you will need to do. First, you have to work through the legal stuff. Next, you sort out the travel and packing plans. At the end, you find ways to settle into the new way of life. One of the bigger roadblocks is getting your residence permit. You usually need a job offer to sort that out.

This guide will show you, step by step, what you need to do. You will learn how to get your paperwork sorted in New Zealand. There will be advice about what to do once you get to Malta, like how to register and ways to meet new people. This will help make your move to your new home in the Mediterranean much smoother.

Step 1: Preparing Your Paperwork and Legal Requirements

The first thing you should do is get all your legal documents ready. If you are a non-EU citizen, you cannot move to Malta without getting permission first. You need to apply for a visa or a residence permit, depending on whether you want to work, study, or retire there.

If you already have a job in Malta, your boss will usually help with your Single Permit. This permit lets you work and stay in Malta at the same time. You have to show a signed work contract, proof of your skills, and some other documents with your application. You must also have health insurance that will cover your needs while you apply and during your first days in Malta.

Before leaving New Zealand, make sure you have these things ready:

Valid Passport: Make sure it won’t run out soon.
Visa/Permit Application: Begin your application for a residence permit or a Single Permit.
Supporting Documents: You need papers like your birth certificate, proof of money, and proof you do not have a criminal record.

Once you have your permit and start paying social security contributions, you can use the public healthcare system in Malta.

Step 2: Organising Your Move and Shipping Belongings

Once you have started your legal documents, it’s time to think about how you will move all your things. You need to choose what you want to take and what you will leave in New Zealand. Because Malta is far away, the cost to ship things can be high. Many places on the main island already have furniture, so it might be a good idea to sell bigger things before you go.

If you want to ship your things, make sure to look into international moving companies early. Get quotes from a few and check what other people say about them, because not all of them are the same. Moving your stuff to the main island can sometimes take months, so you may be without a lot of your things for a while after you get there.

If you are one of the foreign nationals, handling your money is also very important. Let your bank in New Zealand know about your move. It is a good idea to open a bank account in Malta when you arrive, so you can manage money and local payments. There are some financial services that can help you send your money over. Doing this planning early will help make the move go much better for you.

Step 3: Arriving and Registering in Malta

Landing in Malta can be a big moment. But after you get there, you still have to do some paperwork. The most important thing to do first is to finish your residence permit application. For this, you need to go to the Identity Malta office. Take your passport, rental agreement, and any other papers they ask for.

Once your residence permit gets approved, they will give you a card. This card is your main ID in Malta. With this card, you can also get a social security number. This number is very important, because you need it to get a job and to use the public healthcare system. While you can use public healthcare, many people still get private health insurance. This gives better quality of life, because it helps cover more things that the basic healthcare system does not.

It is key to register the right way, as this lets you be there legally. It also helps if you ever want to get permanent residence. Doing this paperwork means you can use most services in Malta, and be a part of the country’s national development and way of life.

Step 4: Integrating into Expat and Local Communities

Once you finish the needed paperwork, the true experience of fitting into Maltese life starts. There is a big and friendly expat community in Malta. It is a great help for people new to the island. You can find many online groups and clubs for foreign residents. In these places, you can talk, get advice, share your story, or meet new friends.

For expat families, spending time with others like you can help a lot with fitting in, especially if you bring children. Still, it is good to get to know people in the local community as well. The Maltese way of life is warm and all about people. You can learn a few simple Maltese words, shop at shops run by local people, or join in village events. This helps show care for the culture and lets you meet others.

Your social life will grow when you give time to both groups. Having international friends and local connections means you get a strong, helpful mix of friends. This way, Malta will feel even more like home and you will be part of both your new world and the island’s way of life.

Work, Study, and Healthcare in Malta

Malta is a good place for work and study because it has an excellent healthcare system. If you are from New Zealand and want to work here, the first thing you need is a job offer. Once you get one, you can start to apply for a work permit. Some of the main parts of Malta’s economy are gaming, finance, and tourism. International students often choose the University of Malta when they come here for study.

All legal residents who pay into social security can use public healthcare. The care you get is high-quality medical care. In the sections below, you will find more about the job market and the education system. This will help you know what to expect when you move to Malta and start your new life.

Employment Opportunities and Work Permits

If you want to find work in Malta as a New Zealander, you must get a job offer before you can get a work permit. People from EU countries do not have to do this, but you will need a company to back your application. The job market is tough. Still, there is good chance for you if you look at sectors like financial services, iGaming, and IT.

If you have some years of experience in these areas, you can get a much better job. A lot of big global companies have offices in Malta. Most of the business is done in English, and this really helps Kiwis. You can use LinkedIn and other online tools to meet people and find chances to get hired.

Malta is known for its great work-life balance. The jobs might keep you quite busy, but the Mediterranean way of life means things slow down when you leave work. You can enjoy the sun, nice beaches, and many things to do outdoors, which gives you a way to relax when you finish your day.

Accessing Healthcare and Education Services

Malta is known for having a strong healthcare system. Many people say it is one of the country’s greatest strengths. The system follows the British NHS model. If you live in Malta and pay social security, you can get free public healthcare. The main public hospital is Mater Dei Hospital. The hospital is known for giving very good care. Many expats also get private health insurance. They do this so they can go to private hospitals, like St. James’ Hospital, and to skip any waiting lists.

If you have children, Malta gives you a choice in schools. You can send them to public schools, church schools, or private schools. One of the main problems for expats in public schools is that Maltese is a subject that students must learn. If you are staying for a short time or want your kids to study in English, you may want to look at international schools. These schools do cost money, though, because they have tuition fees.

If you are looking at higher education, the University of Malta is the main place to go. The university has many courses and programs you can choose from. Here is a short look at Malta’s education and healthcare options:

Public Healthcare: Free for people who are registered, and offers high-quality care.
Private Healthcare: Adds to public care and gives access to private hospitals.
Education: Choose from free public schools (with Maltese required), church schools, and private international schools.

Conclusion

To sum up, moving to Malta can be a good choice for people from New Zealand. The island has a special mix of culture, nice weather, and a friendly community. If you take part in local traditions and enjoy the lively way of life, you will start to feel at home quicker. There are things that can be hard, like finding a house and making sense of legal rules. But if you plan well and keep an open mind, you can build a good life on this lovely Mediterranean island. If you want to get started, reach out to us for a free chat and we can help guide you with your move to Malta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malta a good place for New Zealanders seeking work-life balance?

Yes, Malta can give you a good work-life balance. If you are not an EU national, you will need to get a work permit. This is one extra step. But the way people live on the island of Malta is slow and easy. The healthcare system is good. The weather is sunny. This all helps you have a comfortable life. You can spend your time having fun when you are not at work.

What are the main challenges New Zealanders face when settling in Malta?

The main challenges are getting through the paperwork for permits, handling the high cost of living, and keeping up with the fast real estate market. There is also the problem of public transport and traffic, which can be frustrating. These problems are different from what people face in other EU countries, so it can take time to get used to them.

It is easy to build a social network in Malta. There are many expat families and foreign residents here. You will find many groups and events that help you meet people. It can take more work to join in with local social life, but it is worth it. You will make your daily life better and start to feel part of the community.

Are there any important legal or cultural differences to be aware of?

Yes, you will need to have a residence permit if you want to stay in Malta for a long time. Malta is a place with a rich cultural heritage. People here follow strong Catholic traditions, and these show up in many social rules and ways. People speak English, but the Maltese language is a Semitic language. It is part of their national identity and you should respect that.