Relocate to Malta from the UK

If you plan to remain in Malta beyond 90 days, you will need a residency permit issued by Identità (formerly Identity Malta). Your route depends on your circumstances, such as work, study, family reunification or investment.

The MPRP is one of the most popular routes for UK nationals who want long-term stability without the need to renew permits annually but it does not give one the right to work.

Key requirements include:

• Property: Rent a qualifying property at €14,000 or more per year, or purchase one for at least €375,000. You must hold the property for five years.
• Government contribution: €60,000 if renting, €30,000 if buying.
• Administrative fee: A one-time, non-refundable €50,000.
• Donation: €2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO.
• Financial stability: Evidence of €500,000 in assets, including €150,000 in financial assets.
• Dependants: €10,000 per additional dependant.
• Timeframe: Most applications are processed within several months, though this depends on due diligence and the completeness of your documentation.
• Benefits: Permanent residency, the ability to include family members and visa-free travel across the Schengen area for short stays.
• Many other residency programmes are available, so look at the full list here to see which one is perfect for you.

Once you have secured residency, you gain access to a way of living that many UK movers value immediately. Malta’s compact scale makes daily life efficient. High-speed digital infrastructure supports remote work. English is used in government, education and business, which removes many of the barriers typically associated with moving abroad.

You can expect:

• Walkable towns with cafés, pharmacies, grocery shops and services within easy reach
• Well-connected public transport and short commutes
• A strong sense of community, particularly in areas with established expat networks
• A cultural calendar that runs year-round, ranging from classical music to contemporary art
• An outdoor-friendly lifestyle thanks to Malta’s temperate climate

The longer you live here, the more the islands will reveal their rhythm and newcomers often appreciate how quickly they settle compared to other European destinations.

Relocating from the UK to Malta typically involves several layers of expense.

Upfront costs may include:

• Flights and temporary accommodation
• Shipping of belongings, usually £2,000 and up depending on volume
• Rental deposits (normally one month’s rent)
• Residency application fees and legal support

Living costs: Malta is generally more affordable than the UK in areas like dining, transport and property, although prices vary by locality. Expect one-bedroom apartments in sought-after areas to range from €1,100 to €1,800 monthly, with significantly lower prices in Gozo and outlying regions.

Bringing pets: Malta is pet-friendly but has strict regulations. Dogs, cats and ferrets entering from the UK must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and have an EU pet passport or valid health certificate. Quarantine is rarely required if all paperwork is in order. Early planning is essential to avoid delays.

Driving in Malta: UK driving licences remain valid for short stays (up to 12 months). For longer-term residents, exchanging your UK licence for a Maltese one is straightforward and usually free of charge. Malta drives on the left and road signs are in English, making the transition easy for Brits.

Timeframes: From planning your move to obtaining residency, the process can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on the pathway you choose.

Malta has an admired healthcare system with high standards across both public and private services. UK nationals benefit from a Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement for essential care during short stays. If relocating long term, you can access the public system through one of the following:

Short stays (up to one month): Present your UK passport for free essential care.

Longer stays: Obtain a Reciprocal Health Care Certificate or register an S1 form with the Maltese Entitlement Unit for full access to Malta’s National Health Service, including non-emergency and specialist care.

Private healthcare: Many residents opt for private insurance to reduce waiting times and access a broader range of specialists. Private GP consultations start from €15, and health insurance plans are widely available.

When UK nationals relocate to Malta, understanding the local tax system is crucial, as it differs significantly from the UK’s framework. One key feature that attracts many expats is Malta’s non-domiciled (non-dom) tax status, which offers substantial tax advantages.

What is Non-Dom Status in Malta?
Non-domiciled status applies to individuals who reside in Malta but do not have their “domicile” there – meaning Malta is not their permanent home for legal purposes. This is particularly relevant for many UK nationals who move for work, retirement, or lifestyle reasons but maintain strong ties elsewhere.

How Does Non-Dom Taxation Work?

• Remittance Basis Taxation: Non-dom residents in Malta are taxed on their Malta-source income and any foreign income they remit (bring) into Malta. Foreign income that remains offshore and is not remitted to Malta is not taxed.
• No Tax on Foreign Capital Gains: Gains made outside Malta are generally not subject to tax, even if remitted.
• Attractive for Retirees and Remote Workers: This system allows UK nationals with foreign pensions, investments, or business income to benefit from Malta’s favourable tax regime.

Becoming a Tax Resident in Malta
You become a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in Malta during a calendar year or have your primary place of residence and economic interests in Malta. Residency status is separate from domicile and residency permits.

Other Tax Considerations

• Personal Income Tax Rates: Malta uses a progressive tax rate system, with rates ranging from 0% to 35% on income earned within Malta.
• Double Taxation Treaty: Malta and the UK have a double taxation agreement, preventing you from being taxed twice on the same income.
• Capital Gains Tax: Gains from property sales in Malta may be taxed, but rules vary depending on the type of property and holding period.
• Wealth and Inheritance Taxes: Malta does not impose general wealth or inheritance taxes, which is often beneficial to expatriates.

Practical Advice

• It’s essential to maintain proper records and seek expert advice on structuring your finances to maximise tax efficiency.
• Ensure you understand the difference between tax residency and residency permits to remain compliant.
• We can advise you on finding the best professional tax advisors in Malta who can assist with planning and filing requirements to make the most of your non-dom status.

Frank Salt Real Estate provides an end-to-end service designed specifically for UK nationals. Our holistic circle of services covers everything from choosing the right property whether you buy or rent to ongoing management long after you have moved in or taken ownership. Our support includes:

• Client services that will coordinate your entire experience with us.
• Short-lets to support for inspection trips and transitional stays.
• Long lets and tenancy management for families and professionals seeking stability.
• Buying and selling with market valuations and negotiation support.
• Property management and lettings administration for investment/absent owners.
• Commercial property sales and rentals designed for business people and investors.
• Relocation services including viewing tours, moving logistics and temporary housing solutions.
• Introductions to accredited immigration lawyers and licensed agents for residency applications.
• Assistance with tax and legal advisers to structure personal tax affairs and corporate needs.
• Home Interiors and Renovations Service
• Utilities and connectivity setup, interior planning and home setup services to make properties move-in ready. Working with us reduces the guesswork and protects you from common pitfalls and ensures your relocation is seamless.

Relocating to Malta from the UK requires planning, clear information and an understanding of what to expect when you start the process. Yet once you secure your place on the islands, you gain access to a stable, English-speaking base in the heart of Europe, along with a lifestyle that is practical and connected. With our expert guidance, your move becomes not only manageable but even enjoyable. Our comprehensive services will ensure that your transition is smooth and hassle free.