Moving to Malta in 2022 part 2 – Part one is here.

Overview of Maltese Cultures and Traditions

Maltese culture is heavily influenced by its Catholic faith. Many of the country’s traditions are tied to religious holidays and ceremonies. Maltese people are known for their hospitality, and they take great pride in their culture and heritage.

There are many small villages on the island where residents still maintain traditional lifestyles. In fact, Maltese cuisine is based on Mediterranean flavors and features a lot of seafood. However, the country’s most famous dish is rabbit stew, which is prepared in various ways. Without further ado, below are the 5 things to know about Maltese culture and tradition.

Maltese Culture Is Heavily Influenced By Its Catholic Faith

Malta is a predominantly Catholic country, and the Church plays a central role in Maltese society. Many of the country’s traditions are tied to religious holidays and ceremonies. For example, on Good Friday, Catholics commemorate Jesus’ crucifixion by participating in processions called “The Way of the Cross.”

Maltese people are also known for their piety and devotion to Mary, the mother of Jesus. Many shrines are dedicated to her throughout the country, and Catholics often pray to her for help.

Maltese People Are Known For Their Hospitality

Maltese people are renowned for their warm hospitality. They always go out of their way to make guests feel welcome in their homes and restaurants. In fact, the Maltese word for “guest” is “frendi,” which also means “friend.”

Maltese people take great pride in their culture and heritage. They are also very proud of their country’s independence, which they won after a long struggle with the British. Maltese people generally like foreigners, and many will be happy to tell you about themselves or show you around if given a chance.

The Island Of Malta Is Home To Many Small Villages

Malta is a small country, and most of its population lives in villages. There are more than 300 villages on the island, and each one has its own unique culture and traditions. In fact, Maltese cuisine is based on Mediterranean flavors and features a lot of seafood.

However, the country’s most famous dish is rabbit stew, which is prepared in various ways. Villagers typically lead traditional lifestyles, and many still farm their food or raise livestock. Villages are also home to various religious and cultural ceremonies, such as Festa.

The Village Festa Is an Important Tradition in Malta

The village Festa is a religious festival that celebrates the patron saint of each village. These festivals are very popular, and they draw thousands of people from around the country and beyond. They include processions, fireworks displays, concerts, and carnivals.

Each year, there are over 100 village Festas in Malta and Gozo. The festivals typically occur during the summer months, although some are held in September to coincide with the harvest season.

Maltese People Are Great Dancers

Maltese people love to dance, and they are very good at it. In fact, the Maltese folk dance is considered one of the most difficult dances in the world. It involves intricate steps and complex formations. Maltese people typically dance at weddings, religious ceremonies, and other social gatherings.

They often perform traditional dances, such as the Sword Dance and the Għana. However, they also enjoy dancing to modern music.

Malta Is a Bilingual Country

Malta is a bilingual country, and Maltese and English are the two official languages. Malta’s Constitution guarantees the right of Maltese citizens to use their mother tongue in all spheres of life. English is the language of business and government, while Maltese is used for everyday conversation and in the media. Some people speak both languages fluently, while others use only one language.

Malta Is Known For Turnaround Bad Luck

Maltese people are known for their belief in superstition and their ability to turn around bad luck. They often perform rituals or wear talismans to protect themselves from evil spirits.  One of the most popular Maltese superstitions is the Evil Eye. This curse is said to be cast by someone who covets something belonging to another person.

To ward off the Evil Eye, Maltese people wear a blue eye charm known as “mettina tal-għajn.” They also use other amulets and perform rituals to protect them from evil spirits. Maltese people believe in many myths and legends passed down from generation to generation.

Malta Is a Secular Country

Malta is a secular country, and the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion. The majority of Maltese people are Catholics, but there is also a large Protestant population. Other religious groups include Muslims, Jews, Hindus, and Sikhs.

There is no state religion in Malta, and all religions are treated equally. The Catholic Church has considerable influence on public life, however, and many schools are run by the church or religious orders.

7 Best Location for Expats in Malta

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast. It’s a nation known for historic sites related to a succession of rulers, including the Romans, Moors, Knights of St. John, French, and British.

It has numerous fortresses, megalithic temples, and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground complex of caves and passages. The main island is Malta which is where the capital Valletta is located. The country has two other inhabited islands, Gozo and Comino, both of which are much smaller than Malta.

In this section, we will walk you through the best location for expats in this country. Without much talk, check the following to know the best cities, towns, or villages suitable for expats in Malta.

1.    Valletta

Valletta is the capital city of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s located in the central-eastern portion of the island, with around 6315 people. The town was named after Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Valette, who laid its foundation stone in 1566.

It has been described as one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. It has numerous tourist attractions, such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral, built by the Knights Hospitaller, Grandmaster’s Palace, National Museum of Archaeology, and many others.

Valletta is very safe for expats because it is considered to be one of the safest capitals in Europe. Expats can get around using buses and water taxis and on foot. The city is small, so it’s easy to walk from place to place.

2.    Sliema

Sliema is a town located on the northeast coast of Malta. It’s a popular tourist destination and a major commercial center with over 10,000 people. The town has beautiful beaches such as St. Thomas Bay, Tigne Point, Exiles beach, etc.

The city also offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Sliema is also a great place for expats because it’s very safe and many English-speaking people live here. Sliema is well connected to Valletta by bus, so it’s easy to get around. The town is also home to the Malta Stock Exchange, which means it’s a great place for expats to find work.

3.    Birkirkara

Birkirkara is a town located in the central part of Malta with an estimated population of 21,775 people. It’s one of the oldest towns on the island, and it has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The city was founded by Phoenician settlers from Tyre in Lebanon around 700 BC and named it B’ir ir-Kura, which means “well of the vineyard.”

It’s known for its beautiful churches, such as St Helen’s Basilica (built-in 1493), St John’s Co-Cathedral, and others. Birkirkara is a great place to live if you’re looking for something close to the city. The town is also well connected to other parts of Malta by bus.

4.    Bugibba

Bugibba is a town located on the north coast of Malta with an estimated population of around 27,000 people. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malta, and it has many hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, etc. The city was founded by Phoenicians around 700 BC and later became part of the Roman Empire.

Bugibba is a great place for expats looking for a fun and lively city to live in. The town is also very safe, and it’s easy to get around using buses. Expats will also find many English-speaking people living here.

5.    Nadur

Nadur is known as the 2nd largest city in Gozo. It’s a town located on the north coast of Malta with an estimated population of around 14,000 people.

Nadur is a great place for expats looking for something more relaxed and less touristy than other parts of Malta, such as Valletta or Sliema. The city also has many beaches such as Ramla Bay, Xlendi Bay, and others. Nadur is also well connected to other parts of Malta by bus.

6.    Marsaskala

Marsaskala is a town located on the south coast of Malta with an estimated population of around 9298 people. It’s known for its beautiful beaches such as Bezzina Bay, Rinella Bay, and others. The city also offers many restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs popular among expats in Malta.

Marsaskala is a great place for expats looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun. The town is also well connected to other parts of Malta by bus.

Conclusion

Moving to Malta is always a good decision, but it’s better to understand what moving to this country entails. As said above, there are many things to do and enjoy. That’s why you need to follow this platform for more information.

Moving to Malta in 2022 part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

In the next few years, Malta will be transitioning from a nation largely dependent on foreign industry to becoming more self-sufficient. This transition will be no small part of many new immigrants who wish to live and work in Malta.

Part of this transition also includes changing the culture of employment across Europe. Historically, working conditions have been poor in Malta, and this has caused thousands of Maltese citizens to flee the island nation. This time though, it is different: Maltese and foreigners will be afforded nearly identical benefits and rights as other employees under the law.

The other big change in Europe is a move from part-time to full-time work. This has been happening slowly across the continent, but Malta will be enforcing nearly immediately. All workers in Malta are to be allowed at least 35 hours per week, with any additional hours being negotiable between the employer and employee.

Malta’s move towards a more European employment style will help increase both the native population and incoming immigrants, who are likely to have a much healthier work-life balance. This shift is already being felt among Malta’s immigrant community.

Today, we have compiled this article to explain why moving to Malta in 2022. That being said, you’ll understand some of the interesting facts about this country. With the pros and cons and the types of visas available for expat, we’re sure you’ll understand what moving to Malta seems like. Continue reading to know better!

Interesting Facts about Moving To Malta as an Expat

Moving abroad is a dream for many people. The ability to explore a new culture and start a new life in a foreign country is one of the most exciting things someone can do. One such place you might want to think about moving to is Malta. There are several reasons why it may be an excellent idea, especially if you enjoy living near the beach.

Moving to Malta

Moving to a new country is hard and daunting, especially when it’s in a place like Europe, which has a rich cultural history and diverse population. However, if you’re moving to Malta — the tiny island nation at the center of the Mediterranean Sea — your life will be that much easier because English is their official language.

Maltese Lifestyle

Although Malta is a small country, it has a long multicultural history. This means that their food isn’t the standard pizza and pasta you might expect from other Italian-influenced countries in Europe. In fact, many major cities have large populations of Arab people who brought with them their own unique cuisine.

Work Opportunities

If you’re planning on moving to Malta, you might wonder if any jobs will be available that suit your skillset and qualifications. Luckily the unemployment rate is relatively low, but even if it weren’t, there are lots of opportunities for work in hospitality management! Many of the hotels throughout the country are looking for managers from all over Europe.

Balancing a Career and a Personal Life

One of the best parts about moving to Malta is that it’s a great place to raise a family! The country has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, which makes a living there feel quite safe. Furthermore, the weather isn’t too hot, so you don’t have to bake your kids in the sun during the long summer months.

The Language Barrier

Because Malta has close ties to Great Britain, there are quite a few British expats that live within their borders. However, not everyone is lucky enough to speak English fluently. If you’re planning on living in Malta, you should probably brush up on your Italian or Maltese.

Sporty People

Maltese culture really values physical activity. In fact, many of the people you meet are likely to be into running or sports in general! If you’re looking for an active community to move to Malta, this will definitely help. The island itself is quite small, so people generally commute by bike or car, so being healthy makes sense.

Malta is a Great Place to Relax

Lastly, Malta is a great place to move to because there isn’t a lot of stress in this country! In fact, many people get so relaxed that they forget their deadlines and appointments. Although you’ll want to hold yourself accountable for work purposes, it’s nice knowing that if you want to lounge around for a day, no one will scold you.

Currency

Maltese currency is the Lira, which is divided into 100 cents. English coins have the same value as in any other country, but Maltese coins include one, two, and five Liras, with a symbol representing the denomination on each coin.

Climate & Seasonal Clothing

Maltese climate is the Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. In the summertime, when the heat peaks, it is common for Maltese people to go to the beach in the afternoon or enjoy a picnic lunch in nearby parks. Most people living in Malta wear lightweight clothing during the summer months.

Architecture

Malta is part of an archipelago between Sicily and the North African Coast. The architecture in Malta reflects this unique location with a rich history that dates back to Phoenician, Carthaginian, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman/Crusader, and Italian influences.

Food & Beverages

Maltese cuisine is a blend of the cuisines from the different cultures that inhabited this small island. Local Maltese dishes include pastizzi, a traditional ricotta cheese pastry; skordali, a garlic sauce served with bread; and more. The country has also absorbed elements of British cuisine with fish and chips, meat-based soups and stews, etc.

Types of Visas Available For Expats in Malta

In order to enter Malta, a foreigner needs to apply for a visa. There are several types of visas available for those who wish to travel or live in the Maltese islands.

Visa Requirements

There is a minimum age requirement for some visa categories. Applicants below 18 years old cannot apply for a residence permit if on their own and must be accompanied by a person who is 18 years old and above. Applicants below 21 years old must also be accompanied by their parents if they are applying for a residence permit as a parent’s dependent.

Visas

The most common types of visas available to those interested in traveling or living in Malta are:

Temporary Residence Permit

This type of visa is for those wishing to live in the Maltese islands for a period that exceeds six months up to five years. There are several types of temporary residence permits available depending on the purpose of the visit, e.g., employment, self-employment, family member dependent.

Employment Permit

Applicants with an employment permit can work for their sponsor in the Maltese islands. Sponsorship is given by an employer who has obtained prior approval from the Department of Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs (DCEA). Applicants with an employment visa may not be paid for any work done without a Work Permit.

Self-Employment Permit

This visa type is meant for those who want to set up and run a business in the Maltese islands. Applicants with this type of visa must submit their application through an approved self-employed business person that has already established themselves in the Maltese islands.

Retiree Visa types

This type of visa is designed for individuals that wish to retire in the Maltese islands. Applicants for this type of visa must meet certain health and financial requirements. More so, applicants must also prove that they have a guaranteed and stable income which is sufficient to cover their living expenses in Malta.

Student Visa

Applicants with this type of visa are allowed to come over to study at any educational institution or level (pre-university, undergraduate, postgraduate) approved by the Ministry of Education and Employment. In addition, students are allowed to do internships or clinical practice in hospitals.

Short Stay Visas

Applicants with a short stay visa can enter Malta for a very short period, e.g., a day, a week, or any specific duration not exceeding three months per six-month period. These types of visas are meant for those who come to Malta on a mission that will not exceed the duration of the said visa.

Transit visa

Applicants with this type of visa may enter Malta to transit or stay while waiting for onward transportation to another country or location. Applicants with a transit visa are also allowed to leave Malta within the timeframe of their authorized stay.