Malta offers attractive jobs especially in IT and eCommerce. Gorgeous beaches, Mediterranean lifestyle and far away from the rain. Is Malta a good alternative to Germany? How is working in Malta?
This is Malta today
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is a charming archipelago consisting of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and thriving economy, Malta has become an attractive destination for individuals seeking new opportunities, including employment.
Malta boasts a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, making it an inviting place to live and work. Its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic beaches attract visitors from around the world.
Malta’s unique location and rich history have shaped its diverse cultural heritage. Influences from Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and the Knights of St. John have left an indelible mark on the island’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The Maltese population is known for its warm hospitality and friendly nature, creating a welcoming environment for residents and expatriates alike.
Over the past decades, Malta has experienced significant economic growth, becoming a hub for various industries such as finance, gaming, tourism, and information technology. The country’s strategic location and business-friendly environment have attracted multinational companies, startups, and entrepreneurs, offering a wide range of employment opportunities.
English and Maltese are the official languages of Malta, with English widely spoken throughout the island. This linguistic advantage makes it easier for English-speaking individuals to integrate into the Maltese society and navigate daily life, including the workplace.
In addition to its professional prospects, Malta offers a vibrant lifestyle with a plethora of leisure activities. From exploring historical sites and museums to enjoying water sports, hiking, and vibrant nightlife, there is always something for everyone to enjoy during their free time.
Work Culture in Malta
The work culture in Malta is a blend of Mediterranean charm and British influence, reflecting the country’s history and geographical location. It’s characterized by a relaxed yet professional atmosphere, where relationships and personal interactions are highly valued.
Maltese people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, and this extends into the workplace. Building strong relationships with colleagues is considered important, and there’s often a strong sense of camaraderie among team members. This is facilitated by regular social events and gatherings, which are a common feature of Maltese workplaces.
The workday in Malta typically starts at 8:30 am and ends at 5:30 pm, with a break for lunch. However, flexible working hours are becoming increasingly common, particularly in sectors such as IT and digital services. Many companies are recognizing the benefits of allowing employees to have a better work-life balance, and are implementing policies to support this.
Despite the relaxed atmosphere, professionalism is highly valued in the Maltese work culture. Punctuality is important, and meetings are usually well-structured and efficient. English is widely spoken in the workplace, making it easy for international professionals to integrate.
Maltese labor laws are in line with European Union standards, ensuring a high level of protection for workers. The standard working week is 40 hours, and employees are entitled to at least 24 days of annual leave, in addition to public holidays. There are also provisions for maternity and paternity leave, and workers have the right to join trade unions.
However, it’s worth noting that salaries in Malta are generally lower than in many other European countries. This is offset to some extent by the lower cost of living, but it’s something that prospective workers should be aware of.
Overall, the work culture in Malta is one that values relationships, work-life balance, and professionalism. It offers a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle and European working standards, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking a new challenge.
Trending Businesses in Malta
In recent years, Malta has emerged as a vibrant hub for various industries, attracting entrepreneurs and businesses from around the globe. The island’s strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, coupled with its robust economy and business-friendly environment, has made it an attractive destination for trending businesses.
One of the most prominent sectors experiencing significant growth in Malta is the Information Technology (IT) industry. The country has become a hotspot for tech startups, particularly in the areas of software development, digital marketing, and e-commerce. The government’s supportive policies, including tax incentives and grants for innovation, have played a crucial role in fostering this growth.
Another trending business sector in Malta is iGaming. Malta was one of the first EU countries to regulate online gaming, and today it hosts several top-tier gaming companies. The iGaming industry in Malta is thriving, thanks to the country’s advanced infrastructure, skilled workforce, and regulatory framework that balances business interests with player protection.
The financial services sector is also on the rise in Malta. The island has become a preferred destination for businesses offering services such as banking, insurance, and investment funds. The Maltese government’s efforts to establish the country as a reputable international financial center, along with its robust regulatory framework, have attracted numerous financial institutions to set up operations on the island.
In addition to these sectors, Malta is witnessing growth in areas like blockchain technology and cryptocurrency. The country’s forward-thinking approach towards these emerging technologies has earned it the nickname “Blockchain Island”. Malta has enacted legislation to regulate blockchain and cryptocurrency businesses, making it an attractive location for companies operating in this space.
The renewable energy sector is another area where Malta is experiencing significant growth. With its abundant sunshine, the country is ideally suited for solar energy production. Several companies are capitalizing on this potential, investing in solar farms and other renewable energy projects.
Facts and figures
- Malta has a population of around 500,000 people.
- The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English.
- Malta has a GDP per capita of around 30,000 euros.
- The cost of living in Malta is higher than the EU average.
- Malta has a strong digital and tech sector, attracting many expats.
- The majority of foreign workers in Malta come from EU countries.
Questions and answers about living and working in Malta
Is life in Malta cheap?
Living in Malta is not cheaper compared to Germany, but rather between the prices of major German cities and German regions. Restaurant prices can be relatively high, but there are cheap alternatives.
How do I find an apartment in Malta?
For starters, it is best to rent through AirBnB or Booking.com and look for permanent accommodation at your leisure. There are many affordable local and international brokers who can help with the search. The capital Valletta is without question the most expensive city on the islands, as it also has the most employers and the best infrastructure. Another disadvantage of Valletta is that it is not easy to find a parking space.
Do you make a lot in Malta?
The average salary for a full-time job in Malta is approximately 2,000 euros gross per month. This corresponds to an hourly wage of 14 euros gross per hour. With such an income, you can’t make big jumps. After all, the prices for rents are similar to those in Germany and the cost of living rarely differs. There are, of course, significantly better-paid positions, especially in the IT sector. But here, too, you should not necessarily expect internationally competitive payments. Also, be prepared for the fact that the tax burden in Malta can be even higher than in Germany.
Is it easy to get to Malta?
The typical transportation options are airplanes and ferries. Flights can be very cheap if booked in time – but if you need to travel urgently and on short notice, this can be quite expensive. With the ferry you can also bring your car to Malta, for example from Italy.
Can I work and live in Malta as EU citizen?
Yes, as a EU citizen you can travel freely to Malta like any other EU citizen without restrictions and take up gainful employment here (free movement of workers). You can also start your own business in Malta.
What kind of schools are there in Malta?
There are three types of schools in Malta: State schools (teach only in English in Malta and Gozo), private schools (English, Maltese and Italian) and Church Schools (mostly English and Maltese).u003cbru003eThere are many schools in Malta. They are mostly divided into elementary school, secondary school, junior high school and high school, similar to Germany. There are more than 20 international schools in Malta that use English as the language of instruction. The public schools are free, the private ones cost fees. The high schools often have a strong international student focus and offer several academic degrees equivalent to the German Abitur. An IB (International Baccalaureate) degree is also available. Many children go to preschool from the age of about two. These private institutions are very popular and cost little. They are roughly equivalent to German kindergarten.
Is it safe in Malta?
Yes, Malta has a high level of internal security.
Cost of Living in Malta
Malta, a small archipelago located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and a warm, sunny climate. However, when it comes to the cost of living, there are several factors to consider.
The cost of living in Malta is relatively moderate compared to other European countries. The overall cost can vary depending on the lifestyle one chooses to lead, the location within the country, and personal spending habits.
Housing is one of the most significant expenses in Malta. The cost can vary greatly depending on the location and type of accommodation. In the more popular and touristic areas such as Sliema and St. Julian’s, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from €700 to €1200 per month. However, in less touristic areas, the rent can be significantly lower, ranging from €500 to €800 for a similar apartment.
Apartments in Malta are not cheap to rent or buy. However, the price range for apartments in Malta is very wide. You can get an apartment in a small town for as little as 600 euros a month, but often you have to spend at least 1,000 euros to find something reasonable.
Groceries in Malta are reasonably priced, with local markets offering a wide variety of fresh produce at affordable prices. A monthly budget for groceries for a single person might range from €150 to €200. Dining out, on the other hand, can be more expensive, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around €15 to €20 per person.
Public transportation in Malta is quite affordable, with a single journey ticket costing €2. However, many residents choose to use private vehicles due to the convenience they offer. The cost of owning a car in Malta can be quite high, with petrol prices being above the European average.
Healthcare in Malta is of a high standard and is free for residents at the point of delivery. However, private healthcare can be costly, and it is advisable to have health insurance to cover these costs.
Education in Malta is free at the point of delivery for residents, from primary school to university level. However, private schools and universities charge fees, which can be quite high.
Of course, it depends on which place you choose and how the apartment or house is equipped. The price depends a lot on whether you rent a small apartment on the north coast of Malta or a high-end detached house in the center of Valletta.
Overall, you can expect prices about the same as for Berlin. The reason for this is an overall limited market, the island location and the comparatively high demand for housing. There are also a number of apartments and houses that are not yet finished. Therefore, the demand for rental housing is very high and prices still remain quite high.
Working in Malta: How to find a job
How to find a suitable job in Malta
Research in search engines.
First, you should probably use a search engine and search for the keywords jobs in Malta on Google or Bing, for example. Pay particular attention to the language requirements.
Check the state employment service
In addition, you can search for suitable jobs at the Public Employment Service Job Center u0022Jobsplusu0022 in Malta or at a local Public Employment Service Job Center. different locations can be found on the Jobsplus website) an.
Access the EURES job portal
Another possibility is the European job portal EURES: Here you can find job offers for Malta and the whole of Europe. You can search here by industry, profession and region. There is also the option to search for resumes, which employers can use to find job seekers.
View local magazines and newspapers
You can also find job advertisements in trade magazines and daily newspapers in Malta. So if you’re ever in town for a vacation or orientation to the country: check out the magazines at the kiosks or supermarkets.
Contact commercial employment agencies
You can also find a number of private employment agencies in Malta. Search for them on the web and see what they have to offer.
Look directly on company websites
Malta is not very big, so you can easily go to Bing Maps or Google Maps and click through the streets or search for keywords.
Education for Children in Malta
In case you plan to move with your family to Malta you might be interested in the education in Malta. School education is compulsory here from the age of 5 to 16 and is structured in a way that is quite similar to the system in the UK. The education system is divided into three stages: primary education, secondary education, and post-secondary education.
Primary education starts at the age of 5 and continues until the age of 11. During this stage, children are introduced to basic subjects such as English, Maltese, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies. The aim of primary education is to develop children’s basic literacy and numeracy skills, as well as their physical, emotional, and social growth.
Secondary education begins at the age of 11 and continues until the age of 16. This stage is divided into two cycles: the Junior Lyceum cycle and the Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) cycle. The Junior Lyceum cycle covers the first three years of secondary education, while the SEC cycle covers the last two years. During the SEC cycle, students sit for their O-level examinations in various subjects.
Post-secondary education is optional and is aimed at students who wish to further their studies. This stage includes sixth form, vocational education, and tertiary education. Sixth form is a two-year course that prepares students for their A-level examinations, which are necessary for university entrance. Vocational education provides practical training in various fields such as hospitality, health and social care, and information technology.
In Malta, there are three types of schools: state schools, church schools, and independent schools. State schools are funded by the government and provide free education. Church schools are run by different religious orders and also offer free education, although a voluntary donation is usually requested. Independent schools are privately run and charge fees.
English is the medium of instruction in all state and most independent schools, making it easy for English-speaking expatriates. However, Maltese is also a compulsory subject in all schools, and it’s beneficial for children to have a basic understanding of the language.
In addition to the regular curriculum, schools in Malta also offer a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and various clubs. These activities provide children with opportunities to develop their talents and interests, as well as to socialize with their peers.
Working in Malta: Our conclusion
Life in Malta is very pleasant for many. If you can relax after your work directly on the nearby beach and eat healthy Mediterranean food afterwards, then that is pure quality of life. The Maltese are very friendly and open people. Many people who have moved here report that the Maltese are very helpful and often speak very good English.
If you want to have a great career and/or make a lot of money, then Malta may not be for you. Here, the work-life balance is more important. Many appreciate that you get European security and standards together with Mediterranean weather.
You can find out whether Malta appeals to you by taking a short vacation there. You can also use this time to introduce yourself to some employers and see what your market value is there and what conditions are offered to you.
Living and Working in Malta: Aptitude Test
To find out if living and working in Malta is a good fit for you, we have prepared a short aptitude test. Answer the questions honestly and discover if this Mediterranean gem could be your next home.
