For many expats, settling into a new country brings its share of challenges—especially when it comes to dealing with bureaucracy, residency rights, and finding a supportive community. Patricia Graham, a Scottish woman who has lived in Malta for 17 years, knows these struggles firsthand. While she secured her residency before Brexit, Patricia has since dedicated much of her time helping third-country nationals (TCNs) and other expats, particularly those facing challenges with Malta’s immigration system. As an active member of the Expats à Malte Facebook group and the founder of the TCN Alliance Malta, Patricia works tirelessly to offer guidance, share experiences, and speak up for those in need.
In this interview, she reflects on her personal journey, the systemic issues TCNs face, and her vision for improving the expat experience in Malta.
Life in Malta
1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to Malta 17 years ago?
I’m originally from Scotland, and my father and uncle were both in the military in Malta. I suppose there was always a connection to the island. I moved here in 2008 because I wanted a change from the UK. It just felt like the right decision, and I’ve never looked back.
2. How was your experience settling in Malta? What were some of the biggest challenges you
faced?
Initially, I loved how safe Malta felt—it wasn’t even a concern back then. But the bureaucracy was a shock. The systems for residency, work permits, and even basic utilities like electricity were incredibly complicated, and there was very little help for expats navigating these processes. That’s actually what pushed me toward activism—trying to change the system so others wouldn’t have to struggle as much.
3. Having lived here for so long, how do you think Malta has changed for expats over the years?
It’s changed drastically. The cost of living, especially rent, has skyrocketed. The immigration process has become more complicated, and unfortunately, there’s been an increase in hostility towards TCNs. Many locals believe foreigners are taking jobs or resources, but in reality, Malta depends heavily on its expat workforce.
The government’s policies and lack of
planning have made things worse for both locals and expats.
From Personal Struggles to Community Action
4. What sparked your fight for fair treatment in Malta?
It all started with an electricity bill dispute. When I first moved here, I received an outrageous bill. That’s when I discovered that foreigners with an ‘A’ on their residency card were automatically placed on a higher domestic rate instead of the residential one. I knew this wasn’t fair, so I decided to fight back. By 2013, after years of pushing, I managed to secure equal utility rates for expats.
5. What inspires you to continue supporting people in need?
Once I realized how broken the system was, I couldn’t ignore it. I witnessed so many people struggling—families separated, children without proper documentation, workers unfairly terminated. I felt that someone needed to step in, and I was determined to make a difference. On top of all this, I’m also the mother of four kids and a housewife, which makes balancing everything quite a challenge. But it’s because of my family that I feel so strongly about supporting others—ensuring they have the rights and resources they need to live here.
6. You are the founder of the Facebook group TCN Alliance Malta – can you explain the purpose
of the group?
Le TCN Alliance Malta Facebook group was created to help Third-Country Nationals understand their rights and avoid scams. When we started, one of our first actions was printing 2,000 flyers listing basic rights for TCNs and warning them about common scams. We distributed them at Identità Malta, JobsPlus, and other locations where TCNs seek help. The group isn’t just about complaints—it’s about action. We bring together people from different backgrounds, including community leaders who help share information in their communities.
The goal is to create real change by raising awareness, pushing for policy improvements, and supporting individuals facing difficulties.
Challenges Facing Third Country Nationals
7. What are the biggest challenges expats and TCNs face in Malta?
The biggest hurdles are residency issues and work permit complications. The system is overloaded—applications take months, renewals are delayed, and there’s little transparency. It makes life incredibly stressful for people just trying to settle and work here.
8. What happens to TCNs who lose their jobs?
One of the worst policies is the short grace period for TCNs who lose their jobs. They currently have just 10 days to find new employment before being forced to leave Malta. This is unrealistic and unfair.
I believe the grace period should be extended to at least three months.
9. How does the rental market affect expats and TCNs?
“Rent regulation is another big issue. Landlords often impose illegal clauses in contracts, demand excessive deposits, and sometimes refuse to return them. The Housing Authority is overwhelmed, and enforcement is weak, which leaves tenants with little protection.”
10. Have you observed discrimination against TCNs in Malta?
Unfortunately, yes. TCNs, particularly those from India and the Philippines, often face discrimination, especially in the form of obstacles that stem from their nationality. It’s heartbreaking because many of these workers are essential to Malta’s economy—taxi drivers, delivery workers, healthcare staff—but instead of appreciation, they are often met with hostility.
A Call for Systemic Change in Malta
11. What changes do you believe need to happen in Malta’s immigration system?
There needs to be urgent reform. Residency renewals shouldn’t take half a year, and work permit applications should be streamlined. The 10-day grace period for TCNs who lose their jobs needs to be extended. Additionally, children born to expat parents need better services, as there’s currently no dedicated department for them. It’s far too complicated for a child born in Malta to be recognized here.
We need more people to speak up. Change happens when we come together and demand better policies.
Perspectives d'avenir
Through her work, Patricia has helped countless expats and TCNs find solutions, fight injustices, and build a supportive community. She is now exploring new ways to amplify their voices, including launching a bi-weekly online discussion forum where people can share updates, raise concerns, and learn about their rights.
Patricia’s message to newcomers?
Be informed. Don’t accept unfair treatment. And remember—you’re not alone. There’s a community here that will support you.
As Malta continues to evolve, activists like Patricia remain essential in ensuring that everyone, regardless of nationality, is treated fairly and with dignity.
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