As 2025 begins, expats living in Malta should stay informed about the latest updates affecting their finances, residency, and daily life. This guide gives you a clear and straightforward overview of the changes and opportunities Malta offers.
Adapting to Life in Malta
Living in Malta as an expat provides access to a vibrant economy, excellent healthcare, and a unique cultural heritage. Before diving into specific updates, it’s essential to ensure you have the correct residency documentation, understand Malta’s tax policies, and explore your options for healthcare and insurance.
New Tax Rates for 2025
The Maltese government has revised income tax brackets for 2025, resulting in reduced tax rates for many residents. Expats should review the updated tax brackets to understand how their tax liability may change.
Social Security Contributions
Social security contribution rates remain unchanged for 2025. Expats should verify their contributions to access essential benefits such as healthcare, pensions, and unemployment assistance. For those working under local employment contracts, contributions are typically deducted directly by employers. Self-employed individuals should ensure they are registered and making the required payments through the Commissioner for Revenue.
Housing Regulation Updates
Malta has introduced new housing regulations aimed at improving living standards and ensuring fair rental practices. These updates include stricter guidelines for rental agreements and enhanced tenant protections, particularly for those renting in the private sector. Expats are advised to familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and secure housing arrangements.
Property Incentives
The Maltese government continues to offer financial incentives to encourage property investments. These include:
First-Time Buyer Grants: First-time property buyers can claim up to €15,000 in Malta and up to €40,000 in Gozo. To qualify, applicants must not have owned property previously and meet other eligibility criteria.
Grants for Urban Conservation Areas (UCA): Expats purchasing properties in UCAs or those vacant for over seven years can benefit from significant tax exemptions.
Visa & Residency Updates
Keeping your residence permit up-to-date is crucial to enjoying Malta’s benefits. Whether you’re holding an EU Blue Card for highly skilled professionals, a Long-Term Residence Permit granting indefinite stay, or the Single Work Permit for streamlined employment and residency, timely renewals are essential. Additionally, the Key Employee Initiative (KEI) offers expedited processing for eligible professionals, making Malta even more attractive for global talent.
Healthcare and Insurance
Healthcare in Malta is of high quality, but eligibility for free public healthcare depends on your social security contributions. Expats who do not qualify should obtain private health insurance that meets local standards. Private insurance can provide broader coverage and faster access to medical services, particularly for specialized treatments.
Family Reunification
Expats can bring close family members to Malta through the family reunification process, whether they are EU or non-EU citizens. Applications must be submitted online and require proof of sufficient income, appropriate housing, and comprehensive health insurance to ensure family members are well-supported while living in Malta.
Increased Family Benefits in 2025
Families in Malta are benefiting from increased children allowance announced earlier for 2025 of €250 annual increase per child. Marriage grant is now up to €1,000 per couple, and the in-work benefit is enhanced, with couples receiving up to €1,289 annually and individuals receiving €667. These initiatives aim to ease the cost of living for families, helping them access quality childcare and manage their financial responsibilities more effectively. Expats with families should check their eligibility and apply for their benefits.
New Opportunities
Malta offers several opportunities for career and personal growth in 2025, including start-up grants for entrepreneurs, funding for environmental projects, and government-sponsored training programs to enhance skills and improve employability.
Final Thoughts
This is a great time for new beginnings in Malta. Take advantage of the fresh opportunities, whether in business or personal growth. If you’re considering new business ventures or need advice on tax matters, Expatax is here to support you every step of the way.
English 
Danish 
French 
German