Digital Nomad’s Guide to Malta – A Mediterranean Remote Work Paradise

Why Choose Malta for Remote Work?

Malta’s strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean means warm weather year-round, a safe and friendly environment, and a vibrant expat community. With a growing number of coworking spaces and coliving options, Malta is rapidly becoming a remote work haven.

Best Cities & Towns for Remote Work in Malta

• Sliema: A bustling coastal town known for its modern amenities, lively cafés, and great coworking hubs.

• St. Julian's: Famous for its nightlife and social scene, ideal for those who want to mix work with fun.

• Valletta: The historic capital offers a sophisticated backdrop with art, culture, and inspiring views.

• Other Hidden Gems: Explore quieter towns like Mdina or Mellieha if you prefer a peaceful setting with a touch of authenticity.

Cost of Living in Malta

Malta is more affordable than major European hubs like London or Paris, but it’s not the cheapest digital nomad destination. Here’s what to expect:

• Accommodation: €800–€1,500/month for a one-bedroom apartment (cheaper outside Valletta and Sliema)

• Co-working Spaces: €150–€250/month

• Dining Out: €10–€15 for a casual meal, €30+ for a nice dinner

• Groceries: €40–€60 per week

• Public Transport: €26/month for a Tallinja card

Budget-conscious nomads can save money by renting in Gżira, Msida, or St. Paul’s Bay rather than pricier areas like Sliema or St. Julian’s.

Accommodation Options for Digital Nomads 🏡

• Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Booking.com) – Ideal for nomads staying a few weeks, but can be pricey.

• Co-living Spaces – Check out places like Inhawi Hostel or Evolve Coliving in Sliema.

• Long-Term Rentals – Look on Facebook groups like “Rent in Malta” or local websites like quicklets.com.mt for better deals.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re staying long-term, negotiate rental prices—especially in the off-season.

Getting Around Malta 🚍🚗

Public Transport

• Buses: The main mode of transport. A single ticket costs €2 (summer) / €1.50 (winter), valid for two hours. Monthly Tallinja cards are €26.

• Ferries: A great way to travel between Valletta, Sliema, and the Three Cities (€1.50 per trip).

Private Transport

• Bolt & eCabs: Affordable ride-sharing apps in Malta (€5–€15 per ride).

• Scooter Rentals (GO TO, Whizascoot): Starting at €0.21 per minute, great for short trips.

• Car Rental: Useful for exploring Gozo or remote beaches, starting at €20 per day.

💡 Tip: Malta’s roads can be chaotic—consider a scooter or ferry for easier travel!

Internet & Connectivity 📶

Wi-Fi in Malta is generally reliable, and speeds average 100 Mbps in cities. If you need mobile data, here are the best SIM card options:

• Airalo eSim: USD $15 for 5GB or $22.50 for 10GB (use the code VALENT1457 to get a discount) and you can activate your sim before arriving to the country.

• Epic: €20 for 40GB of data

• GO Mobile: €25 for 50GB

• Melita: €20 for 25GB

Pick up a SIM card at the airport or major supermarkets.

Money & ATMs in Malta 💳

• Currency: Euro (€)

• ATMs: Widely available but watch out for withdrawal fees (€3–€5 per transaction).

• Best Banks for Digital Nomads: Revolut & Wise are widely accepted.
  I recommend setting up an account with Wise (click here to set it up) for competitive exchange rates and hassle-free international payments. Another great option is Revolut (click here to create an account), which minimizes currency conversion fees.

Healthcare in Malta 🏥

Malta has a solid healthcare system, ranked among the best in Europe.

• Public Hospitals: Free for EU citizens with an EHIC card, but long wait times.

• Private Clinics: Faster service, consultations from €30–€60.

• Health Insurance: Non-EU citizens should have private insurance.
  Tip: Invest in travel or digital nomad insurance before you go. I always use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, which covers extended travel and global health needs (get your travel insurance here).

Top hospitals:

• Mater Dei Hospital (Public) – Malta’s main hospital

• St. James Hospital (Private) – Best for quick appointments

Visa & Digital Nomad Residency

Good news! Malta offers a Digital Nomad Visa for non-EU remote workers. Here’s what you need to apply:

• Proof of earning €2,700 per month

• Remote job contract

• Health insurance

• Background check

Application is via Residency Malta Agency, and processing takes about 30 days. EU citizens can stay visa-free for 90 days but need to register for residency if staying longer.

Living, Local Culture & Community

• Accommodation & Coliving:
  Choose from a range of options—from trendy coliving spaces in Sliema and St. Julian's to charming apartments in Valletta that combine comfort with style.

• Local Culture:
  Enjoy Maltese festivals, historical sites, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Don’t miss a traditional rabbit stew dinner or a sunset stroll along the promenade.

• Networking Opportunities:
  Join digital nomad meetups, local language exchanges, and community events organized through coworking spaces to make new friends and business connections.

Practical Tips for Digital Nomads in Malta

• Internet Backup:
  Although many places offer reliable WiFi, consider a local SIM card as a backup.

• Learn the Lingo:
  While English is widely spoken, picking up a few Maltese phrases can go a long way.

• Balance Work & Exploration:
  Set a structured work schedule, but leave plenty of time to wander the narrow streets of Valletta or take a boat trip around the islands.

Quick Checklist: Key Takeaways for Malta

• Top Destinations: Sliema, St. Julian's, Valletta, plus hidden gems like Mdina.

• Workspaces: Explore coworking hubs such as Malta Digital Hub and creative cafés.

• Local Culture: Enjoy Maltese cuisine, festivals, and historical landmarks.

• Practical Tips: Secure a local SIM card, learn a few Maltese phrases, and balance work with island exploration.

Final Thoughts: Is Malta Right for You?

If you’re a sun-loving digital nomad looking for a vibrant expat scene, fast Wi-Fi, and breathtaking views, Malta is a fantastic choice. While it’s not the cheapest destination, the quality of life, history, and work-friendly atmosphere make it a top pick for remote workers.

🚀 Ready to embrace the Maltese lifestyle? Pack your laptop and let Malta be your next remote work adventure!