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Relocating to Malta

Relocating to Malta: Tax Planning, Residency & Relocation

Malta combines a Mediterranean climate, EU membership, and an attractive tax environment - ideal for families, remote workers, and retirees.

A new country, a different tax system, a new daily life. Moving to Malta is more than just a tax decision - it changes how you live and work. That's exactly why you need a partner who understands both: the numbers and the reality of living here. DW&P has been guiding international expats since 2013 - from initial tax analysis and coordinating with authorities to ongoing support in Malta.

300+

Days of sunshine per year

~3 h

Flight time from the UK

15 %

MRP Flat Tax

Malta Retirement Programme

since 2004

EU member

Your Situation

Three paths to Malta - which one fits you?

Whether you're moving as a family, a remote worker, or for retirement - every situation brings its own tax and organizational questions. Choose your profile.

Families

Families

  • Straightforward residence permits for non-EU nationals
  • International schools from approx. EUR 600/month per child
  • Non-Dom status: foreign capital gains remain tax-free
  • Leaving the UK: plan around the Temporary Non-Residence rule early
Remote Workers

Remote Workers

  • Fiber-optic internet, co-working spaces, CET time zone
  • Mind the 183-day rule and permanent establishment risks
  • Social security coordination under the UK-EU protocol
  • Advisory for both employees and employers
Retirees

Retirees

  • Malta Retirement Programme: 15% flat tax
  • Minimum tax of EUR 15,000 annually
  • Foreign pensions often taxable in Malta under Double Tax Treaties
  • Solid healthcare system and active expat community
Msida Marina, Malta

Location Comparison

Malta vs. Portugal vs. Spain vs. Dubai for Expats

Where to relocate? A direct comparison of the most popular destinations for international expats.

JurisdictionTax RegimeEU MemberCost of LivingLanguage
MaltaNon-Dom / MRP (stable)YesModerateEnglish (official language)
PortugalNHR (reformed / phased out)YesModeratePortuguese
SpainBeckham Law (limited)YesModerate to highSpanish
Dubai0% income taxNoHighArabic / English

EU Membership

Freedom of movement, EU health insurance, and full recognition of qualifications within the EU.

English as an Official Language

No language courses needed. Authorities, schools, and daily life all function in English.

Short Flights to the UK and Europe

Direct flights to London, Manchester, and major European hubs. Visiting family and friends remains hassle-free.

Our Process

Initial Tax Analysis

Analyzing your income situation, reviewing your residence position under the UK Statutory Residence Test, and calculating the tax implications of your relocation.

Residency Planning & Registration

Preparing your Ordinary Residence registration or MRP application, and compiling all necessary documentation.

Property & Health Insurance

Assistance with finding accommodation and setting up suitable health insurance for Malta.

Relocation & Administrative Tasks

Guidance through the registration process, residency permits, tax numbers, and opening a bank account in Malta.

Ongoing Support

Annual tax returns and communication with UK and Maltese authorities. Your point of contact for all questions after the move.

Client Voices

What trust looks like in practice.

The free initial consultation with Horst Wickinghoff was very informative, and all my questions were answered/resolved. None of the other firms I contacted offer a free initial consultation. I will turn to Dr. Werner & Partner again if I have further questions, as you can hold Zoom calls with them from anywhere, and I felt that help was provided quickly and efficiently.

Max RollerTranslatedGoogle Review

After my husband had a very good consultation with Horst Wickinghoff, I also sought his expertise. He explains complex matters (for me) in a completely understandable way and addressed my questions directly. He is also very personable – something that shouldn't be neglected in this industry. :) Therefore, he has my absolute recommendation.

Tina S.Translated

Very pleasant location. Courteous, friendly, helpful, and competent. Would gladly return anytime.

Jason WalterTranslated

Frequently Asked Questions

Transparency matters to us. Here you will find answers to the most common questions on this topic.

This depends on your situation. For entrepreneurs and the self-employed, Malta typically becomes highly tax-efficient starting at an annual income of approx. EUR 80,000 to 100,000. For retirees under the MRP, there is a minimum annual tax of EUR 15,000. In both cases, we prepare a personalized comparative calculation.

To establish tax residency, your center of vital interests must be in Malta. The MRP requires you to spend at least 90 days a year in Malta, and you may not spend more than 183 days in any other single jurisdiction. Regular visits to your home country are perfectly fine.

Your UK tax residence is determined by the Statutory Residence Test, and split-year treatment often applies in the year you leave. The UK has no general exit tax, but the Temporary Non-Residence rule can bring certain gains realized within five years of departure back into UK tax, and UK property remains subject to Capital Gains Tax for non-residents. We coordinate the transition so your position with HMRC stays clean.

Yes. Expat families typically choose an international school with English-language instruction, such as QSI (American curriculum), Verdala (IB), or St. Edward's (British curriculum). Costs range from approx. EUR 500 to 1,800 per month per child. IB and A-Level qualifications are widely recognized at international universities.

Malta has a solid public healthcare system (Mater Dei Hospital) and several private clinics. EU citizens can access public healthcare using their EHIC. For the MRP, comprehensive private health insurance is mandatory.

Yes, this can trigger a permanent establishment risk for your employer. Working permanently from a fixed location for more than six months can turn your home office into a permanent establishment for corporate tax purposes. We advise both sides - employees and employers - on proper structuring and compliance.

Your journey to Malta starts with a conversation

In our free initial consultation, we will clarify taxes, residency, and a realistic timeline for your relocation.

CSP Licensed Badge

Corporate Services at DW&P Dr. Werner & Partners are provided by DW&P Services Ltd. (C 103208) which is regulated by the MFSA and is licensed under Authorised Person ID: DSER-23577 to carry out the activities of a Class C CSP in terms of the Company Services Providers Act (Cap. 529 of the Laws of Malta).

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