Settling-in to Malta
At Flutter, we understand that moving to a new country is more than just a change of address—it’s a life-changing journey.
Destination services support through our Relocation partner, Heart Relocation is designed to make your transition as smooth, comfortable, and stress-free as possible.
The support is subject to your personal circumstances, but may include: School and Childcare Guidance, Utility and Service Setup, Banking and Documentation Support, Registration with doctors and dentists, Community Integration and Cultural tips.
We take care of the details so you can focus on building your new life with confidence and peace of mind.
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🛒 Supermarkets & Grocery Stores
Malta offers a mix of large supermarket chains and smaller local grocers:
Welbee’s – Known for premium groceries, wines, and gourmet items.
Lidl– Popular for budget-friendly shopping with a wide range of European products.
Greens Supermarket (Swieqi) – A large, modern supermarket with fresh produce, deli, and bakery.
Pavi & Pama Supermarkets – Large hypermarkets with everything from food to electronics.
Malta operates a Beverage Container Refund Scheme (BCRS) where you receive a refund for every empty single use beverage container returned.
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💊 Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Malta are well-distributed and often double as beauty and wellness stores:
Brown’s Pharmacy – A well-known chain with locations across the islands.
Remedies Pharmacy – Offers prescription services, cosmetics, and health consultations.
St. Paul’s Pharmacy – Known for its wide selection of over-the-counter and natural remedies.
Most pharmacies are open during regular business hours, with some offering 24/7 emergency services
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🩺 Healthcare
Ranked 18th globally in the 2024 CEOWORLD Healthcare Index.
Covers essential services: emergency care, surgery, specialist treatment, maternity care, and prescribed medications.
Long waiting times for non-urgent procedures are a common issue.
Life expectancy in Malta is 83.36 years, significantly above the EU average.
Malta has a network of public health centres across the islands. You can:
Walk in or call to register with a GP
Use the Primary HealthCare website to find your nearest centre
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🎭 Entertainment & Leisure Shopping
Bay Street Complex – Includes a VR arcade, bowling alley, and restaurants
Eden Cinemas (St. Julian’s) – A popular cinema complex with the latest films.
Ta’ Qali Crafts Village – Great for watching artisans at work and buying handmade glass, silver filigree, and textiles
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👗 Clothing & Fashion
Malta’s fashion scene blends international brands with local flair:
Shopping Malls
The Point Shopping Mall(Sliema) – Malta’s largest mall with Zara, Mango, Pull & Bear, Tommy Hilfiger, and more
Bay Street Complex (St. Julian’s) – Combines shopping with entertainment; includes Adidas, Guess, and Skechers
Boutiques & Local Designers
Charles & Ron – Malta’s top fashion label, known for bold, Mediterranean-inspired designs
Republic Street & Merchant Street (Valletta) – Ideal for boutique shopping, artisan crafts, and luxury items
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⛽ Petrol Stations
Fuel stations are common and often include convenience stores:
Enemed – The national fuel provider with stations across Malta and Gozo.
PetroPlus and APCO – Other reliable providers.
Many stations are self-service and accept card payments, though some still operate with attendants.
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🏋️ Health & Fitness Clubs
Malta offers a vibrant fitness scene with a wide range of gyms and wellness centres catering to all levels and preferences. Here are some of the top gyms and fitness centres in Malta as of 2025:
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🧺 Other Shopping
🧺 Markets & Local Finds
Marsaxlokk Sunday Market – Famous for fresh fish, local produce, and handmade crafts
Birgu Market – A mix of clothing, household goods, and food stalls
🧴 Beauty & Wellness
Soap Café (Sliema) – Artisan beauty products made with local ingredients
Health & Co. – A growing chain for organic and wellness products.
🏠 Home & Lifestyle
JYSK and Homemate – For furniture, home décor, and kitchenware.
Tal-Lira – Malta’s version of a pound shop, great for budget home items.
Opening a Bank Account
To open a local bank account in Malta as an expat typically the following documents and information are needed:
1. Identification - Passport and Maltese Residence Permit
2. Proof of Address - Utility Bills / Rental Agreement / Official Correspondence to Maltese address.
3. Proof of Income or Employment - Employment Contract / Payslips (Should the applicant plan to deposit a significant amount the bank will require to explain the source of the funds)
4. Tax Identification Number (TIN) - Tax Number issued in country of origin and Maltese TIN
5. Contact Details - The applicant is required to provide a mobile phone number and email address for communication purposes
5. Bank Application forms
Most banks require the client to apply in person to verify the identity and documents.
After the bank account opening the applicant will be allowed to setup the online banking for easier access and management of funds.
Some banks may require an initial deposit to open the account.
Based on your needs, we research different banks and their account offerings, fees, and services to find one that will suit you the most. HSBC seems to be the most sought after.
Insight - The Point Shopping Centre
GianLuca D’Anna provides a quick orientation of the Point Shopping Centre and its proximity to some of the possible apartment complex’s you might consider in Malta
Insight - PAMA Shopping Centre
GianLuca D,Anna our local partner in Malta introduces the PAMA Shopping Centre in Musta, one of the plentiful shopping centres available in Malta.
FAQs
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Heart Relocation will take care of all the things you need to get settled into your new location even down to taking you to the local supermarkets to ensure you know how they operate and help you feel “like a local” as quickly as possible.
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The Heart Relocation Team will be there to help you but there are things you can do to help you settle in to life in Malta:
Join expat groups
Attend local festivals and events
Take part in language exchanges or volunteer work
Malta’s friendly culture makes it easy to connect
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Yes. Malta is considered very safe, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community.
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Yes. English is an official language, alongside Maltese. Most locals are bilingual, and all official documents and services are available in English
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Yes, banks may charge:
Monthly maintenance fees
ATM withdrawal fees
International transfer fees These vary by bank and account type.
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It typically takes 1–2 business days if all documents are in order.
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For individuals, the typical documents include:
A valid passport or Maltese ID card
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or rental agreement)
A completed application form from the bank
A reference letter from a previous bank or employer (sometimes optional)
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Bay Street Shopping Complex (St. Julian’s) for international brands
The Point (Sliema) for fashion and electronics
Valletta’s Republic Street for souvenirs and local crafts
Birkirkara Market for fresh produce and bargains
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Maltese lace
Blown glass (Mdina Glass)
Local honey and nougat
Cactus liqueur and wine
Filigree silver jewellery
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Most shops are open:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sundays: Many shops are closed, except in tourist areas
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In markets: Yes, polite bargaining is common.
In malls or chain stores: No, prices are fixed.
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Yes, especially for electronics, fashion, and groceries. Many locals use EU-based websites for better prices and delivery options.
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Yes! Major sales happen:
January (post-Christmas)
July–August (summer sales)
Look for “Skont” signs, which mean discounts.