Expert: Why on one island 'we see more people moving from Britain than anywhere else'

As economic uncertainty grips the UK, increasing numbers of financially secure Britons are eyeing a new life abroad – and Malta is proving an irresistible option.

“We see more people moving from Britain than anywhere else,” says estate agent Grahame Salt. “They like the Mediterranean lifestyle, the low crime rate, the fact that English is spoken here and, above all, the low taxes.”

Once seen as a sleepy outpost, Malta has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Journalist Marianne Jones, who spent her childhood on the island, recently returned and was struck by how far it had come.

“The island bears no resemblance to the slightly sleepy rock of my youth, where I remember watching old ladies embroidering lace on their doorsteps while donkeys and carts passed by,” she said.

“Malta today is a young, vibrant and crowded place but still historically astonishing. When I last visited Valletta almost every bar was packed out and there was live music in the streets.

"Yet the Michelin star tasting menus and night life go hand in hand with ruins older than the pyramids, church bells and masterpieces.”

Tax-Friendly and Sun-Soaked

Malta’s tax regime is a major draw. While it can seem complicated, local estate agents offer clear guidance. Those who have lived on the island for five years can apply for a Long-Term Residence Permit, granting access to employment, education and public services.

Applicants need to show stable income, health insurance and secure accommodation. Meanwhile, UK nationals can also seek a Malta Permanent Residency Permit – requiring assets of at least €500,000 (£429,000) including €150,000 (£129,000) in investments, or €650,000 (£558,000) with at least €75,000 (£64,000) invested.

Long-term residents face progressive tax rates of up to 35 per cent – 10 per cent lower than the UK’s top rate. There’s no wealth, inheritance or annual property tax, although property purchases incur 5 per cent stamp duty, and capital gains tax may apply on sales.

Retirees can take advantage of the Malta Retirement Programme. To qualify, property must be owned or rented – with values starting from €275,000 (£236,721), or €220,000 (£189,145) in the south. Annual rents must be at least €9,600 (£8,254) or €8,750 (£7,522) respectively. Retirees must reside for 90 days annually, with 75 per cent of income from a pension. Foreign income is taxed at a flat 15 per cent, while local earnings are taxed at 35 per cent.

Business Boost and Career Opportunities

Thanks to English being an official language, starting a business in Malta is straightforward. Company registration takes just 1–2 weeks and share capital requirements are modest at €1,165 (£977), of which only 20 per cent is needed up front. Corporate tax rates range from just 5 to 7 per cent.

British expats with skills in IT, software, data analysis or finance will find opportunities plentiful. Malta has become a hub for tech and financial firms. There’s also demand for English teachers, given the island’s popularity with language students.

Top Education Options

Malta’s education system is highly regarded, with the choice of UK or US curricula. Leading schools include Verdala International, St. Edward’s College, QSI International and St Martin’s College, with annual fees ranging from €3,700 (£3,105) to €10,800 (£9,285). Many schools operate waiting lists, so early application is essential.

A Rich Tapestry of History and Culture

Malta’s complex history – from Phoenician to British rule – has left a rich legacy. Valletta’s grand palaces, Mdina’s fortifications and ancient alleys create a sense of timelessness. With 350 churches on the island, visitors are spoilt for choice, including St John's Co-Cathedral, which houses two Caravaggio masterpieces.

Despite its deep-rooted history, British influences remain strong – from left-hand driving to familiar high street names like Marks & Spencer and Zara.

Affordable Island Life

Living costs are lower than in the UK, with the average family of four spending around £2,571 per month compared to £3,907. Rents are 22 per cent cheaper and city centre apartments are almost 40 per cent less expensive than in London.

Property with Character

Malta’s property market has soared, with prices up 125 per cent over the past decade. While initial views from the airport may seem uninspiring, a deeper look reveals a captivating blend of baroque elegance and modern luxury.

Half of Malta’s 297,000 homes are apartments, but options abound – from sleek developments like Tigne Point, with views of Valletta and an infinity pool, to grand 16th-century palazzos in inland villages like Gharghur, Naxxar and Lija.

“The thing that most Brits like is that everybody integrates so happily,” says Salt. “In many countries, such as Spain, you find incomers forming together in their own communities, making little attempt to mix. That doesn’t happen here.”

For many, it’s this blend of tradition, opportunity and community that makes Malta such a compelling place to call home.

As Marianne Jones says: “I still love Malta more than anywhere in the world.”