5 Reasons To Choose Malta For Your Retirement

Retirement, a time to do what you want to do, when you want to do it, where you want to do it and how you want to do it

Catherine Pulsifer

As part of our guest writers series, we are excited to welcome Martyna Inkielman, a content writer at PhotoAiD. The PhotoAiD app is an excellent service that allows you to take the perfect biometric passport photo from home. You get to choose the photo you look best in. We all hate those awful ones most of us have in our passports.

Martyna will be contributing multiple data-based articles that will provide insight to our readers. Malta is an ideal destination for retirement, and now you will learn why. What makes Malta even more intriguing is it is one of the top places digital nomads are welcomed to work remotely. Many of the factors that Martyna mentions apply to digital nomads as well.

Our visit

We visited Malta in 2021 and were captivated by this tiny island with a big heart. Located in the southern Mediterranean sea between Italy and Tunisia, Malta has a unique history, ancient sites, and delicious cuisine. All the reasons why Malta is a great place for retirement are the same reasons to visit too!

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As people approach their retirement, many dream of moving to a new country where they can enjoy a different way of life. According to the ranking of best countries to retire in Europe created by Passport Photo Online, Malta is the best place for your golden years of them all. In this article, we will explore the top five reasons why Malta is an excellent choice for retirement. Whether seeking a warmer climate, more affordable living costs, excellent healthcare, or a welcoming community, Malta has all these – and more. So, if you’re considering retiring overseas, keep reading to learn why Malta should be at the top of your list.

Reason #1: Climate and Scenery

Malta is a popular destination for retirees seeking a warm and picturesque location to settle down. The island boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, with long and hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive place to enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Retirees will find plenty of opportunities to stay active with various outdoor activities, including swimming, sailing, fishing, and golf. The rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters are perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering ideal conditions for activities. Popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

Malta’s natural beauty is a sight to behold, with numerous beautiful beaches, rugged coastlines, and charming harbor towns scattered across the island. Its capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Baroque architecture, ancient fortifications, and stunning views of the Grand Harbour.

For those looking for a more laid-back experience, Malta’s countryside is dotted with charming villages and towns, each with unique character and charm. From the historic walled city of Mdina to the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk, Malta has no shortage of stunning landscapes to explore.

Reason #2: Malta’s Cuisine

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Malta is renowned for its delectable cuisine. The island’s culinary scene reflects its unique blend of Italian, North African, and Middle Eastern influences, creating a diverse range of dishes that are sure to appeal to any taste buds.

Malta’s cuisine is renowned for its abundant fresh seafood, thanks to its Mediterranean location. The island’s coastal towns and villages are home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the Mediterranean, offering an array of dishes featuring freshly caught fish and shellfish.

Malta’s street food scene is also a must-try, with lively food markets and street vendors serving various mouth-watering snacks and treats that will tantalize your senses.

For retirees who consider themselves foodies, Malta is an ideal destination to retire, as it offers a vast selection of delectable dishes to choose from. Your retirement in Malta will be full of culinary adventures and memorable dining experiences, leaving you satisfied and wanting more.

Reason #3: Ease of Residency

Malta’s citizenship-by-investment program is a compelling opportunity for foreign nationals looking to acquire Maltese citizenship by investing in the country. This program particularly appeals to retirees who wish to relocate permanently to Malta, granting them the freedom to live, work, and travel across the European Union.

Furthermore, Malta extends tax incentives to retirees who choose to settle on the island, providing a low flat tax rate of 15% on foreign income.

Retirees seeking to apply for residency in Malta can do so by providing proof of income, a valid passport, and evidence of health insurance coverage. Malta’s visa policy is very accommodating, allowing residents to travel freely within the Schengen Area.

As an English-speaking country, Malta is ideal for retirees who are not fluent in other European languages. With English being the official language of Malta, it is easy for English-speaking retirees to communicate and navigate their way around the island.

Reason #4: High-Quality Healthcare

Malta’s modern hospitals and medical centers are equipped with top-of-the-line facilities, offering retirees a comprehensive range of medical services. The medical staff is highly qualified and proficient in English, ensuring clear communication with patients and exceptional care.

One of the significant benefits of Malta’s healthcare system is its affordability. The cost of healthcare services is significantly lower than in other European countries, making it a sought-after destination for retirees seeking quality yet affordable medical care.

In addition, Malta has established reciprocal healthcare agreements with several other European countries, enabling retirees to access medical services at reduced rates.

Retirees can also take advantage of the vast array of comprehensive medical insurance plans offered by the island’s private healthcare providers. These affordable policies provide peace of mind to retirees, knowing they are covered in any medical emergency.

Reason #5: Low Cost of Living

Last but definitely not least, it’s worth noting that Malta offers an affordable cost of living compared to other European countries, making it an excellent option for retirees looking to make the most of their retirement income. The price of accommodations in Malta is significantly lower than in other European countries, with a range of affordable housing options available, from apartments to houses in urban or rural areas.

Food and entertainment costs in Malta are also reasonably priced, with a wide selection of dining options available at local restaurants, cafes, and bars. Retirees can enjoy free or low-cost entertainment options like local festivals, museums, and historical sites. Transportation costs are also low, making it easy and cost-effective to travel around the island.

Additionally, Malta offers tax incentives for retirees, including the low flat tax rate of 15% on foreign income. That makes it a desirable destination for retirees seeking to stretch their retirement income further.

Interested in checking out what Malta has to offer? Check out our Malta Country Guide.

Stacking it all up

There you have it! Malta is clearly an exceptional destination for retirees seeking a high quality of life at an affordable cost.

From its sunny weather and beautiful scenery to its delicious cuisine, ease of residency, high-quality healthcare, and low cost of living, Malta offers all the ingredients for a comfortable and enjoyable retirement.

All considered it’s no wonder that Malta is at the top of the list for retirees seeking a new adventure and a fulfilling retirement. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Malta is the perfect place to call home in your golden years.

Are you considering traveling there? Make sure to be safe by taking care of your travel insurance.

Writer’s bio

Martyna Inkielman in a content writer at PhotoAiD. She enjoys writing about travel and lifestyle topics. When she’s not writing, Martyna can be found exploring new cuisines, painting, and taking analog photos.

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