Everything you need to know before doing an exchange in Malta 2025

Malta, this small archipelago in the Mediterranean, has established itself as an incredible destination for those seeking a transformative exchange experience. With its sunny climate, rich cultural heritage and quality education system, the country offers unique opportunities for international students. With over 11,000 students enrolled, including 650 from 77 different countries, Malta has become a vibrant and multicultural educational hub. Before packing your bags, it's essential to know all the details to ensure a smooth experience in 2025.

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Visas and legal requirements to study in Malta

The first step in carrying out your exchange in Malta is to fully understand the visa requirements. By 2025, students who wish to study for 15 weeks or more they must apply for a student visa before traveling, while still in the country of origin. Exchange students who wish to go to Malta to study for up to 12 weeks can travel as tourists and there is no need to apply for a visa.

The student visa application process requires a series of fundamental documents:

• Valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for more than 6 months
• Proof of enrollment in a Maltese educational institution recognized by the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF)
• Financial proof of at least €900 per month (bank statements from the last three months, signed and stamped by the bank manager)
• Health insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000 valid in Malta
• Proof of accommodation in Malta (rental agreement or confirmation letter)
• Visa application form filled out correctly
• Motivation letter explaining your academic goals
• Income tax return or explanatory letter regarding the origin of the funds

Visa processing time is typically 4 weeks, but can extend up to 8-9 weeks during periods of high demand, so plan ahead. The approval rate is approximately 95%, but rejections may occur due to lack of adequate financial proof or incorrect information.

After arriving in Malta, you must register with the local police and you must apply for the e-Residence Permit at the Identity Malta Agency. This document is essential, acting as your identity card in the country and allowing travel through the Schengen Area.

Study and Work in Malta it becomes simpler when you have all the documentation in order before you even start your journey.

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Living costs and financial planning in Malta

Proper financial planning is crucial to the success of your exchange. A major advantage of Malta in 2025 is that the country offers an approximately 20% more affordable cost of living compared to other popular European destinations, but still requires a well-structured budget.

The monthly costs in Malta vary depending on the city and your lifestyle, but we can establish some detailed averages for 2025:

Accommodation:

• Shared room in student residence: €350-450
• Shared accommodation in remote areas: €400-500
• Shared accommodation in central areas: €550-650
• One bedroom apartment in the center (Valletta/Sliema): €1,000-1,100
• One-bedroom apartment in less central areas: €700-850

Food:

• Supermarket (basic): €200-250
• Including some meals outside: €300-350
• Meal at a budget restaurant: €10-15
• Meal at a medium standard restaurant: €20-30
• Coffee: €1.50-2.50

Transportation:

• Monthly bus pass: €40-50 (with student ID)
• 12-trip pass: €15
• Taxi (average trip): €10-15
• Monthly bike rental: €30-40

Utilities and services:

• Electricity and heating/air conditioning: €50-80 (varies by season)
• Internet: €25-35
• Cell phone (basic plan): €15-25
• Laundry (if not included in the accommodation): €20-30

Entertainment and extras:

• Fitness center: €30-50 per month
• Cinema: €8-12 per ticket
• Nightclub (admission): €10-20
• Books and study materials: €30-50 per month

The total annual amount, considering a moderate lifestyle, can vary between €10,000 and €12,000 with accommodation, or approximately €9,000 without housing costs (for those who obtain subsidized accommodation). Valletta and Sliema are the most expensive areas, while cities like Msida, Gzira, or Saint Julian offer more affordable options.

A smart strategy is to monitor exchange rates before making large international transfers. In addition, Malta offers the advantage of a Mediterranean climate with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, allowing significant savings on heating during winter, unlike other European destinations.

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Job opportunities during the exchange

One of the great advantages of doing an exchange in Malta is the legal permission to study and work simultaneously. According to the regulations updated for 2025, students can work from day one in Malta, provided they have a job offer by a registered company.

With a work permit, you are legally allowed to work up to 20 hours a week. During official school vacation periods, it is possible to work full time (up to 40 hours a week), which provides an excellent opportunity to increase your income and gain valuable international experience. In 2025, the compensation for part-time jobs is approximately €7.00 per hour, depending on the sector and function.

To obtain a work permit as a student in 2025, you will need:

• Have a job offer (job offer)
• Have a valid e-Residence Permit
• Submit a confirmation letter from the educational institution
• Maintain a minimum course attendance of 75%
• Ensure that work does not interfere with studies

The sectors that most employ international students in Malta are:

• Hospitality and tourism: Hotels (reception, services), restaurants (waiters, kitchen assistants), bars (bartenders, attendants), with average salaries of €7-10 per hour + tips
• Retail: Stores in shopping centers and tourist areas, paying approximately €6-8 per hour
• Multilingual call centers: Especially for Portuguese, Spanish and Italian speakers, with an average compensation of €9-12 per hour
• Language schools: Assistants, monitors or receptionists, salaries between €8-10 per hour
• Technology companies: Basic technical support or data entry, for students with specific skills, paying €10-15 per hour

Malta also stands out for the growth of the iGaming (online betting) sector, which in 2025 employs more than 12,000 people in the country. These companies often seek multilingual professionals for customer service, technical support and marketing, with starting salaries starting at €1,200 per month even for entry-level positions. This industry generally offers salaries 30-40% above the national average and represents an excellent opportunity for those who wish to start an international career.

The unemployment rate in Malta is around 3.2% in 2025, which makes the market quite favorable for international students, especially those with language skills.

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Available educational institutions and programs

Malta offers an impressive range of internationally recognized educational institutions. The country's education system follows the British model, ensuring high quality and global recognition of the diplomas and certificates obtained. As of 2025, Malta is home to more than 40 accredited educational institutions, serving more than 11,000 students, with a significant international contingent of 1,700 students from 100 different countries.

Study options in Malta include:

• Intensive English courses: Programs from 2 to 52 weeks focusing on general or specific proficiency (business, academic), with an average of 20-30 class hours per week and small class sizes (maximum 12 students)
• Vocational and technical programs: Certificates (6-12 months) and diplomas (1-2 years) in areas such as hospitality, technology, business and health, with an expressive practical component (60% practical, 40% theoretical)
• Undergraduate and graduate studies: Bachelors (3-4 years), master's degrees (1-2 years) and doctorates (3-5 years) in various areas, with programs taught entirely in English
• Specialized courses: Short programs (3-12 months)

When choosing an institution for 2025, always check:

• Official recognition by the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF)
• Accreditation to receive international students
• Graduate employability rates
• Specific support services for foreigners
• Internship and Professional Placement Options
• Feedback from alumni (available on platforms such as StudyPortals and QS)

It is also important to consider the Maltese academic calendar for 2025, with the main admission period starting in September/October (deadline July 1st) and a second lower intake in January/February. Some institutions have specific deadlines, so check in advance. Admission procedures include academic record analysis, proof of English proficiency (generally IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) and, in some cases, online interviews.

Learning a language abroad is an excellent way to start your educational journey in Malta before moving on to more specific programs, especially since many language courses offer direct paths to admission to more advanced academic programs, with some institutions offering discounts of up to 15% on tuition for students who progress internally.

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Cultural adaptation and practical tips

Cultural adaptation is a fundamental aspect of exchange that is often underestimated. Malta has a unique culture, with British, Mediterranean and Arab influences, creating a fascinating multicultural environment. The country receives more than 1.7 million tourists annually, almost four times its population of approximately 516,000 inhabitants, which contributes to its international and welcoming atmosphere.

English is one of the official languages, spoken by approximately 88% of the population, which greatly facilitates communication for international students. Maltese, a Semitic language influenced by Italian and English, is spoken by 97% of the locals. Learning some basic words in Maltese is always appreciated by locals and helps with integration:

• “Bongu” (Good morning)
• “Grazzi” (Thank you)
• “Iva” (Yes)
• “Le” (No)
• “Sahha” (Health/Goodbye)
• “Kemi jiswa dan?” (How much does it cost?)
• “Jien student/a” (I am a student)

Important cultural aspects:

• Social Etiquette: Maltese people are formal at first dates. Handshakes are common in professional settings. In social situations, it's normal to greet with two kisses on the cheeks after establishing friendship.
• Punctuality: Although Mediterranean culture is more relaxed when it comes to schedules in social settings, punctuality is valued in academic and professional environments.
• Religion: Approximately 90% of the population is Roman Catholic. Respecting religious traditions is important, especially during festivities such as Holy Week and the “festivities” (festivals dedicated to patron saints) that take place during the summer.
• Clothing: The dress code is generally casual but conservative for formal occasions and church visits (shoulders and knees covered).
• Gastronomy: Maltese cuisine mixes Italian and Mediterranean influences. Typical dishes include “pastizzi” (puff pastry filled with ricotta or pea), “timpana” (baked pasta), “fenek” (rabbit), and “lampuki” (golden fish).

To make it easier for you to adapt in 2025, consider these detailed practical tips:

Transportation:

• Malta Public Transport's bus system covers the entire main island and Gozo
• Student passes (Tallinja Student Card) cost €21 per month with unlimited travel
• Regular ferries connect Malta to Gozo (€4.65 each way, with discounts for residents)
• Ride-sharing apps like Bolt are popular and relatively affordable
• Consider renting a bike or scooter for short trips (starting at €8/day)

Climate and health:

• Malta has more than 300 days of sunshine a year, with temperatures reaching 35°C in summer
• Use sunscreen (factor 30+), sunglasses, and stay hydrated
• Winter (December-February) is mild (12-17°C) but humid, with occasional rains
• The public health system is accessible to students with an e-Residence Permit
• Main hospitals: Mater Dei Hospital (public) and St. James Hospital (private)
• Pharmacies operate on a rotational system for 24-hour service

Banking system:

• Top banks: Bank of Valletta, HSBC, and APS Bank
• Documents for opening an account: passport, e-Residence Permit, proof of enrollment, proof of address
• Opening time: 1-2 weeks
• International transfer apps like Wise and Revolut are popular with students
• Prepaid cards are widely accepted and a good alternative before opening a local account

Safety:

• Malta has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe (rate of 20.9 per 100,000 inhabitants)
• Touristic areas like Paceville can have petty theft, especially at night
• Emergency number: 112 (police, ambulance, firefighters)
• Registration at the Brazilian consulate (via Consulate in Rome) is recommended

Social integration:

• Take part in the guidelines offered by your educational institution
• Facebook groups like “Expats in Malta” and “Brazilians in Malta” (with over 3,500 members) are excellent for networking
• Events like Malta International Food Festival (May) and Isle of MTV (June) are opportunities to meet people
• Apps like Meetup and InterNations organize regular events for expatriates
• ESN Malta (Erasmus Student Network) promotes activities for the integration of international students

Explore the archipelago:

• Malta has three main islands: Malta (main island), Gozo (more rural and traditional) and Comino (small, famous for the Blue Lagoon)
• Valletta: capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with impressive Baroque architecture
• Mdina: former medieval capital known as the “Silent City”
• Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua): historic area with impressive fortifications
• Blue Grotto: rock formations and sea caves in the south of the island
• Recommended beaches: Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, Paradise Bay (Malta) and Ramla Bay (Gozo)

Technology and communication:

• Operators: Vodafone, GO and Melita offer student packages starting at €15/month
• Free Wi-Fi available in many public spaces, cafes, and public transport
• Electrical plugs: type G (British, three-pin) - take adapters

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Procedures upon arrival and first steps

The first few days in Malta are crucial for laying the foundations for a successful experience. Upon arrival, you will be required to follow some important administrative procedures:

• Register with the local police within 7 days of your arrival
• Open a local bank account (HSBC, Bank of Valletta, or APS are popular options)
• Get a local cell phone chip (Vodafone, GO, or Melita offer student packages)
• Familiarize yourself with the local public transport system
• Register at the health center closest to your home

It is also advisable to locate the nearest Brazilian embassy or consulate (often in Rome, Italy) and register for consular assistance in case of emergency. Most educational institutions offer orientation sessions for new students, which are extremely useful for obtaining practical information about life in Malta.

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Be Easy

A Be Easy is by your side at every stage of your journey to Malta, offering complete support from choosing the ideal program to its adaptation to the country. With our experience in international exchanges, we guarantee a smooth and secure process, taking care of documentation, pre-shipment guidance, and ongoing support during your stay. Contact us today and discover how we can make your dream of studying and working in Malta a reality!

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