Malta vs England: What is the best European destination to learn English in 2025?
Planning an exchange to learn English is a transformative decision that can open doors to international professional opportunities. In 2025, two European destinations stand out among Brazilians who wish to improve their language skills: Malta and England. Each one offers unique experiences with advantages and peculiarities that can make all the difference in your learning and life experience.
Visa processes: facilities and requirements
For Brazilians who wish to study English in Europe, understanding the visa processes is essential to properly plan their exchange. Malta presents a relatively simpler process for international students. For courses of up to 3 months, Brazilians can enter as tourists without a visa. For longer periods, it is necessary to apply for a student visa, which allows you to stay for the entire course period.
In England, on the other hand, the process is more stringent. The country requires the Student Visa for long-term courses or the Short-term Study Visa for programs of up to 11 months. Requirements include proof of enrollment at an accredited institution, international health insurance and, in many cases, proof of basic English proficiency before even starting the course. O Learning a language abroad may be more affordable in terms of a visa for those choosing Malta, especially for short courses.
Financial proof: important differences
Financial proof represents one of the main requirements for obtaining student visas, with significant differences between the two destinations. Understanding these requirements is essential to avoid setbacks in the process.
For Malta, the government requires proof of approximately €594 per month of stay, which amounts to around €7,128 for one year. Accepted forms include:
- Bank statements for the last three months
- Sponsorship letter with supporting documentation (for those with financial support from family members)
- Proof of scholarship or educational funding
- Proof of regular income, for those who already work remotely
In England, the values are considerably higher. For the Student Visa, it is necessary to prove approximately £1,334 per month for cities outside London and £1,694 for those who intend to study in the British capital. This represents a significantly larger initial investment, especially considering the British pound exchange rate.
Cost of living: impact on the total budget
The cost of living is a decisive factor when choosing an exchange destination, as it directly impacts the total budget of the experience. Malta stands out as a more economical option for Brazilian students seeking to optimize their financial resources during their study period abroad.
In Malta, the average monthly cost for international students ranges from €800 to €1,000, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Major cities, such as Valletta and Sliema, offer more affordable rentals, with shared rooms starting at €350 and studios starting at €500. The public transport system is efficient and economical, with monthly passes costing approximately €26.
On the other hand, England has a significantly higher cost of living. In smaller university cities, the minimum monthly budget is around £800, while in London this amount easily exceeds £1,500. Accommodation makes the biggest difference, with shared rooms in London starting at £600, more than double the price in Malta. Recent research indicates that Malta is between 9% and 16% cheaper than England, a difference that becomes significant over several months of study.
Job opportunities: balancing studies and income
Reconciling studies with a part-time job can be an important strategy to finance part of the expenses during the exchange. Work policies for international students vary significantly between the two destinations, directly influencing experience and financial planning.
In Malta, students with a student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the term of office. The main opportunities are concentrated on:
- Tourism and hospitality sector (hotels, restaurants, bars)
- Customer service and international call centers
- Language schools (assistants or monitors)
- Retail and shopping malls
- Technology and iGaming companies, a booming sector in the country
In England, on the other hand, the rules are more restrictive. With the Short-term Study Visa (for courses from 6 to 11 months), work is not allowed, which is a significant disadvantage for those who want to supplement their income. Only with the traditional Student Visa it is possible to work up to 20 hours a week, but this visa is only available for longer courses and with stricter requirements.
Cultural adaptation and climate: comfort during the experience
The cultural environment and weather conditions have a major impact on student adaptation and, consequently, on the enjoyment of the English course. Malta offers a Mediterranean climate with hot summers (25-35°C) and mild winters (10-15°C), much closer to what Brazilians are used to. The island combines Mediterranean influences with traits of British culture, a result of its past as an English colony.
England has a temperate climate marked by lower temperatures, with winters that can reach temperatures close to 0°C in some regions, in addition to the famous British rain that occurs throughout the year. Culturally, the country offers immense diversity, especially in urban centers such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham. O Study and Work in Malta may provide a smoother adaptation for Brazilians, especially those who have never lived abroad before.
Education system: quality and teaching approaches
Both Malta and England offer quality educational institutions for those who wish to learn English, but with distinct approaches and characteristics that may influence your choice. Knowing these differences helps you select the most appropriate destination for your learning objectives.
In Malta, English schools follow modern and communicative methodologies, focusing on the constant practice of the language. The immersion environment is enhanced by the fact that English is one of the country's official languages, present in all social contexts. Class sizes are generally smaller, allowing for more individualized attention from teachers. Many schools include cultural and leisure activities that complement learning, taking advantage of the island's natural beauty and historical heritage.
In England, the birthplace of the English language, institutions often adopt more traditional and academic approaches, with an emphasis on formal aspects of the language. The country offers a wider range of specialized courses, such as business English, international exam preparation, and academic programs. The experience of studying in the native language environment provides exposure to different regional accents and expressions, enriching linguistic and cultural understanding.
Certifications and international recognition
The validation of your learning through recognized certifications is an important factor to consider. Both destinations offer possibilities to obtain proficiency certificates that can enhance your curriculum internationally.
In England, you'll be closer to major exam centers such as Cambridge Assessment English and British Council, which administer exams such as IELTS, Cambridge English Qualifications (B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) and TOEFL. Many schools offer specific programs for preparing these exams, with high passing rates.
Malta also has accredited centers for the application of the main international exams, but with a smaller range of dates available. However, Maltese schools are officially recognized by the ELT Council (English Language Teaching Council), ensuring quality standards aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This accreditation ensures that certificates obtained in Malta are recognized internationally.
Networking and international connections
In addition to language learning, the exchange offers the opportunity to build a global network of contacts. Both destinations provide multicultural environments, but with distinct characteristics that may be decisive for your choice.
In Malta, English schools welcome students of various nationalities, especially from continental Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The island's more compact environment facilitates constant interaction between students, creating a cohesive international community. The social activities organized by the schools and the tourist atmosphere provide connections that are often maintained after the end of the program.
In England, especially in London, you will be exposed to one of the most cosmopolitan environments in the world. British schools often attract students from countries where English is professionally valued, such as Japan, South Korea, China, and Middle Eastern nations. This diversity allows us to build a truly global network of contacts, potentially valuable for future academic or professional endeavors.
Be Easy
A Be Easy is ready to help you choose the ideal destination for your English exchange in 2025, be it Malta or England. Our specialized team offers complete support from school choice to adaptation in the country, ensuring a transformative experience. With personalized programs, visa advice, and support throughout your journey, we make the process simple and secure. Get in touch today and discover how we can make your dream of studying English abroad a reality!
