Why Malta? :: Living and Working in Malta

Malta has a lot to offer whether you're seeking a contract here for a few years or a longer-term career stay.  Malta is not only steeped in history, but has a lively contemporary and cosmopolitan feel to it.  The Islands are fast becoming one of the most sought-after relocation destinations for young- and mid-career professionals. 

To give you an idea of what's on offer here and what to expect, we've put together this brief guide.  For an excellent source of factual information on living & working in Malta, see the UK's JobPlus website.  See also the Malta Government portal for details on settling on the Islands.

Mediterranean living
The Islands offer an enviable outdoor lifestyle. In fact, it’s a place that has an excellent work-life balance.  The working atmosphere in the ICT sector is mainly relaxed and informal while the firms themselves are often at the cutting edge of ICT developments, operating globally from a Malta base.  This combination of professionalism, opportunity and excellent lifestyle has seen the Islands rise in popularity as a relocation destination for both ICT firms and staff alike.  The Islands are also cosmopolitan while retaining their own distinct charm and character.  Nationalities from across the globe rub shoulders here.  The Islands are also very family-friendly, as is the norm in Mediterranean cultures.

English speaking
Malta is an English-speaking destination by virtue of its historic ties with Britain.  It has a strong English language teaching (ELT) sector which welcomes students of all nationalities and ages for language-learning stays on the Islands. Malta in fact has two official languages,  English, and Maltese which is a unique, Semitic language probably derived from ancient Phoenician.  English is the main language of business while official communications from government are published in both languages. 

EU member state
Malta joined the European Union as a member state in 2004.  It therefore has the obligation to accede to all EU legislation, known as the Aquis Communautaire.  Prior to joining, Malta was already well advanced in its adoption of EU law in many key sectors, such as financial services.  It was also well ahead in promoting investment in ICT infrastructure, which is a main thrust of many EU policies. Malta has also adopted the Euro currency in January 2008.

Climate
Climate and lifestyle are a significant reason why many ICT firms not only hire, but retain their quality, overseas’ staff for the long term.  Malta has near year-round sun, with mild, temperate winters and hot, dry summers.  It has long experience of welcoming holiday makers to its shores seeking the sun and sea.  The Islands also offer an excellent climate in autumn through to spring, when activities such as walking, cycling and sailing can be enjoyed at their best. 

Culture & History
The Islands can trace their history back around 7,000 years.  Over the millennia, many cultures and nationalities have made the Islands their home, trading place and strategic base, and all have left fascinating traces of their lives.  Malta is often known as an ‘open air museum’ for its many sights and its splendid architecture - it boast three Unesco World Heritage sites, which is surprising given the country's size.

Music & the Arts
Malta has a vibrant, contemporary cultural life with something for all tastes. It has a year-round events calendar including theatre (in English), a wide range of performing and visual arts as well as traditional Mediterranean events such as festas.  Malta is now firmly on the touring programmes of many internationally renowned pop, rock, classical and opera singers and performers and attracts numerous international theatre groups.  

Excellent flight connections
Malta has regular, scheduled flights to all major European capitals and many second cities often offering several daily services to certain key destinations.  It also has efficient flight connections onwards within Europe and to long-haul destinations.  It is served by various national and charter airlines and is increasingly being served by low-budget carriers particularly on UK and Italian routes.