Banking in Malta is generally straightforward and accessible, with both local and international banks offering a range of services for residents, expats, and businesses. To open a bank account, you'll typically need proof of identity, proof of address, and in some cases, a reference letter or employment contract. Most banks offer online banking, mobile apps, and English-language support.

While some processes may feel bureaucratic, especially for third-country nationals, once set up, accounts are easy to manage. Popular banks in Malta include Bank of Valletta (BOV) and HSBC Malta, which have the widest branch networks. Other options include APS Bank, Lombard Bank, and MeDirect, which is known for its online-only banking and investment services. Newer digital banking platforms like Revolut and Wise are also widely used, particularly among expats, for their convenience and low international transfer fees.

With Revolut, users can open a Euro account within minutes, get a free or premium debit card, and manage everything via the mobile app. It's especially handy for sending and receiving international payments, converting currencies at interbank rates, and budgeting with built-in analytics. Many expats use it to receive salaries, split bills, and avoid high fees associated with traditional banks. Just note that while Revolut is convenient, it doesn't offer the same level of local financial services (like mortgage lending or in-person support) that traditional Maltese banks do — so it's often used alongside a local bank account rather than as a full replacement.

Revolut customers can also buy shares, invest in commiddities, invest in savings accounts, buy crypto, send and spend money internationally at with no commission rates, and also earn RevPoints from purchases, which can then be redeemed for discounts on various items and on ecommerce sites. Revolut is available through the Google Playstore and the Apple App store.

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Renting a property in Malta is a common choice for expats and newcomers, but it can be competitive and expensive, especially in high-demand areas like Sliema, St. Julian’s, Swieqi and Gżira. Rental prices have increased in recent years, with one-bedroom apartments in central locations often costing between €1100–€1,300 per month.

Most rentals come furnished, and it's typical to pay a one-month deposit plus the first month’s rent upfront, along with a 50% agent fee. Contracts usually run for one year, though shorter-term rentals are available at higher rates. It's important to carefully read the lease, clarify utility arrangements, and ensure everything is in writing. Should a landlord choose to extend the rental period for the same tenant, the landlord is not allowed to increase the rent by more than 5%. This is the law. Once a property is rented, any disputes and management of the property is strictly with the property owner. The rental agents play no further role once a property is rented.

Many experienced expats living Malta, make use of Facebook groups to find apartments and especially look in Facebook groups where owners advertise and rent directly, with no agent services. However, it should be noted that moderation of Facebook groups advertising property rentals are exceptionally poor, with groups being spammed on an hourly basis and agents advertising in groups where only owners of properties were meant to be advertising.

Here are some reputable real estate agencies in Malta that specialize in rentals:

• Frank Salt Real Estate

• Remax Malta

• QuickLets

• Belair Property

• Zanzi Homes

• Simon Mamo Real Estate

• Dhalia Real Estate Services

These companies offer listings both online and through in-person agents, and many cater specifically to expats. Be cautious of listings on social media, as not all are regulated — always verify the legitimacy before sending any money

Public transport in Malta is primarily run by a nationwide bus system operated by Malta Public Transport, and it covers most areas on both Malta and Gozo islands. Buses are affordable and frequent on major routes, especially in urban zones like Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, but can be less reliable in rural areas or during peak tourist seasons. The Tallinja card offers discounted fares for residents, students, and senior citizens, and as of recent years, standard bus travel for Maltese residents is free of charge.

Ride-hailing apps like Bolt, Uber and eCabs, help fill the gaps that the busses cannot fill. Although the system is improving, delays, overcrowding, and limited night service are still common complaints, so some residents opt for scooters or small cars for more convenience.

Supermarkets and food shops in Malta are widely available and cater to a range of budgets and preferences, from local produce to international brands. Major chains include Lidl, known for its affordable prices and weekly specials; PAVI and PAMA, which offer large hypermarket-style shopping experiences; and Welbee’s and Greens, which stock a good variety of local and imported goods. Smaller convenience stores and corner shops are common in every town and often open late.

Online grocery delivery is increasingly popular too, with options like Wolt, Bolt Market, and supermarket apps providing added convenience.

Drinking water in Malta is safe and treated, but it’s mostly sourced from desalinated seawater and underground reservoirs, which can give it a slightly salty or mineral-heavy taste. While it's fine for cooking and brushing teeth, many locals and expats prefer bottled water for drinking due to the taste and occasional concerns about old building plumbing. Bottled water is widely available and relatively cheap, and many households use water delivery services or refillable water dispensers (H2Only and Ecopure being the leading companies in this service). Some residents also install filter systems or reverse osmosis units at home to improve water quality and reduce plastic use. Overall, while tap water is potable, it's not always the most pleasant to drink straight from the tap.

Waste management in Malta is handled by local councils and coordinated by the national agency WasteServ, with a system that includes household collection, recycling, and civic amenity sites. Residents are expected to separate their waste into organic (green bag), recyclable (grey/clear bag), mixed waste (black bag), and glass.

The schedule is:

• Monday: Organic Waste.

• Tuesday: Mixed Waste.

• Wednesday: Organic Waste.

• Thursday: Recyclable Waste.

• Friday: Organic Waste.

• Saturday: Mixed Waste.

• Sunday: No Collection.

Glass collection is every first and third Friday of a month.

Many supermarkets also have recycling bins for drinking bottles and cans, with each bottle and can refund paying out 10 cents. The voucher printed out for the recycling can be used inside the same supermarket to discount the final purchase of your groceries by the total amount paid out from your recycled goods.

Internet and mobile services in Malta are generally reliable and widely available, with good coverage across both Malta and Gozo. The country has several main providers, including Melita, GO, and Epic, all offering broadband, mobile plans, and bundled TV or landline packages. Internet speeds are decent, with fiber connections available in most urban areas, and mobile data coverage is strong, even in more remote locations. Prepaid SIM cards are easy to purchase with just a passport, making it convenient for newcomers or short-term residents. Monthly mobile plans typically include generous data allowances and EU roaming.

The advantage of a Maltese mobile package is that it is generally cheaper than other EU countries, and because of the EU roaming laws, you can use your Maltese sim card, number and data in any other EU country with no additional charge.