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Why Malta Is the Smart Choice for Residency, Investment & Legacy

Are you looking for a sunny, secure, and strategic destination to live, invest, or simply enjoy life? Whether you’re planning a permanent move, exploring a “Plan B,” or just dreaming of a Mediterranean lifestyle, Malta has a compelling story, and it could soon be yours.

Why Malta?

Imagine a place where 300 days of sunshine meet a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant social atmosphere. A place where you can enjoy world-class healthcare, English-speaking communities, and excellent international education for your children. That’s Malta – a destination that ticks every box for lifestyle, security, and investment.

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is more than just a pretty coastline. It boasts a robust and diversified economy, with thriving sectors in finance, tourism, iGaming, film production, and technology. Innovation is encouraged, business is supported, and opportunity abounds.

Your Story Starts Here

Whether you’re looking for peace of mind, financial growth, or a lasting legacy for your family, Malta offers flexible pathways tailored to your needs:

Residency: A Strategic Step Forward

Malta’s residency and citizenship by investment programs are among the most streamlined in the EU. They provide:

  • A well-regulated and straightforward application process

  • Access to the Schengen Zone

  • Global mobility

  • Long-term personal and financial security

These programs are especially popular with South African nationals seeking an EU base without renouncing their current citizenship.

Invest: Make Malta Work for You

With its tax-efficient framework and access to over 70 double taxation treaties, Malta is a prime destination for investors. Benefits include:

  • Hassle-free property investment with no local council taxes

  • Low maintenance costs

  • Opportunities across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors

As a stable and transparent jurisdiction, Malta also offers peace of mind for those protecting their wealth.

Legacy: A Future Like No Other

Malta isn’t just a place to invest or reside—it’s a place to belong. Families enjoy:

  • A welcoming lifestyle that values culture, community, and personal freedom

  • A secure jurisdiction with no inheritance tax

  • An exceptional quality of life for future generations

Create a legacy rooted in sunshine, security, and smart living.

Let’s Start Your Journey

Whether you’re exploring residency, investing in property, or planning for the next chapter of your life, MaltaLifestyle is here to guide you every step of the way.

📍 Visit: www.maltalifestyle.com
📱 WhatsApp us: Click here
📩 Email: merle@maltalifestyle.com

General Information

Thinking of Moving to Malta? See It for Yourself! 🇲🇹

If you’ve ever dreamt of living by the Mediterranean, surrounded by centuries of history, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant lifestyle, Malta might be calling your name. This island isn’t just a picturesque escape- it’s a smart choice for those looking to live, invest, and thrive in Europe.

Why Malta?

Malta offers more than sun and sea. With its rich cultural heritage, world-class diving spots, and dynamic property market, the island presents exciting opportunities for retirees, investors, and families alike. Whether you’re strolling through the cobbled streets of Mdina or enjoying a beachside aperitif in Sliema, Malta delivers a lifestyle that blends leisure with long-term value.

Planning a Visit?

There’s no better way to decide if Malta is right for you than to experience it firsthand. At MaltaLifestyle, we offer personalised property tours and relocation consultations designed around your goals. Whether you’re curious about investing in real estate, exploring retirement options, or relocating your family, we’ll help you see Malta through the right lens—with local insights and trusted advice every step of the way.

✨ For inspiration, have a look at this feature by National Geographic highlighting why Malta stands out on the global stage.

Ready to explore Malta your way?

📲 WhatsApp: (+27) 82 574 4661
📧 Email: merle@maltalifestyle.com

Let’s start your journey to Malta – where your future feels like a holiday.

Business,  News

UK Tax Rule Changes for Non-Domiciled Residents – Time to Rethink Your Options?

If you’re a non-domiciled resident in the UK, there’s a major shift you need to know about.

As of 6 April 2025, the UK has updated its tax rules for non-doms. Under the new legislation, non-domiciled individuals are now taxed on their worldwide income based on residency — not just income earned in the UK or funds brought into the country.

This is a significant change that could impact expats, globally mobile professionals, and anyone using the remittance basis as part of their long-term tax planning.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’ve relied on the UK’s previous non-dom rules to optimise your tax exposure, it may be time to re-evaluate your residency and financial strategy. These changes could lead to higher tax liabilities and reduced flexibility when it comes to managing international income streams.

Is It Time to Consider a Smarter Base?

One increasingly popular alternative is Malta. An EU member state, English-speaking and highly tax-efficient, Malta offers a compelling combination of benefits:

  • No local council tax

  • Strong legal and financial frameworks

  • GMT+2 timezone — perfect for international business

  • Excellent air connectivity across Europe

  • Over 300 days of sunshine a year

Malta has long been a strategic choice for individuals seeking a balance between lifestyle, tax planning, and business opportunity.

Get Personalised Advice

Before making any decisions, it’s important to speak to a professional who understands the cross-border implications of these changes.

💬 Book a free 20-minute consultation with Merle-Louise Purvis Whale to explore your options in full confidence:
📅 Schedule a call
📱 Or message directly via WhatsApp: +27 82 574 4661

News

Tighter Rules for Italian Citizenship by Descent – What It Means and Why Malta is Gaining Appeal

Italy has announced significant changes to its citizenship by descent policy, potentially narrowing eligibility to those with a parent or grandparent born in Italy. For many individuals tracing their Italian roots through great-grandparents or earlier generations, this shift could close the door on acquiring EU citizenship through Italian lineage.

This change is particularly impactful for South Africans and other non-EU nationals who have been relying on ancestral links to gain European access and benefits. As the rules tighten, many are now looking to alternative paths—and Malta stands out as a highly attractive option.

With its own robust residency and citizenship programmes, Malta offers a reliable, strategic gateway into the European Union. Whether you’re seeking greater mobility, retirement in a Mediterranean climate, or investment opportunities, Malta provides an appealing blend of stability, lifestyle, and opportunity.

If you’re navigating these changes or considering a Plan B, the Dual U.S.-Italian Citizenship Facebook group is a great resource for insights and peer support. And of course, if Malta is on your radar, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Read the full article from CNN

#ItalianCitizenship #CitizenshipByDescent #Malta #EUResidency #RelocateToMalta #MaltaLifestyle

News

Malta Leads the Way in Teaching AI to Kids

Malta is taking a bold step towards future-ready education by introducing artificial intelligence (AI) lessons to primary school students. As part of its new Digital Education Strategy 2025–2030, Year 6 students—typically aged 10–11—will begin exploring AI tools like image generators, text-to-speech platforms, and smarter online searching. The goal? To build digital literacy from a young age and prepare the next generation to thrive in a tech-driven world.

The initiative doesn’t stop there. Even younger students in Year 4 will learn how to identify misinformation online, a vital skill in today’s information-heavy environment. Malta’s approach shows a clear commitment to equipping children with not just technical know-how, but also the critical thinking needed to navigate the digital age responsibly.

By weaving AI into everyday learning, Malta is positioning itself as a leader in digital education across Europe. With a forward-thinking strategy and a focus on real-world tools, the country is creating a dynamic environment where young minds can grow with the technologies shaping their future.

👉 Read the full article on Times of Malta

General Information

Home Again: Grateful Reflections on an Inspiring Trip to South Africa

Merle-Louise, founder of MaltaLifestyle, has returned home to Malta after an unforgettable and emotional trip to South Africa! 💙🇿🇦
It truly pulls at the heartstrings when traveling between the country of my birth and my chosen home on a different continent.
Thank you to all the amazing clients, friends, and family who made it so special. It was incredibly meaningful to reconnect with loved ones, meet new faces, and have heartfelt conversations about dreams, challenges, and opportunities.
Whether it was discussing offshore investments, hassle-free residency options with easy visa access, planning full relocations for a safer and more fulfilling life, retirement in comfort, or being closer to global family—I’m truly grateful for every conversation and the trust you’ve placed in me to guide you in making these dreams a reality.
Malta remains a convincing choice for those seeking global opportunities with local political and economic, simplified wealth protection for inheritance, and favourable tax and business structuring solutions. It was reassuring to find that South Africans are keen on Malta to meet their needs, and even more so are pleased about good weather and English-speaking European destination.
Feeling blessed and inspired—thank you for the love and support! 🇲🇹🌍
General Information

Why Malta is the Ultimate Destination for Unforgettable Events

If you’re planning a milestone celebration, corporate retreat, international conference, or a dream destination wedding, look no further than Malta. With its stunning Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality, Malta is an exceptional choice for events all year round.

A Climate That Celebrates With You

Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it one of the most weather-reliable event destinations in Europe. Whether you’re planning an elegant outdoor ceremony or a team-building retreat under the sun, Malta’s climate ensures your event will shine, literally.

So, Why Malta?

✅ Year-Round Sunshine – Ideal conditions for outdoor and indoor events, any season.
✅ Diverse & Unique Venues – From centuries-old fortresses and palazzos to sleek seaside resorts and vineyards.
✅ Global Connectivity – Easily accessible from most major international hubs.
✅ Exceptional Service – Maltese hospitality is warm, professional, and detail-oriented.
✅ Cultural Richness – Guests can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, charming villages, and vibrant local traditions.

Make it Memorable with MaltaLifestyle

At MaltaLifestyle, we specialise in helping South Africans and international clients plan meaningful, luxurious events in Malta. From intimate 50th or 60th birthdays, to full-scale corporate gatherings or weddings, we offer expert guidance and trusted local connections to make your vision a reality.

Let’s bring your next unforgettable event to life – stress-free and beautifully executed.

📞 WhatsApp: (+27) 82 574 4661
📧 Email: merle@maltalifestyle.com

Business

Citizen vs Resident – What You Need to Know

If you and considering options to broaden your opportunities whether it be across border mobility, better education and healthcare, or wealth diversification this may involve taking up alternative Residency or Citizenship. It is crucial to understand the diffrerences and more so the benefits, rights and responsibilities associated with each.

When discussing legal status in a country, the terms citizen vs residency should be carefully considered and although they sound similar they have distinct meanings and legal implications. Understanding the difference between being a citizen and a resident is crucial, especially when considering relocation or seeking new opportunities abroad.

Here we take a look at some key distinctions and hope to unlock the information to help you weigh up the options of residency versus citizenship.

What Is a Citizen?

A citizen is a person who has full rights and responsibilities in a country. Citizenship is typically acquired through birth within a country’s territory, descent from a citizen parent, or naturalization—a legal process that grants citizenship to a non-native individual.

Rights and Responsibilities of Citizens:

  • Voting Rights: Citizens have the right to vote in national elections, which gives them a voice in the country’s governance.
  • Passport: Citizens can apply for a national passport, allowing them to travel freely and access consular protection abroad.
  • Jury Duty: Citizens may be required to serve on a jury, contributing to the legal system.
  • Obligations: Citizens must comply with laws, including paying taxes and, in some countries, mandatory military service.

How to Become a Citizen:

  • Birth-right Citizenship: Some countries automatically grant citizenship to individuals born on their soil.
  • Descent: Citizenship can be passed down from parents to children.
  • Naturalization: This process usually involves residency for a specified period, demonstrating language proficiency, passing a citizenship test, and taking an oath of allegiance.

What Is a Resident?

A resident is a person who lives in a country but does not necessarily have the full rights of a citizen. Residency can be temporary or permanent, and it is typically acquired through a visa, such as a work, student, or family visa.

Types of Residency:

  • Temporary Residency: Allows individuals to live in a country for a limited period. Temporary residents often have restricted rights and need to renew their status periodically.
  • Permanent Residency: Grants more stability, allowing individuals to live indefinitely in the country. Permanent residents usually have more rights than temporary residents, such as the ability to work or study without additional permits, but they do not have all the rights of citizens, like voting in national elections.

How to Become a Resident:

  • Visa Applications: To obtain residency, one must apply for a visa based on employment, education, or family connections.
  • Residency Permits: Upon arrival, residents often need to register with local authorities and obtain a residency permit.

Key Differences Between Citizens and Residents:

While both citizens and residents live in a country, their rights and responsibilities differ significantly. Here are some of the key distinctions:

  • Voting Rights: Only citizens can vote in national elections. Residents may have voting rights in local elections, depending on the country’s laws.
  • Passports: Citizens are eligible for national passports, while residents may have to use a passport from their country of origin.
  • Legal Protections and Obligations: Citizens have broader legal protections and responsibilities, such as jury duty and, in some cases, military service.
  • Path to Citizenship: Residents may eventually become citizens through naturalization if they meet specific criteria, such as length of residency, language proficiency, and integration into the community.

 

Why the Difference Matters

Understanding the difference between citizenship and residency is essential for anyone considering living or working abroad. The decision to pursue citizenship or residency depends on personal goals, legal requirements, and the rights one wishes to acquire.

Knowing whether you should pursue citizenship or residency is crucial depending on your situation and long-term plans. Each status comes with its own set of rights, responsibilities, and opportunities, making it important to understand which best aligns with your personal goals.

 

Whilst this information is provided it must be reminded to check carefully the regulations according to your jurisdictions. If you’d like to discuss how a South African, British National or United States of American citizen can live in Europe contact Merle for a free consultation on merle@maltalifestyle.com.

News

South Africans in Malta Come Together to Celebrate Heritage Day

The South African community in Malta recently gathered for a heartwarming celebration of Heritage Day, an event that beautifully blends their rich cultural roots with their new lives on this picturesque island. Arranged by Merle Whale of MaltaLifestyle, the annual gathering offered a warm and inviting platform for South Africans to share their personal journeys of settling in Malta, highlighting both the challenges and the triumphs of adapting to a new environment.

Attendees expressed deep appreciation for the kindness and hospitality of the Maltese people, as well as the island’s idyllic weather and safe surroundings. Merle Whale, affectionately known as Aunty Merle, added a touch of humor to the event, saying, “Relocating is a personal choice, much like choosing between Bovril or Marmite—it’s not for everyone!” This sentiment resonated with many, capturing the essence of the community’s supportive spirit as they navigate their new lives together.

Heritage Day, also fondly referred to as ‘Braai Day,’ holds special significance as a public holiday in South Africa, celebrating the nation’s incredible cultural diversity. “It’s a day that invites all South Africans to honor their varied traditions,” Merle explained. “In Malta, we appreciate how complex the idea of heritage can be, especially in a melting pot of cultures like ours.”

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the day was the recognition that South African Heritage Day and Malta’s Independence Day are celebrated just days apart. “This shared timing strengthens the connection between our communities,” Merle noted. “It’s wonderful to see how our cultures can intertwine and enrich one another.”

Reflecting on Malta’s Independence Day, Merle highlighted the island’s rich history and its journey toward self-governance. “Malta’s Independence Day symbolizes the resilience of its people and the triumph over centuries of foreign domination,” she said. “It’s a powerful reminder of unity and strength—values that resonate deeply with us as South Africans.”

In addition to the celebrations, Merle announced an upcoming Information Day scheduled for Saturday, 2 November in Valletta. This initiative aims to provide the South African Family and Friends Abroad (SAFFAS) community with essential information about local legislation and obligations for South African passport holders living abroad. “We want to ensure our community stays informed and connected,” she emphasized.

This vibrant gathering was a beautiful reminder that even when far from home, the spirit of South Africa thrives among its people—united in their journey of building new lives while cherishing their heritage. It was especially heartwarming to see Maltese families joining the festivities, fostering new friendships and connections within the community.

News

Your Vote, Your Voice!

2024 is a significant year in history with the most ever recorded countries going to Vote! This includes South Africa, Europe, and our very own Malta, are all holding important elections. 🌍🇿🇦🇪🇺🇲🇹

Voting isn’t just a right—it’s our chance to shape the future.

When voting we get to contribute to choosing leaders and making decisions that help everyone. It’s a way to share our opinions and make sure everyone has a say in what happens in our community.

Every vote counts, helping to ensure our voices are heard and our values are represented. Whether it’s for local, national, or international leaders, your vote makes a difference. Let’s cherish our democratic privilege and make informed choices for a brighter tomorrow.

Democracy thrives when we all take part, every single vote matters in shaping our community and our future.

South Africans Abroad – fondly known as SAFFAS (South African Family and Friends Abroad) have been to the polls. Many of them travelling far and wide to get to the polls in the relevant jurisdictions.

📢 South African Election Day is this Wednesday 29th May! Find your polling place at https://www.elections.org.za/pw/

Be sure to gather all the necessary documents.

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