Complete Guide to Malta: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
Your ultimate 2025 Complete Guide to Malta – the Mediterranean jewel of baroque cities and turquoise lagoons. Enjoy 90-day visa-free entry (Schengen), explore Valletta's UNESCO streets, swim in the Blue Lagoon, and dive ancient shipwrecks. Discover the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (€150K contribution + property) for lifelong EU residency, grasp the vibrant economy under Prime Minister Robert Abela, and savour pastizzi and rabbit stew. This detailed guide covers everything: top destinations, practical tips, and aviation insights for seamless Malta travel and business.
Introduction to Malta
Malta, with 525,000 warm-hearted islanders, is a sun-drenched archipelago of three inhabited islands — home to 7,000 years of history (oldest free-standing temples), Knights of St. John fortresses, and crystal-clear waters. In 2025 it attracts 3+ million visitors while leading in iGaming and fintech. This guide covers visa-free ease, the popular €150K Permanent Residency Programme, and must-sees like Comino’s Blue Lagoon for unforgettable Malta travel.
Malta Independence Date
September 21, 1964 – independence from Britain. Celebrated with fireworks, regatta races in Grand Harbour, and national pride.
How to Apply for Malta Visa – 90 Days Visa-Free
Full Schengen member → 90 days visa-free in any 180-day period for citizens of USA, EU, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, etc. ETIAS (€7 online) required from mid-2025. For longer stays: Permanent Residency Programme or D-visa.
Malta Permanent Residency Programme 2025
• €150,000 government contribution (€100K non-refundable + €50K admin)
• Property purchase €300K–€350K or rental €10K–€12K/year
→ Permanent residency status (lifetime). Entire family included. No minimum stay requirement.
Top Places to Visit in Malta
- Valletta – UNESCO baroque capital, Upper Barrakka Gardens
- Mdina – Silent City, medieval walls
- Blue Lagoon – Comino crystal waters
- Gozo – Ġgantija Temples (oldest in world), Dwejra
- Popeye Village – Film set turned theme park
- Marsaxlokk – Colourful fishing village market
- Hagar Qim & Mnajdra – Megalithic temples (UNESCO)
- St. John's Co-Cathedral – Caravaggio masterpiece
Economic Activities & 2025 Outlook
Nominal GDP ≈ €22 billion, 4.2% growth forecast. Key sectors: tourism (30% GDP), iGaming, fintech, film industry, EU funds.
How to Buy a SIM Card in Malta
GO, Epic, Melita at Malta International Airport and every town. €10–15 starter pack with 20–50 GB data. Passport required for registration.
Who Leads Malta?
Prime Minister: Robert Abela (Labour Party, since January 2020). President: Myriam Spiteri Debono (ceremonial).
Political Status
Parliamentary republic, full EU/Schengen member. Labour government focused on economic diversification and sustainability.
Aviation Services in Malta
Malta International (MLA) hub. Air Malta successor KM Malta Airlines. Medevac via REVA Europe. Scenic helicopter flights over Blue Lagoon and Valletta harbour.
Culture, Pastizzi & Festivals
Pastizzi (pea/ricotta pastries), rabbit stew, festa fireworks. Festivals: Valletta Baroque (Jan), Carnival (Feb), village festas (summer).
Safety & Practical Tips
Very safe – one of Europe’s lowest crime rates. English official language. Euro currency. Excellent buses and ferries.
Plan Your Malta Journey
From baroque streets to turquoise lagoons, Malta enchants. KiliFlying Air offers seamless charter flights and scenic aerial tours across the Mediterranean.
Contact: +255 744 303 141 or message us