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Malta is a tiny archipelago in the middle of the clear blue Mediterranean Sea, some 60 miles south of Sicily. It consists of Malta, Gozo and Comino. Malta is 95 square miles, Gozo is smaller at 26 square miles and Comino is barely over a mile square.

The Island has strong links with the UK. It has always been a popular destination for individuals from over here and it’s not hard to see why. English is widely spoken, driving is on the left, medical care is top class and most important of all, the Maltese are a welcoming and friendly people who will help you settle easily on their island home.

Through its long and colourful history, the islanders have come into contact with numerous ruling nations all of which have contributed to Malta being an historical oasis. Despite its history, the Maltese have remained steadfastly independent, proud of their cultural roots yet hospitable to visitors.

Malta is an island of contrasts, which is all the more interesting when you take into account its tiny size. From Neolithic temples to 5-star hotels, from imposing fortifications to yacht marinas, from tiny cafes to top class restaurants, the island has it all. Life can be as lively or as laid back as you wish it to be, as sophisticated or as rustic as you choose.

Malta’s climate is warm and healthy, with mild winters and dry hot summers. No frost or snow and that’s a promise. Temperatures between November and April average around 15 degrees C with temperatures between May and October averaging around 23 degrees C.

Retire to Malta

As you get older, you will quite naturally be concerned about healthcare. Well you need not worry. Medical services on the Island are excellent. A survey carried out in 2000 by the World Heath Organisation ranked Malta’s health system 5th in the world (incidentally the UK came in at 18th). Medical services are easily accessible with many of the specialist having obtained their post graduate training in the UK. EU citizens resident in the UK are entitled to free public health care in accordance with entitlements as determined by the Ministry of Health.

You may also be concerned about making a new circle of friends. A good place to start will be the British Residents Association. The BRA has a full diary of events, ranging from coffee mornings, lunches and visits to places of interest. It also has a strong welfare support system, keeping members abreast of important information, and services available.

If sport is your thing, again you have a wide choice on the Islands. Everything from a leisurely swim in the crystal clear Mediterranean to golf and tennis at the Marsa Sports Club is on hand.

Becoming a permanent resident in Malta

If you are thinking of taking up permanent residence, you will need a certificate from the Maltese Inland Revenue Department. The certificate is issued for an indefinite period and holders may enter and leave the Island as required. To qualify for the scheme, residents must satisfy certain criteria which include owning worldwide capital of at least €349,406 or having an income of at least €23,294 per annum. The permit holder is also required to remit at least €13,976 per annum plus €2,329 for each dependent (including a spouse) into Malta. Furthermore, a holder of a Resident Scheme Certificate is required to purchase or lease property having minimum values of €69,881 for apartments, €116,469 for a house or if the property is rented, then the rent must be at least €4,193 per annum.

A low flat rate of income tax of 15% prevails with a minimum tax liability of €4,193 after double taxation relief. Tax is calculated on income and capital gains arising in Malta and on foreign income remitted to Malta. Malta’s tax legislation provides for relief from double taxation. There is no inheritance tax in Malta, but in the event of death, a beneficiary is liable to 5% transfer tax on property transferred. If jointly owned, the tax is levied on half the value of the property.

As someone who has had the privilege of growing up in Malta and despite having lived in the UK for some 30-years, I find the draw of the Island is irresistible. I return each year to catch up with friends and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the place. If you would like to find out more, then visit my website www.luvmalta.co.uk or call me on 07702 668 620 (I will call you back straight away). I would be happy to assist you in the process of finding out why I think Malta is an ideal home from home for the British and perhaps you too will be captured by its charm.

Derek Wells

More information
Contact Derek Wells - 07702 668 620
www.luvmalta.co.uk

NB: Information given in this article is believed to be correct at
time of publication - September 2010.