Over the past few weeks, we’ve looked at why Malta is attracting more South Africans, from its tax environment and residency options to the opportunities available for families and businesses.

But sometimes the best perspective comes from the people who have actually made the move.

We spoke to South Africans who relocated their families to Malta, as well as a business owner who chose Malta as a base for their company.

Moving for family and a different future

For one family who relocated from South Africa in 2019, the decision came down to creating a safer and more secure future for their children.

After experiencing a traumatic home robbery and growing concerns about the economic climate, they began questioning what the future might look like for their family.

Malta first came onto their radar through a friend already living on the island. After visiting, a job opportunity followed and, within just six weeks, they had packed up their lives and relocated.

What attracted them was the combination of safety, opportunity, an English-speaking environment, Mediterranean lifestyle and access to Europe.

Another South African family had a similar experience after one partner was offered a job in Malta.

They visited before making the move and said one thing immediately stood out: the freedom children have here.

For both families, leaving loved ones and starting again in another country was one of the hardest parts.

But having friends and a growing South African community in Malta helped make settling in easier.

Today, some of the things they value most are the sense of safety, the schools, the community and the ability for their children to enjoy more independence.

Their advice to anyone considering the move?

Do your homework, speak to people already living here and be prepared for the emotional side of immigration as well as the practical one.

And what about moving a business?

For the South African business owner we spoke to, Malta offered a different kind of opportunity.

The combination of a favourable tax environment, English-speaking business community and access to European markets made Malta an attractive base from which to operate and expand.

They also highlighted how important it is to have the right support when establishing a company.

With the right service provider, they found the company formation process straightforward, including the necessary VAT and PAYE registrations.

Their advice to other South African business owners considering Malta was simple:

Do your homework, ask the right questions and work with the right people to guide you through the process.

Different reasons, one destination

Every relocation story is different.

For some, Malta represents greater freedom and security for their family. For others, it offers a strategic base from which to build and grow an international business.

But one theme came through clearly in all three conversations:

Making the move is a big decision but having the right information and support can make all the difference.

If you are considering Malta for yourself, your family or your business, contact us to discuss the options available to you.

If you would like to hear directly from a South African already living or doing business in Malta, we can help make that introduction: Contact us.