Malta (MT)
Malta is a small EU island nation in the central Mediterranean — the smallest EU member state by area — celebrated for its extraordinary concentration of history (the Knights of St John, ancient megalithic temples older than Stonehenge), warm climate of 300+ sunshine days per year, English as a co-official language making it uniquely accessible for anglophone expats, a thriving iGaming and fintech sector, and a strategic location halfway between Europe and North Africa.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Malta.
Denominations
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500.
Payment Culture
Malta is increasingly cashless but still more cash-reliant than northern Europe. Card payments are accepted at most restaurants, shops, and petrol stations. Contactless (tap) is standard. Revolut and Wise are extremely popular among expats and locals alike for everyday spending and international transfers. Cash is still used at markets, small family-run restaurants, and older businesses. There is no uniquely Maltese payment app — Revolut dominates peer-to-peer transfers among expats.
ATM Tips
ATMs are widely available in Valletta, Sliema, St Julian's, and major towns. BOV (Bank of Valletta) and HSBC Malta ATMs are most common. Foreign card fees of €2–5 per withdrawal are common. Avoid airport exchange counters for currency exchange — use Revolut or Wise for international money.
Exchange Tips
Malta uses the Euro — no exchange needed from Eurozone. Non-Euro visitors: Revolut and Wise offer the best rates. Avoid hotel exchanges. For large transfers (e.g., property purchases), use a specialist FX broker rather than your bank.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents