Money & budgeting
Malta uses the euro (€). Plan for rent, deposits, food, utilities, mobile data, study materials and journeys outside the free transport scheme. Ask which bills are included in your rent.
Life in Malta
Your next chapter, beyond the classroom.
A practical starting guide to getting around, settling in and making student life in Malta feel more familiar.
Your tallinja transport card.
A personalised tallinja card carries your name and photo. Eligible cardholders can use regular day and night buses and specified special services free of charge. Tap your own card every time you board. Tallinja Direct and On Demand services are excluded from the free scheme.
01
Check the card category
The Student category covers ages 11–16. Students aged 17 and over need proof of a full-time course at a recognised Maltese institution lasting more than three months. Check the operator’s terms for your category.
02
Prepare your details
Have your identity document or passport, a suitable passport-style photo, contact information and delivery address ready. Student applicants also need proof of attendance / course registration.
03
Apply through the official website
Complete the Malta Public Transport form, select your institution and upload the requested documents. Review the current application and delivery charges before confirming; temporary promotions can change.
04
Plan your first journeys
Use the official journey planner and tallinja app to check routes and service alerts. Budget for tickets while you wait for your card. Keep your card for your own use and check which services are included before travelling.
Application checklist: official registration form. Do not send identity documents through the Global Nexus enquiry form.
Make the unfamiliar manageable.
Before you arrive
Confirm your accommodation address and arrival arrangements. Keep admission, travel, accommodation and insurance documents together, with secure copies.
Check in with your college
Find the international / student-support office, confirm orientation and your class location, and request your student or enrolment letter.
Check your accommodation
Read the agreement, understand the deposit and utility charges, keep receipts and ask about the lease registration where applicable. Check the Housing Authority’s official information.
Plan the commute
Test your route to campus, allow time for transfers and check service alerts rather than relying on an old timetable.
Organise your documents
Ask your college which residence / visa steps apply to your nationality, course and length of stay. Follow Identità’s official instructions and keep track of your own expiry dates.
Build a simple routine
Find nearby groceries, compare mobile plans, set a weekly budget and save your college support contacts. Take time to meet your classmates.
The small things that help.
Language & power
Maltese and English are official languages. Electricity is supplied at 230V / 50Hz, with UK-style three-pin sockets. Pack a suitable adaptor and check your appliance’s voltage rating.
Staying connected
Compare local SIM / eSIM plans against your existing roaming allowance. Check coverage, data limits and cancellation terms before committing to a contract.
Support & emergencies
Save your college’s support contact. For an emergency requiring police, ambulance or fire services, call 112. Keep your insurance and address details accessible.
Go straight to the source.
Malta Public Transport & journey plannerIdentità — study residence informationHousing Authority — rent registrationUniversity of Malta — practical informationMalta Police — emergency services
This guide offers a starting point for daily life. Your institution and the relevant authority can confirm the requirements that apply to your circumstances.
A question about your Malta study plans?
Talk to the Global Nexus team before your next step.