According to the latest data from the National Statistics Office Malta (NSO), October 2025 saw an impressive 17.3 % increase in inbound tourists compared with October 2024. In that month alone, 417,103 tourists arrived, spending a total of 2.56 million nights on the islands and contributing €437.8 million in expenditure — up 22.8% year-on-year.
From January to October 2025, inbound tourists reached nearly 3.49 million, with total nights spent reaching 22.2 million. Tourist expenditure over the first ten months of the year was estimated at €3.47 billion.
The tourism boom isn’t limited to the main island of Malta. According to the NSO, of the visitors in 2025, a significant share — including both overnight and same-day visitors — went to Gozo (and the smaller island of Comino).
Why tourism matters — to the islands and the economy
Tourism is more than just an occasional economic boost for Malta; it’s one of the key pillars of the national economy. Many sources estimate that the tourism and hospitality sector (directly and indirectly) contributes around 15 – 30% of Malta’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The sector also supports a substantial portion of local employment.
Beyond hotels, restaurants and tour operators, tourism underpins many related industries — from agriculture and fishing (supplying fresh food), to laundries (washing hotel linens), to retail, transport and local crafts. The influx of tourist spending enables investments in infrastructure and services that benefit residents too — supporting health, education, social services, and improved public amenities.
More than a Vacation: Malta as home.
While tourism continues to drive growth, Malta’s allure extends beyond beaches, sunshine and sightseeing. For many — locals and newcomers alike — the islands offer a potential permanent base: a place with robust services, job opportunities, and the quality of life. As the economy diversifies and the islands continue to adapt, Malta (and Gozo) increasingly stand out as more than just a holiday destination — but as a real alternative for long-term living, a “Plan B” for those seeking stability, community, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
The combination of Mediterranean climate, cultural richness, and economic opportunity through tourism and related sectors gives the islands a broad appeal.
Temporary and Permanent Residence & Relocation Options in Malta
For those considering Malta as more than a holiday destination, the islands offer several attractive residence pathways designed for international investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking long-term stability in the EU.
- Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
The MPRP is a residency-by-investment pathway that grants permanent residency rights to non-EU nationals through a combination of government contributions, real estate commitments, and due diligence requirements. It allows successful applicants and their families to reside indefinitely in Malta while enjoying visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. - Global Residence Programme (GRP) and the Residence Programme (TRP)
The GRP (for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals) and TRP (for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals) residence programs offer a special tax status with a favourable 15% flat tax rate on foreign income remitted to Malta, subject to a minimum annual tax of €15,000 per family. Applicants are required to rent or purchase qualifying property and demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. These programmes are ideal for entrepreneurs, retirees, remote professionals, and globally mobile individuals seeking a flexible residence and favourable tax framework in the EU. - Malta Startup Residence Programme (MSRP)
Designed for innovative entrepreneurs and early-stage founders, this programme offers residency for up to three years (with extensions available) to those establishing, operating, or expanding a startup in Malta. It provides not only residency rights but also access to Malta’s supportive growing ecosystem for digital, tech, biotech, and green-sector ventures.
How Vertex Alliance Supports Investors and Families
Vertex Alliance specialises in guiding international clients through the full range of Malta’s investment migration options. Whether an applicant’s goals are permanent or flexible residency, tax optimisation, or launching an EU-based startup, Vertex Alliance evaluates personal circumstances and recommends the pathway best suited to each individual or family.
Our end-to-end support — from document preparation to application handling, property guidance, and local integration — helps investors navigate Malta’s residence programmes smoothly and confidently. Get in touch with us. info@valtd.com.
Watch this short video clip showcasing the breath taking landscapes and vibrant culture of Malta and Gozo:
