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esRenting in Malta as a foreigner (2026): costs, deposit, contract and agency fee
By Steven Aumaitre, co-founder · Updated October 2026
Renting a flat in Malta is quick once you know the rules. This guide covers what you pay on signing day, what the law says, which documents you need, and how to rent before you even land, with rents by area taken live from our listings.
How much does it cost to rent a flat in Malta?
Rents depend mostly on the area. The seafront towns around Sliema, St Julian’s and Gzira are the most in demand, while the south and the north are quieter and often cheaper. Below are the areas with the most properties for rent right now, with the number of listings and the lowest current rent.
- Sliema108 listings · from €920/month
- Gzira73 listings · from €850/month
- St Julian's63 listings · from €750/month
- Swieqi46 listings · from €1,300/month
- Msida45 listings · from €990/month
- Mellieha36 listings · from €850/month
- Marsaskala33 listings · from €850/month
- St Paul's Bay32 listings · from €850/month
Live figures from our listings, updated every hour. See all properties for rent
How much do you pay when you sign a lease in Malta?
On signing day you normally pay the first month of rent in advance, a deposit of about one month, and the agency fee of 50% of one month’s rent plus 18% VAT. In total, plan for about 2.6 months of rent.
| Item | Months of rent | Example (rent €1,200) |
|---|---|---|
| First month of rent, in advance | 1 | €1,200 |
| Deposit (refundable) | ≈ 1 | €1,200 |
| Agency fee: 50% of one month + 18% VAT | 0.59 | €708 |
| Total at signing | ≈ 2.6 | €3,108 |
The deposit can vary by landlord. The agency fee is paid once, for the whole lease.
How does the deposit work in Malta?
The deposit is usually one month’s rent. It is refunded at the end of the lease, minus any unpaid bills or damage beyond normal wear. When the lease is registered, you can bring a deposit dispute to the Housing Authority Adjudicating Panel.
Take dated photos of the property on the day you move in and keep them: they are the simplest proof of its condition.
What does the law say about renting in Malta?
Residential rentals are governed by the Private Residential Leases Act (Chapter 604 of the Laws of Malta). A long let lasts at least 12 months. A short let lasts at most 6 months and needs a reason stated in the contract, such as work, study or medical treatment.
Every residential lease must be registered with the Housing Authority. Registration is normally done by the landlord. A registered lease protects you: it gives you access to the Adjudicating Panel and is often asked for by other administrations.
Are water and electricity included in the rent?
Usually not. Water and electricity are billed by ARMS, the national utilities billing company, according to the meter readings. Ask whether the property can be on the residential tariff, which is cheaper than the standard rate, and check who receives the bills.
Which documents do you need to rent in Malta?
An ID card or passport, proof of income or employment (a contract or recent payslips), or proof of enrolment for students. Some landlords also ask for references from a previous landlord or employer.
Can you rent a flat in Malta before arriving?
Yes. If you cannot come in person, we organise a live video viewing where you choose what to see, send you the contract to sign digitally, and arrange the key handover on the day you arrive. Payment is made once the contract is agreed.