Moving from Australia to Malta

Happy New Year to you and yours too!
In my experience, before we moved here from the UK, I went into my branch of HSBC in London and asked about setting up a Bank account with them before we moved to Malta as I knew they had them here and there and the Nw Bank Acc Manager advised me that HSBC in UK has absolutely nothing to do with the HSBC in Malta, she said that it was a different franchise and me setting up an account at home wouldn't be any help as they had nothing to do with each other! I was surprised but it may not be the same for you in Australia, so just check 😊

Frank Salt is reputable, but in my experience with them and an awful lot of letting agents is that what you view online, the houses and apartments etc....well, they don't have them to offer! Its quite misleading.  But its a lot easier once you're here to find a home. We arrived in October a couple of months ago with our son and our two air freighted cats! To stay in a holiday maisonette for 3/4 weeks and got more familiar with everything ( we knew the country fairly well, but its not the same as actually living here ha!) then we finally found our home after viewing about six places! I originally wanted a house but when I viewed the apartment we are in, I knew it was the right one and its proved to be fantastic so far plus our neighbours are so lovely and welcoming and now the local shop keepers know our names and chat to us too...which never occurred back home!
Wishing you much luck and joy for your eventual move!
Debs 😁

Hey Debs,

Thanks for your reply and kind wishes.  Yes, will call HSBC first to see, tried yesterday though was public holiday here.  I am sure I will be able to do something before I move, may just take a few extra phone calls to different people.

As for accommodation, good to hear you found somewhere nice.  Do you mind if I ask where in Malta you are living and what the surrounding area is like?  I have looked at more rentals and it seems like a bit much to commit to without seeing it first hand like you say.  I think I will instead use Airbnb for the first month or two until I find something I like.. less commitment initially and will be staying with someone local so will get a better insight into the area.  I also have relatives I could stay with as well, though am hoping to set myself up without needing to trouble them.

I am also hoping to get permanent work before I head over, though from what I have read that may be difficult too. I will try for a couple of months, if not successful will most likely come over anyway for a few months for a better look. I may have to pick up something casual initially, though that would not be too bad.  I currently work in IT, though am known to wear different hats when needed so not fixed on just doing IT work. 

Last time I was in Malta was 15 years ago and it was winter, so will be a nice change to come in the warmer months.

Cheers,
VJS