How Much Can a Third Country National (TCN) Save in Malta?

Malta has become a popular destination for workers from outside the EU, including Nepali workers, Indian workers, and other Asian nationals. Many TCNs come here to earn a better income and send money home. But the big question is:

“How much can you actually save while living and working in Malta as a TCN?”

In this blog, we break down salaries, living expenses, overtime, and realistic savings so you can plan your finances effectively.

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1. Typical Salary for TCNs in Malta

Most TCNs working in Malta earn a salary depending on their job type:

• Entry-level / low-skilled jobs: €925 – €1,100 gross per month

• Net salary after tax & deductions: €850 – €1,150 per month

• Higher-skilled jobs (SEI / KEI permits): €2,000 – €3,000+ net per month

Your savings potential depends heavily on which category your job falls into.

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2. Monthly Living Expenses in Malta

The cost of living in Malta can be high, so most TCNs share accommodation to save money. Typical monthly expenses include:

Expense	Cost (€)
Shared room rent	250 – 400
Food & groceries	200 – 300
Transport & mobile	50 – 100
Miscellaneous	50 – 100

Total monthly expenses: €550 – €900

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3. Savings Based on Salary Level

Average TCN Job (€1,100 Net)

• Net salary: €1,100

• Monthly expenses: €700

• Overtime (optional): €100 – €200 extra

Monthly savings: €400 – €600
Yearly savings: €4,800 – €7,200

With Overtime / Extra Hours

• Net salary: €1,300 – €1,500

• Expenses: €750

• Overtime pay: €150 – €300 extra depending on shifts

Monthly savings: €550 – €1,050
Yearly savings: €6,600 – €12,600

Skilled Workers (SEI / KEI)

• Net salary: €2,000 – €3,000+

• Expenses: €900 – €1,100

• Overtime: Often limited but can add €200 – €500 extra

Monthly savings: €1,000 – €2,400
Yearly savings: €12,000 – €28,800+

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4. Tips to Increase Savings

• Share a room or apartment instead of living alone

• Cook at home instead of eating out

• Take overtime or night shifts if possible

• Avoid unnecessary shopping, travel, or entertainment expenses

• Upgrade skills to get higher-paying jobs

• Change jobs legally for better salaries

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5. Factors That Reduce Savings

• Renting a studio or apartment alone (€700+)

• Eating outside frequently

• Supporting family members in Malta

• High remittance pressure

• Unpaid overtime or illegal contracts

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6. Realistic Expectations

Malta is not a place to get rich quickly, but it offers steady income and the opportunity to save gradually. Most TCNs can save:

• €300 – €500 per month at average jobs

• €500 – €1,050 per month with overtime or extra work

• €1,000+ per month for skilled workers

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7. Final Advice

If your goal is:

• Family support or loan repayment: You need careful budgeting.

• Saving for future investments or business in home country: Upgrade skills and change jobs legally for higher salaries.

Proper planning, disciplined spending, and working overtime when possible make Malta a good place for long-term savings, even on an average TCN salary.

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📌 This guide is intended for Nepali and other TCN workers planning to work and live in Malta. Always check your employment contract, salary structure, overtime rules, and living costs before making decisions.