Malta is a small Mediterranean country with a rich and fascinating linguistic identity. If you are an expat, student, or future resident, one of the first questions you will likely ask is: what language is spoken in Malta? Understanding the language spoken in Malta is essential for daily life, education, work, and social integration. Despite […]
Malta is a small Mediterranean country with a rich and fascinating linguistic identity. If you are an expat, student, or future resident, one of the first questions you will likely ask is: what language is spoken in Malta? Understanding the language spoken in Malta is essential for daily life, education, work, and social integration.
Despite its size, Malta has a unique language mix shaped by centuries of history, migration, and international influence. This guide explains Malta’s official languages, commonly spoken languages, cultural context, and why learning them can open doors—especially if you plan to live, study, or work there.
The language spoken in Malta reflects the island’s diverse past. Malta has two official languages:
Maltese
English
Both languages are used in government, education, media, and business. However, Maltese holds a special cultural status as the national language, while English plays a vital international and professional role.
Because of this bilingual environment, Malta is often seen as one of the most language-accessible countries in Europe for foreigners.
Maltese (Malti) is the national language and one of the two official languages spoken in Malta.
Key facts about Maltese:
It is the only Semitic language in the European Union
Written using the Latin alphabet
Influenced by Arabic, Italian, Sicilian, French, and English
Spoken by the vast majority of the Maltese population
Maltese developed from Arabic dialects during Arab rule but evolved independently over centuries. Today, it represents Maltese identity, culture, and heritage.
You will hear Maltese spoken:
At home
In local communities
On radio and television
In informal social settings
For cultural and social integration, learning Maltese is highly recommended. You can explore professional Maltese courses through Lingua Learn Malta – Maltese for Adults to build real-life communication skills.
English is the second official language spoken in Malta, introduced during British rule (1800–1964).
English is commonly used in:
Education (many schools teach primarily in English)
Government documents
Business and international companies
Tourism and hospitality
Media and advertising
Most Maltese people are fluent or highly proficient in English, making Malta an attractive destination for expats, international students, and digital nomads.
If you want to strengthen your professional or academic English, structured programs such as English courses at Lingua Learn Malta can help you succeed in Malta’s bilingual environment.
Malta’s bilingualism is not accidental. It reflects centuries of foreign rule and international trade.
Historical influences include:
Arab rule → foundation of the Maltese language
Italian and Sicilian influence → vocabulary and culture
British rule → English education and administration
Today, Maltese and English coexist naturally. Most residents switch between both languages depending on context, often within the same conversation.
Although the language spoken in Malta officially includes Maltese and English, you may also hear other languages regularly.
Widely understood
Frequently watched on Italian TV channels
Historically influential before British rule
Malta is home to many international residents who speak:
French
Spanish
German
Arabic
Filipino languages
Eastern European languages
This multilingual environment makes Malta culturally diverse and welcoming.
This depends on your goals.
Integrate into local culture
Communicate with locals in daily life
Show respect for Maltese identity
Improve long-term residency experiences
Work in international companies
Study at Maltese institutions
Communicate easily from day one
Advance your global career
Ideally, learning both languages gives you the best experience in Malta.
Many schools use English as the main teaching language
Maltese is taught as a subject
Universities operate largely in English
English dominates professional settings
Maltese is common in local businesses
Customer-facing roles often require both
This bilingual system makes Malta especially attractive to international students and professionals.
Maltese is more than communication—it represents national pride.
You’ll encounter Maltese in:
Local festivals
Traditional music and poetry
Village life
Political speeches
According to trusted linguistic sources like Britannica, Maltese is unique due to its Semitic roots combined with European vocabulary, making it linguistically rare and culturally significant.
For cultural insights and travel information, the official tourism authority Visit Malta offers valuable resources about local traditions and language use.
Learning the language spoken in Malta offers many advantages:
Better job opportunities
Easier social integration
Deeper cultural understanding
Stronger local connections
Improved confidence in daily life
Whether you start with Maltese, English, or both, structured learning makes a real difference.
The main language spoken in Malta is Maltese, with English as a second official language.
Yes, most Maltese people speak English fluently, especially in cities, schools, and workplaces.
Maltese can be challenging due to its Semitic roots, but structured courses make it very manageable for beginners.
Yes, many expats live comfortably using only English, though learning Maltese improves integration.
You can take professional courses through Lingua Learn, which offers flexible programs for adults.
So, what language is spoken in Malta? The answer reflects Malta’s rich history and global outlook. Maltese and English are both official, widely used, and essential for daily life. This bilingual environment makes Malta unique, welcoming, and ideal for expats and students.
Understanding and learning the language spoken in Malta will help you feel at home faster, communicate confidently, and fully enjoy Maltese culture.
Ready to start your language journey in Malta?
Whether you want to master Maltese for cultural connection or improve English for work and study, Lingua Learn offers expert-led courses tailored for adults and expats.
👉 Start learning today with Lingua Learn and unlock your full Maltese experience.