Malta

Summary

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, before travelling to Malta. You should check any exclusion, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Irish Citizens should note that the Irish Government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.

You should also obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) free of charge which entitles you to emergency medical treatment. This card is NOT a substitute for travel insurance. See www.ehic.ie for further details. The EHIC replaces the Form E111, which is no longer valid.

Safety and Security

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could also be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. 

Local Laws and Customs

The majority of the Maltese population speak English and it is a very westernised country.

Natural Disasters and Climate

Malta is not prone to natural disasters.  The climate is very warm and sunny as a general rule. It does rain in Malta between the end of December and the end of February. Occasional heavy flooding is possible.

Additional Country Info

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Malta.

Most visits to Malta and Gozo are trouble-free. 

Malta has a relatively low crime rate but visitors should be alert to the risks of lesser crimes such as pick-pocketing, handbag snatching and theft which is becoming more prevalent in the main tourist areas. Opportunistic crime does take place particularly in areas where large groups socialise in the evenings. It is strongly advisable to leave essential items such as passports, credit cards, travel tickets in a safe place, such as a hotel. The minimum in cash and /or credit cards needed on a daily basis should be kept in separate handbag or pocket.  A copy of identification documents should be carried.  Be aware, however, that safe deposit boxes in apartments and hotels can be targeted by thieves.

Do not leave any items of value in an unattended car because thefts from vehicles do take place. Doors should be locked and windows rolled up when parked.

DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS IN MALTA 

Contact details for all Irish Missions (including Honorary Consuls) in Malta are available here. (Opens in new window)