ETIAS for Malta

Travellers from more than 50 non-EU nations will soon need to apply for ETIAS before visiting Malta.

Malta is one of the Schengen countries that will benefit from the added security of a new travel authorisation for Europe. By pre-screening tourists arriving from outside the EU, Malta will become an even safer destination.

Registering with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System will be quick and hassle-free: the application is fully online and can be completed just a few days before departure.

With an approved ETIAS permit, non-EU passport holders can enjoy up to 90 days in Malta.

Malta existed as a British colony from 1813 until the Malta independence Act of 1964. At this point, it became the State of Malta with Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. The Maltese nation became a republic in 1974.

Since gaining independence, Malta has joined the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations (UN).

Having joined in 2004, Malta is one of the most recent additions to the European Union. There are currently 6 members of the European Parliament who represent Malta.

The country has since become part of the Eurozone, replacing the Maltese lira with the Euro in 2008.

Malta has been a member of the Schengen Area since 21st December 2007 and in recent years has been involved with the development of ETIAS for increased Schengen zone security.

Around 2.6 million tourists visit Malta yearly, attracted by the warm Mediterranean climate, fascinating history, and beautiful scenery. With English as one of its 2 official languages, travellers can across the world enjoy the island nation with little to no language barrier.

The EU’s visa liberalisation policy also facilitates travel to Malta. Non-European passport holders from visa-exempt countries can enter Malta using just a valid passport. ETIAS for Malta will be operational from 2026 and will become an entry requirement.

DO I NEED MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR MALTA?

Visitors from elsewhere in the EU should take their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with them to Malta.

Whether or not a non-European citizen needs medical insurance depends on the type of permit they require.

HEALTH INSURANCE FOR ETIAS MALTA

Medical insurance is not required to obtain ETIAS for Malta. Travellers are not asked to provide evidence of medical insurance when completing the online application.

However, medical insurance is recommended to cover the cost of any treatment required whilst in Malta and enjoy the country with greater peace of mind.

MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR SCHENGEN VISA FOR MALTA

Foreigners who do not qualify for ETIAS must instead apply for a Schengen visa. To do so, proof of medical coverage must be provided.

The insurance policy selected must cover the entire Schengen Area, even if the traveller intends to remain only in Malta, and cover a minimum of 30,000 euros.

CROSSING MALTA BORDER CHECKPOINTS

As there are no internal borders, visitors from other Schengen countries are not stopped at checkpoints when entering Malta. Nevertheless, EU-nationals should carry their documentation with them when heading to Malta.

CITIZENS OF VISA-EXEMPT THIRD COUNTRIES

Until now, non-EU nationals from several countries have been able to travel to Malta using just a valid passport. From 2026 , individuals from these visa-exempt nations will be able to register with ETIAS.

Tourists and business people with ETIAS can stay in Malta for 90 days after crossing the border.

OTHER THIRD-COUNTRY NATIONALS

Tourists who do not meet the ETIAS requirements need a Schengen visa for Malta in addition to a valid passport. Supporting documents must also be presented including evidence of sufficient funds for the trip and medical insurance.

ARRIVING IN MALTA BY PLANE AND FERRY

As an island nation, the quickest and most popular way to get to Malta from overseas is by plane.

Malta International Airport (IATA: MLA, ICAO: LMML) is the country’s only airport, serving all the Maltese islands. It is located just 5 miles (3.1 km) from Valletta which is easily accessible by taxi and public bus.

There are direct flights between Malta International airport and many European cities, some of the busiest routes include Malta to Frankfurt in Germany and Paris in France.

FERRIES FROM ITALY TO MALTA

Tourists travelling to Malta from Italy also have the option of taking a ferry. Ferries depart from Pozzallo and Salerno, taking 1 hr and 45 minutes to reach Valletta. There are also ships from Catania with a longer journey time of over 4 hours.

In addition to the main island of Malta, tourists can also explore Gozo and Comino. Each of the 3 main Maltese islands offers blue water and coves in addition to historical and cultural attractions.

On the principal island, travellers should explore Mdina. This ancient city was the Maltese capital until the Middle Ages and retains its ancient fortifications. It lies on a hill with views across other neighbourhoods. Mdina is known for its architecture including St Paul’s Cathedral which is well worth visiting.

The capital of Malta, Valletta, is on a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. Some of the nation's best eateries can be found here, serving seafood and other typical Maltese dishes including lampuki pie (fish pie), bragioli (beef olives), and Kannoli for dessert.

Malta’s clear blue waters are perfect for scuba diving. Each of the 3 islands has experiences suited to everyone from beginners to experienced divers. A popular site is the wreck of HMS Maori and the shallow Ghar Lapsi reef.

In addition, Malta’s rocky terrain makes it a great place for rock climbing. There are over 1,000 climbing routes including at the famous Blue Grotto. Bouldering and abseiling are also available for the most adventurous tourists.