Malta is a beautiful island nation that blends medieval charm with modern comforts. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, it also boasts stunning beaches and a warm climate.
CapitalValletta
Population514,000
Official language(s)Maltese, English
CurrencyEuro
Time zoneUTC+1
It's advisable to book in advance during the summer as it gets quite crowded.
Malta is in the Schengen Area, and many tourists can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, but visa requirements depend on your nationality. Before you travel, check your passport validity and the purpose of your stay, and arrange a visa in advance if your nationality requires one. Electronic travel authorizations such as the US ESTA, Korea K-ETA, UK ETA, Canada eTA, and Australia ETA are separate pre-approval systems used only when required by those countries; Malta does not normally require a separate online pre-registration scheme for ordinary tourists. Paper arrival cards are usually not used, and any cash declaration threshold or restricted items should be checked in advance with your airline and customs guidance.
Check passport and stay eligibility
At immigration, officials check your passport, purpose of stay, and length of stay. Because Schengen stay limits are monitored, check your remaining days in advance if you have recently stayed in another Schengen country.
Answer basic questions briefly
You may be asked about your tourist purpose, accommodation address, and return or onward ticket. Answer briefly and truthfully, and be ready to show hotel booking confirmation or proof of your onward travel if requested.
Biometrics and e-gates
At Malta’s airport, biometric checks such as fingerprints or facial images may be taken under Schengen entry rules. If you are eligible, you may use an automated border gate, but first-time arrivals or travelers who do not meet the conditions must use the regular booth.
Watch restricted items
Items such as meat, dairy products, fruit, plants, and animal-based foods may be restricted, so follow customs guidance. Duty-free allowances and permitted items can vary by departure country and product type.
Check customs reporting before leaving
Before departure, check the rules for duty-free goods, valuable items, and cash movement. If you have items to declare, customs at the airport can guide you through the procedure.
Present your passport at departure control
Because Malta is in the Schengen Area, departure usually involves a passport and boarding pass check, and a separate exit card is not normally used. Follow the route indicated on site, whether an automated gate or a staffed lane is open.
Handle VAT refund before departure
VAT refunds for goods bought in Malta are handled before departure at the airport, where you present the tax refund documents for validation. You may need receipts and goods together, so prepare both for the shop, refund desk, and customs check process.