How to access healthcare in Malta as an expat
Healthcare in Malta: system type, insurance requirements, emergency numbers, and quality scores. Scroll to the overview table for a quick summary.
Malta's healthcare system has strengths and weaknesses that every expat should know about before making the move.
Healthcare System Overview
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| System Type | Universal Public |
| Healthcare Quality Index | 82/100 |
| Spending per Capita | €3,641 |
| Life Expectancy | 82.3 years |
How the System Works
Malta's healthcare system is classified as Universal healthcare public. The government funds healthcare primarily through taxation, providing Universal healthcare coverage to residents.
Public vs Private Healthcare
Most countries offer both public and private healthcare options:
- Public healthcare: Available to all registered residents. May have waiting lists for non-urgent procedures. Typically lower cost but less choice of provider.
- Private healthcare: Shorter wait times, choice of specialist. Higher cost but often better facilities. Many expats choose private insurance for the first year.
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Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Universal Emergency | 112 |
| Ambulance | 112 |
| Police | 191 |
Save these numbers in your phone before arriving in Malta. In EU countries, 112 works universally. In non-EU countries, learn the local numbers and keep them accessible.
Health Insurance for Expats
As an expat in Malta, your insurance options typically include:
- Employer-sponsored insurance: If employed locally, your employer may enrol you in the public system or provide private coverage
- International health insurance: Global plans from providers like Cigna, Allianz, or Bupa — ideal for the first year or if you plan to move again
- Local private insurance: Often cheaper than international plans but may have language barriers in claims
- Public system enrolment: Available once you have a residence permit and employment
Healthcare Quality
With a healthcare quality index of 82/100, Malta offers excellent healthcare by international standards.
Life expectancy in Malta is 82.3 years, which is above the global average.
Government healthcare spending is approximately €3641 per capita per year.
Practical Tips
- Register immediately: Sign up for health insurance within your first week of arrival
- Bring medical records: Carry translated copies of your medical history, prescriptions, and vaccination records
- Find an English-speaking doctor: Expat communities and forums often maintain lists of English-speaking practitioners
- Prescription medications: Check if your regular medications are available and legal in Malta. Bring a 3-month supply with a doctor's letter
- Dental care: Dental coverage varies widely — check what your insurance covers and consider supplemental dental insurance
Additional Practical Information
Key Institutions and Services
Based on current expat reports, the following organisations and services are relevant for newcomers to Malta:
- Expats Health Insurance
- European Health Insurance
- Mater Dei Hospital
- Mount Carmel Hospital
- Gozo General Hospital
- Sir Paul Boffa Oncology Hospital
- Karin Grech Hospital
- The Saint James Hospital
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Malta:
- Exclusive discounts and additional benefits on Regency for Expats Health Insurance. Get a free quote now and save up to 40% on the best health insurance for Expats.
- Specialists in international health insurance for 40 years, offering health cover adapted to your needs as an expatriate, whether for a temporary stay or a long-term expatriation.
- If you are coming from an EU country, consider applying for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to cover the first 90 days following your installation in Malta. This card, free of charge, is issued upon request by your national health insurance fund. The EHIC provides access to:
- The choice of doctor depends on the nature of the problem. The general practitioner treats colds, children's mumps, etc., but for specific or serious issues, you need to consult a specialist . Malta has very good doctors, who are also sufficiently numerous: there are 4.3 doctors per 1,000 inhabitants!
- Any foreigner residing in Malta must contribute to the national social security system , granting them access to free healthcare . Employees are entitled to free healthcare once they have been working in Malta for more than three months. The same applies to self-employed individuals , who must contribute to the social security system.
- Foreign nationals intending to live and work in Malta must apply for an electronic residence card . Once received, it allows access to social security if necessary. Beneficiaries of Maltese social security , taxpayers, are identified by an individual national insurance number . For more information:
- Important:
- All foreigners residing in Malta for more than three months must have a residence permit. This permit entitles them to social security coverage.
- In Malta, pharmacies can be found in almost every village. Please note that some medications are only available on prescription . Click here to find the nearest pharmacy in Malta . Pharmacies also offer paid consultations by appointment or walk-in , but these generally only concern minor health issues .
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do in a medical emergency in Malta?
Call the emergency number (112) immediately. In a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the nearest hospital emergency department. Carry your insurance card and a translated summary of any medical conditions or allergies. Hospital emergency departments cannot refuse treatment.
How do I register for healthcare when I arrive in Malta?
Registration typically involves visiting a local health office or insurance provider within your first weeks. You will need your residence permit, passport, and proof of address. Your employer may handle registration if you are employed locally.
Do I need health insurance in Malta?
In most cases, yes. As an expat in Malta, you will need health insurance. Public healthcare may be available but private insurance is often recommended for comprehensive coverage. Check visa requirements — many residence permits require proof of health insurance.
How does mental health care work in Malta?
Mental health services in Malta vary in availability and quality. Public sector waiting times for non-emergency mental health care can be long. Private psychologists and psychiatrists are available in urban areas. Check if your insurance covers mental health consultations.
Are prescriptions from my home country valid in Malta?
Foreign prescriptions are generally not valid in Malta. Bring a translated copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's letter explaining your medication needs. Visit a local GP to get prescriptions reissued. Some medications may have different brand names or availability.