Malta: Eased COVID-19-related domestic measures in place as of March 8 /update 34

Event

Eased COVID-19-related domestic measures are in place in Malta as of March 8. The quarantine period for unvaccinated primary contacts (i.e., those who have been in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case) has been shortened to five days, provided a negative result is received from a test taken at the end of the quarantine period. Additionally, the quarantine period for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and have a valid vaccine certificate has been reduced to seven days, provided receipt of a negative COVID-19 test result on the seventh day of isolation. Quarantine requirements for vaccinated primary contacts and unvaccinated household members of primary contacts have been lifted. Authorities have also removed restrictions limiting operating hours of hospitality and cultural venues. From March 14, the requirement to wear a facemask in outdoor public places is to be lifted, with masks only mandatory indoors and at large events.

As of March 8, international arrivals from countries rated as "Dark Red Zones" are required to quarantine for seven days (shortened from the previously enforced 14-day quarantine period), provided they have a valid vaccination certificate and receive a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken at the end of the self-isolation period. All WHO-approved vaccines are now recognized.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities allow public gatherings of up to six people from different households. Until March 14, wearing a facemask remains mandatory in all outdoor and enclosed public spaces nationwide; individuals who have received a booster shot of a COVID-19 vaccine are exempt from the requirement to wear a facemask outdoors.

International Travel Restrictions
Malta classifies all countries as either "Red Zones" or "Dark Red Zones" depending on epidemiological risk. Most travelers from Dark Red Zone countries are prohibited from entering Malta. Only citizens and residents of Malta and persons traveling for essential reasons as determined by the Superintendent of Public Health may enter the country from Dark Red Zones. To access the application for travel authorization from a Dark Red Zone, click here.

All permitted travelers from Dark Red locations must present a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival and observe a 14-day quarantine period. The quarantine period is shortened to seven days if the traveler has a valid vaccination certificate and receives a negative result from a PCR test taken between the fifth and seventh day of self-isolation. Travelers who are either nonresident foreign nationals or unvaccinated must quarantine at their own expense in a government-designated hotel, while vaccinated permanent residents may self-isolate at their residences under certain conditions.

All travelers from Red Zones may travel to Malta provided they have not entered or transited a Dark Red Zone in the 14 days prior to arrival in the country. Vaccinated travelers must present a vaccination certificate recognized by the Superintendent of Public Health. Additionally, authorities also accept certificates showing one dose of a vaccine given after the individual has recovered from COVID-19. Vaccine certificates are valid between 14 days and three months after the last dose of a primary vaccine schedule and up to nine months after a booster vaccine.

Unvaccinated travelers from Red Zones must present proof of a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival and must quarantine in a government-designated hotel for 14 days. Maltese citizens and residents can opt to quarantine at their residences. To view the full list of Dark Red and Red Zone locations, along with detailed entry requirements, including accepted vaccine certificates, click here.

All arrivals must complete a digital passenger locator form before travel; to access the form, click here.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice in response to government reviews.

Advice

Confirm all travel plans and business appointments. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. Carry proper identification and other necessary travel documents to present at security checks; remain polite and nonconfrontational with border officials. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19.

Resources

Maltese COVID-19 Website