Moving to Malta

Malta is more than a destination, it is a Mediterranean lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Europe. Though small in size, this island nation is rich in character, offering a unique amalgamation of medieval European and Middle Eastern influences shaped over thousands of years. From ancient megalithic temple complexes, some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world, to crystal-clear waters and stunning, safe beaches, Malta delivers beauty, culture, and security in equal measure. English is widely spoken, daily life feels welcoming from day one, and the cuisine is distinctly Maltese, highlighted by local favorites like traditional ftira bread. Spread across two main islands and surrounded by over 197 km of breathtaking coastline, Malta offers exceptional seaside living with historic charm and modern comfort. Whether you are retiring, working remotely, or seeking a better quality of life, many couples live comfortably on around $4000 per month, making Malta one of Europe’s most appealing and accessible relocation destinations. When you are ready to make the move, Orbit International Moving ensures your household goods arrive safely and seamlessly to your new island home.

When moving to Malta with household goods, securing your legal residency status is the first and most important step. Malta Customs will not grant duty relief on used personal effects without proof of legal residence. Attempting to ship household goods before obtaining the proper status can result in full import duties, storage charges, shipment delays, or even refusal of entry.

Important note: Malta strictly prohibits PBO (Packed by Owner) shipments. All household goods must be professionally packed and wrapped by a licensed international moving company. Self-packed cartons will not be cleared.

Malta Customs requires proof of legal status for duty relief on used personal effects. Secure these before booking movers:

• Valid residence permit or eResidence document from Identità (identita.gov.mt): Essential for non-EU nationals; confirms right to reside/work. Apply online via Single Permit if employed (employer initiates).
• Work permit or employment licence: For non-EU workers; tied to job offer. Needed alongside residence permit.
• Residence Certificate or Certificate of Registration: Proves local residency post-arrival; often required for clearance.
• Visa if required (pre-entry for non-EU/Schengen): Single Permit holders get this; must enter legally before goods arrive.

Malta Customs requires documented proof of legal status to qualify for duty relief on used household goods and personal effects. The following must be secured before booking your international move to Malta:

• Valid residence permit or eResidence document issued by Identità (identita.gov.mt)
  Required for non-EU nationals. This confirms your legal right to reside and, if applicable, work in Malta. Employees typically apply through the Single Permit process, which is initiated by the employer.
• Work permit or employment licence
  Required for non-EU nationals relocating for employment. This is tied to a specific job offer and must be approved alongside the residence permit.
• Residence Certificate or Certificate of Registration
  Often required after arrival to confirm local residency status and complete customs clearance for household goods.
• Entry visa (if applicable)
  Non-EU or non-Schengen nationals may require a long-stay visa before entering Malta. Single Permit holders receive authorization for entry but must enter legally before their shipment arrives.

To clear your household goods shipment in Malta, the following documentation is typically required:

• Passport copy
• Detailed packing list and valued inventory
• Proof of employment or legal residence in Malta
• Proof of previous residence abroad
• Original bill of lading or air waybill

Regulations may differ for EU and non-EU origin shipments.
Customs treatment, documentation requirements, and deposit conditions can vary depending on the shipment’s origin and the importer’s nationality.

Because customs policies can change and enforcement may vary, customers should always verify the most current requirements directly with Maltese Customs or a licensed Maltese customs broker prior to shipping household goods to Malta.

For official information regarding Maltese immigration and residency requirements, visit the Government of Malta’s authority at identita.gov.mt

Orbit International Moving coordinates shipping and customs documentation based on the information provided by the client. We cannot process or dispatch shipments without proper residency status and required documentation in place.

When moving to Malta, compliance with Maltese Customs regulations is essential to avoid delays, penalties, or unexpected charges. The following rules typically apply to the importation of used household goods and personal effects:

• The importer must be physically present in Malta, or at minimum legally registered locally, before customs clearance begins.
  Household goods shipments are generally cleared only after the owner has legally entered and established residency status.
• Personal effects must usually arrive within a defined timeframe of the owner’s arrival in Malta.
  Timing rules may vary, and shipments arriving too early or too late may not qualify for duty relief. Always confirm current regulations with your licensed Maltese customs broker before shipping.
• Used household goods may qualify for duty and VAT relief if imported as personal effects and if they have been owned and used abroad by the importer, typically for a minimum of 12 months prior to shipment.
• A refundable customs deposit may be required upon arrival.
  Maltese Customs may request a cash deposit calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value to secure potential duty and VAT. This deposit is normally refunded once the owner has completed the required qualifying period of residency in Malta.

Certain items may attract import duty, Maltese VAT, or be subject to additional regulatory controls. These items must be clearly declared and accurately listed on your valued inventory to avoid customs delays.

The following commonly attract duty, VAT, or special clearance requirements:

• New or unused items, including goods still in original packaging.
• Electrical and electronic appliances, particularly high-value items.
• Bicycles and small leisure boats, which may be assessed separately.
• Alcohol and food products, which are tightly controlled and generally permitted only in small personal-use quantities. Larger quantities are typically dutiable and may be refused entry.
• Tobacco products exceeding personal allowance limits.
• Certain wireless, radio, or communications equipment, which may require prior authorisation from the Malta Communications Authority if not licence-exempt.

Customers should expect that any clearly new or recently purchased items will be assessed for applicable import duty and Maltese VAT prior to release of the shipment. Failure to declare dutiable goods accurately can result in penalties, delays, or additional inspection fees.

For smooth customs clearance when moving to Malta, always provide a detailed and honest inventory and consult your Maltese customs broker if you are unsure whether an item may be subject to import duty.

Some items are strictly prohibited or subject to licences and should never be packed without prior written approval from the destination agent:

• Firearms and weapons are highly controlled; sporting firearms generally require a valid firearms licence and an import permit from the Malta Police, while many military‑type weapons are outright prohibited.
• Illicit drugs and narcotics are strictly prohibited and carry severe penalties.
• Counterfeit goods, obscene or pornographic material, and products from endangered species (such as some furs, ivory or certain animal skins) are not permitted.
• Explosives, fireworks, and dangerous chemicals are generally banned from personal effects shipments.
• Certain radio transmitters, satellite phones, walkie‑talkies, dish antennas and other non‑standard communications equipment may require prior approval or individual licensing before they can be used in Malta.

Customers should always discuss any potentially restricted items with our office before shipping, as local authorities may change lists or licensing requirements without notice.

Important note: Malta drives on the left side of the road, and most vehicles on the local market are right‑hand drive. Before committing to shipping a Canadian or other left‑hand drive vehicle, customers should carefully consider whether it will be practical and cost‑effective to use and register it in Malta.

• The vehicle owner must be legally present and registered in Malta before customs clearance of the vehicle begins.
• Import taxes and registration fees in Malta can be substantial. Customers should always obtain an up‑to‑date estimate from Maltese authorities or a licensed customs broker before shipping.
• In general, Maltese rules distinguish between returning residents, new permanent residents, and temporary residents. Eligibility for any exemption or reduction typically depends on residency status, how long the vehicle has been owned and used abroad, and whether the car will be imported as part of a change of normal residence.
• Even where some relief from customs duty is available, other charges, such as registration tax, VAT, and administrative fees may still be payable.

• Vehicles must normally have been registered abroad in the owner’s name for a minimum qualifying period (typically 24 months for exemptions) and must meet Maltese and EU technical, safety, and environmental standards.
• Only unleaded fuel is available in Malta, and vehicles must be suitable for local fuel and emission requirements.
• Right‑hand drive vehicles are standard in Malta; left‑hand drive vehicles may still be registerable but could face additional practical or regulatory considerations, or mandatory modifications

Customers should be prepared to provide at least the following documents (exact requirements can vary and should be confirmed with Maltese authorities or a customs broker):

• Passport and proof of legal residence in Malta.
• Original vehicle registration document (log book) and proof that the vehicle has been owned and used abroad for the required period.
• Purchase invoice or valuation to support the customs value.
• Any required import authorisation or licence from the competent Maltese authority.
• Roadworthiness certificate or inspection report acceptable to Maltese authorities.
• Valid motor insurance cover for Malta

Please note: Customs, tax, and vehicle registration regulations in Malta may change without prior notice. The information provided above is intended as a general overview and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Customers should always verify the most current requirements directly with Maltese Customs, Transport Malta, or a licensed Maltese customs broker before shipping a motor vehicle.

Last updated: February 26, 2026
Based on current Maltese customs regulations and Orbit International Moving procedures.