About Us
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers grouped by topic. For anything not covered here, get in touch with the Authority.
General Travel & Tourism
Where can I find car, bike, or boat rental services in Malta?
You can browse rental services for cars, bikes, and boats through the Yellow Pages Malta directory.
Where can I find a list of accommodation options in Malta?
The Malta Tourism Authority maintains an updated list of licensed accommodation, including hotels, guesthouses and short-term rentals.
Where can I get maps and information on places of interest?
The MTA provides general maps and tourist guides covering key attractions, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. These can be obtained from tourist information offices and on VisitMalta.
How can I find information on public transport routes and tickets?
For details on bus routes, schedules, and ticket options, visit the official public transport website.
Where can I find ferry schedules for Gozo and Comino?
You can check ferry schedules and ticket prices for Gozo on the Gozo Channel and Gozo High Speed websites. For Comino, ferry details are available online.
Where can I get information about visas and skill cards for Malta?
Visa applications and skill card information are handled by Identità – CVU Unit.
Where can I get information about foreign affairs matters such as visas and entry permits?
For visa applications, entry permits and other foreign affairs matters, please contact the Embassy and/or Consulate of the Republic of Malta in your country of residence, or refer to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism website.
Where can I find information on passport control in Malta?
Upon arrival in Malta, you may undergo passport control, depending on whether you are arriving from a Schengen country or elsewhere. Information on passport control procedures is available on the Malta International Airport website.
What are the available facilities at Malta International Airport?
For a full list of services, including transport options, duty-free shops, and lounges at Malta International Airport, please visit the MIA website.
Where can I find information on hospitals and primary healthcare services in Malta and Gozo?
Malta and Gozo have both public and private healthcare facilities. The main public hospital is Mater Dei Hospital in Msida; in Gozo, the Gozo General Hospital provides essential services. Primary healthcare services, including health centres and clinics, are available across both islands. Several private hospitals also operate in Malta, including Saint James Hospital, St Thomas Hospital and Da Vinci Hospital. For emergency medical assistance, dial 112.
Mater Dei HospitalGozo General HospitalPrimary HealthCare MaltaSaint James HospitalSt Thomas HospitalDa Vinci Hospital
What emergency services are available in Malta?
Malta provides a range of emergency services, including medical, fire, and police assistance. In case of an emergency, dial 112 — the universal emergency number — for immediate help. Public hospitals offer 24/7 emergency care, the Malta Police Force responds to public safety concerns, and the Civil Protection Department handles fire emergencies, rescues and disaster response.
Where can I find a list of language schools in Malta?
Information regarding all licensed language schools in Malta is published by the ELT Council.
How can I get information about mobile roaming and telecommunications in Malta?
Malta's three main telecom providers offer roaming services for tourists. Visit the websites of GO, Melita, and Epic for details on coverage and SIM card options.
What are the regulations for travelling to Malta with pets?
If you are travelling with a pet, please refer to the official pet travel instructions. Also make sure you are familiar with your airline's pet travel policy before travelling to Malta.
Are there dog-friendly beaches in Malta?
Yes, certain beaches in Malta are designated as dog-friendly. A full list with details is available online.
Can I fly a drone in the Maltese Islands?
Yes, you can operate and fly drones; however, this is regulated by Transport Malta. Please visit Transport Malta's website for guidelines on permitted areas, licences, and restrictions.
Licensing
How can I get updates on my licence payments?
If you need information on the status of your licence payments, outstanding balances, or any related queries, please contact the MTA Licensing Department for details on due dates, payment methods and applicable fees.
What is the process for applying for a tourism-related licence?
To operate a tourism-related business in Malta, you must obtain the appropriate licence from the MTA. The process involves submitting the necessary documentation, meeting specific criteria, and undergoing inspections if required.
What are the requirements and criteria for obtaining a licence?
Licensing requirements vary depending on the type of establishment or service. Factors such as health and safety standards, operational guidelines and financial obligations must be met. The Licensing Department can provide a comprehensive list of requirements.
How can I apply for a new licence for my tourism-related business?
If you wish to apply for a new licence, you must complete the relevant application forms and submit them along with the necessary supporting documents. The MTA Licensing Department will guide you through the process and inform you of any inspections or approvals required.
How can I request a list of licensed tourism establishments in Malta?
The MTA maintains a register of licensed hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and other tourism-related businesses, which you can browse online or request from the Licensing Department.
Licensed establishments registerlicensing.mta@visitmalta.com
Where can I find a list of licensed tourist guides?
Malta has a network of certified tourist guides trained and licensed by the MTA. You may request a list of licensed guides from the Licensing Department.
Where can I get information about the Environmental Contribution Tax (ECT)?
The Environmental Contribution Tax (ECT) is a fee applicable to certain accommodations in Malta. For information on how to report or pay the ECT, please contact environmentalcontribution@gov.mt for assistance.
The online complaint submission link does not work. What should I do?
If you are experiencing technical issues with submitting a complaint, please use the official complaints page. If the issue persists, contact the MTA support team for further assistance.
Compliance & Regulatory
How do I file a complaint about a tourism establishment's facilities?
We are sorry to hear that you have had a subpar experience and hope to rectify it as soon as possible. If you have concerns about the quality, cleanliness, or operations of a tourism establishment, you can report your complaint to the MTA Compliance & Regulatory Unit, which is responsible for monitoring and regulating licensed businesses.
Can I request a refund through the MTA?
The MTA does not handle refund requests. If you have issues related to cancellations, overcharges, or service disputes, you should contact the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) or the European Consumer Centre (ECC) for support.
How do I request an inspection of a tourism establishment?
If you believe an establishment is operating without a licence or is not meeting regulatory standards, you may request an inspection by contacting the MTA Compliance & Regulatory Unit. They will investigate the matter and take appropriate action if necessary.
Where can I report complaints about sunbed, table and chair allocations?
If you have complaints about the allocation or misuse of sunbeds, tables, or chairs at beaches, hotels, or other public areas, please report them to the MTA Compliance & Regulatory Unit, which will take the necessary steps to ensure compliance.
Malta's Environment
Where can I find information about Blue Flag beaches and their facilities in Malta?
The MTA oversees several Blue Flag beaches that meet high environmental and service standards. For details on facilities, accessibility and guidelines, please contact the Beaches team at the MTA.
How do I report issues related to Blue Flag beach facilities or surrounding areas?
If you notice problems with amenities, safety, or cleanliness at a Blue Flag beach, please report them to the MTA's Beaches team. For waste management and environmental concerns, the Cleansing and Maintenance Division will also be involved.
How can I file a complaint about general beach facilities, cleanliness or maintenance?
If you have concerns regarding the upkeep, hygiene, or general condition of any beach in Malta, please forward your complaint to the MTA's Beaches Unit and the Cleansing Department for further action.
How can I get information about diving sites in Malta?
Malta is home to numerous world-class diving spots. For information on diving locations, safety guidelines and recommendations, please reach out to the MTA's product development team.
Are there any restrictions on excavation and construction work during the summer season?
Yes, demolition and excavation works are prohibited in designated tourist areas from 15 June to 30 September. The MTA compiles the list of affected streets, with some areas — like Valletta, Mdina and the Three Cities — subject to a full ban except for emergency works. Violations can be reported to the Building and Construction Authority on +356 8004 9000, +356 2095 5000 or +356 2095 5555, or by email.
Quality Assurance
Where can I find a list of Quality Assured (QA) establishments in Malta?
The MTA maintains a list of accredited Quality Assured (QA) restaurants, attractions and destination management companies (DMCs) that meet high standards of excellence.
Events & Sponsorships
How do I request a calendar of events for upcoming activities in Malta?
For a calendar of events or further details about future activities you may be interested in attending, browse the VisitMalta website.
I am hosting or organising an event. How can I list this?
If you're interested in listing an event on the MTA's official websites, please contact the digital team with the event details.
Where can I buy tickets for the In Guardia reenactment?
You can purchase tickets for the In Guardia reenactment through Heritage Malta. Please visit their official website for ticket availability and pricing.
Does the Malta Tourism Authority offer sponsorships?
Yes, the Malta Tourism Authority reviews and considers sponsorship requests based on their merit. Detailed sponsorship proposals should be sent to the MTA, where they are evaluated for tourism-related initiatives.
Communications & Audiovisuals
How can I request promotional material from the Malta Tourism Authority?
If you need brochures, leaflets or other promotional materials about Malta, please forward your request to the marketing communications team.
I am a blogger or journalist. How can I collaborate with the Malta Tourism Authority?
The MTA welcomes collaboration with bloggers and journalists. Please direct your request to the marketing team.
Where can I find high-quality photos and videos of Malta for media or promotional use?
You can access a collection of high-quality photos and videos of Malta through the Viewing Malta platform.
How can I film a TV program or feature in Malta?
If you are interested in filming a TV program, documentary, or feature in Malta, please direct your request to the marketing team.
What are the guidelines for filming in Malta?
Filming in Malta is subject to specific regulations. For official filming guidelines, permits and procedures, please refer to Screen Malta's official website.
How can I participate in international tourism fairs with the MTA?
If you are interested in participating in international fairs and exhibitions related to Malta's tourism industry, visit the Fairs section on this website or forward your request to the marketing team.
Research & Statistics
How can I request tourism statistics or research data from the Malta Tourism Authority?
The MTA provides statistical data and research insights related to Malta's tourism sector. If you require specific reports or datasets, please direct your request to the Research Unit within the Strategic Development Directorate.
Can I access old publications from the Malta Tourism Authority?
If you are looking for past reports, brochures or other historical publications issued by the MTA or its predecessor the National Tourism Organisation of Malta (NTOM), you can request access to the MTA's library.