Moving with a Pet to Malta

Moving to Malta as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting adventure, and for those with furry companions, it's important to understand the ins and outs of bringing a pet along. Malta has specific requirements for vaccination and paperwork to ensure the health and safety of both the local animal population and your pet. While it's not uncommon to have pets in Malta, there are certain regulations you must follow, including potential quarantine measures, depending on your pet's country of origin. This article will delve into the details of these requirements and provide you with a step-by-step guide to make the transition as smooth as possible for you and your pet.

Can I bring my dog to Malta?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Malta, but there are several requirements you must meet. Your dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a pet passport or third-country official veterinary certificate. Dogs coming from outside the European Union may also need a blood test to prove the rabies vaccination is effective. Depending on the country you are traveling from, your dog may need to undergo a quarantine period to ensure it is not carrying any diseases.

Can I bring my cat to Malta?

Similar to dogs, cats are also welcome in Malta, provided they comply with the necessary health regulations. Cats must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. They must have an EU pet passport or a veterinary certificate if coming from a third country. The same potential quarantine rules apply to cats as they do to dogs, especially if they are arriving from a non-EU country or a country with a high risk of rabies.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Malta

Malta has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous and are therefore prohibited from entering the country. These typically include breeds such as American Pit Bull Terrier, Tosa Inu, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro. Additionally, exotic pets such as certain reptiles, birds, and rodents may be subject to restrictions or bans. It's crucial to check the latest regulations with the Maltese authorities before planning your move.

How do I bring my pet to Malta?

To bring your pet to Malta, you must ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order. This includes a microchip that complies with ISO standard 11784 or 11785, a rabies vaccination administered after the microchip has been implanted, and an EU pet passport or official veterinary certificate. Pets from certain countries may require a rabies titer test. You should also notify the Veterinary Regulation Directorate of your pet's arrival at least 24 hours in advance and provide a pre-notification form. It's advisable to work with a licensed pet transporter to navigate the process smoothly.

Upon Arriving in Malta

Once your pet has arrived in Malta, you may need to register it with the local council and obtain a license, particularly for dogs. Finding a veterinarian is straightforward, as there are numerous clinics across the islands. Maltese people generally like dogs and cats, and while dog parks are not as common as in some other countries, there are public spaces where dogs are welcome. It's important to familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding pets in public areas, leash laws, and waste disposal to ensure you and your pet can enjoy Malta's beautiful environment responsibly.