Official Import Rules
Malta follows EU pet regulations. From EU countries: EU Pet Passport with ISO microchip and current rabies vaccination. From listed third countries: health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination. From non-listed third countries: FAVN titer test with 3-month wait. Entry through Malta International Airport (MLA). The Veterinary Regulation Directorate conducts inspections.
Regulatory Update — April 2026
The EU's legacy pet movement regulation (No 576/2013) transitions to the new Animal Health Law framework on 21 April 2026. Core requirements remain unchanged — microchip, rabies vaccination, EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate — but border authorities are now enforcing stricter document checking. In particular, the microchip-before-vaccination sequencing rule is being scrutinised more carefully: if your cat's rabies vaccination was administered before the microchip was implanted, that vaccination is invalid for EU entry. Ensure all documents are complete, correctly sequenced, and that microchip numbers match across every certificate before travelling. Note for cats travelling from the UK: a tapeworm treatment (Praziquantel) administered by a vet 1–5 days before arrival is also required.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (21-day wait)
EU Pet Passport or third-country veterinary certificate
Tapeworm treatment NOT required for cats
Arrive at Malta International Airport (MLA)
Preparation Checklist
4 weeks before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None for EU/listed countries
City & Housing Tips
Valletta, Sliema, St Julian's, and Gozo are popular. Malta is English-speaking, EU, and has a large expat and digital nomad community. Very cat-friendly island with numerous community cats. Most apartments allow cats.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care for a small island. Several modern clinics in the main urban areas. English is an official language so no communication barriers. Costs are moderate. Flea and tick prevention needed year-round.
Find Vets in MaltaExit Rules — Leaving Malta
EU Pet Passport for EU travel. Health certificate from an Official Veterinarian for non-EU destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Extremely. Malta has a visible and well-cared-for community cat population. Several cat sanctuaries and rescue organizations operate on the islands.
Yes, English is an official language of Malta alongside Maltese. All vets speak English and all government documents are available in English.
Yes. Malta offers an EU base, English language, good internet, warm climate, and a Nomad Residence Permit for remote workers.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Malta with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.