How much does health insurance cost in Malta?

Malta has a well-respected healthcare system, often appearing in the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) top 20 rankings. Recent polls suggest that Malta was ranked 18th out of 196 countries in the Healthcare Index 2024. 

With an excellent healthcare system, there are access points for both public and private health facilities. Both of these systems are deemed to be good quality, with doctors able to practise in both private and public healthcare. 

However, even with access to public healthcare, there are scenarios where medical appointments, treatments or procedures may not be available immediately. 

If you need to arrange a visit with a healthcare professional in a timely manner, it could be beneficial to take out health insurance to improve access and protect your health. 

In this article, we explore how much health insurance costs in Malta and what factors affect health insurance policies.

Contents 

● What is the healthcare system like in Malta? 

● How much does health insurance cost in Malta? 

● What factors affect health insurance policies? 

● Find your health insurance with GasanMamo. 

What is the healthcare system like in Malta? 

Malta’s healthcare system is a hybrid public-private model that offers universal healthcare options for all Maltese citizens and residents.

Maltese citizens can access the public healthcare system which is funded by general taxation and national insurance contributions. 

EU/EEA nationals are entitled to access free public healthcare in Malta, but how this works depends on the duration and purpose of their stay. Temporary visitors should take their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access medically necessary or emergency treatment at public health centres and hospitals free of charge. Long-term

residents must register an S1 form from their home country and present it to Malta’s Entitlement Unit. Once registered and paying into the Maltese social security system, they shall receive the same full access to public healthcare as locals.

Third Country Nationals do not receive free public healthcare in Malta right away. Once a TCN has worked in Malta and paid social security for at least 12 months, they and their dependents are entitled to free public healthcare, on par with Maltese and EU nationals. Before completing 12 months, TCNs must pay the standard public healthcare fees unless they have a private health insurance that covers for their medical expenses.

How much does health insurance cost in Malta? 

For many, gaining quicker access to healthcare services for themselves and loved ones is very important. Health insurance opens up a range of options, such as rapid booking for healthcare appointments, easier access to doctors and any specialist treatment. 

If you’re an expat, it’s likely that you will be required to have private health insurance as part of your residency application. This means that you gain access to appropriate healthcare systems during your time in Malta. 

Health insurance also offers you more extensive coverage than simply accessing public services. You can book appointments with specialists or undergo advanced treatments as long as these are covered in your specific health insurance plan. In fact, around 33% of all health spending in Malta is out-of-pocket or private payment. 

The insurance premium may vary depending on your age and the insurance requirement for the residency permit or programme you’re applying for. 

This is due to the fact that different permits and programmes may require varying levels of health insurance cover. Typically, private health insurance for a residency application or permit might cost between €180 and €400. 

For individuals applying for residency, especially if this is through an investment programme, taking out health insurance is obligatory and will likely cost €400 or slightly more. 

What factors affect health insurance? 

Age 

Health insurance premium varies according to age bands, increasing with every 5-year age band since the insurance risk that an individual may require medical investigations and/or treatment increases as one ages. Tailor-made health plans specifically for specific residency applications are also available at a fixed rate. 

Coverage level 

The chosen level of cover also plays an important factor in determining a health insurance premium, with options varying between limited cover health plans and comprehensive cover in Malta or worldwide, excluding USA and Canada.

However, if you require regular or extensive health treatment while you’re on your trip but you only have a basic health plan, it’s likely that this will cost you more in the long run. 

Provider 

The price of health insurance varies from provider to provider. Discovering a health insurance company, like GasanMamo, that cares for their customers, provides comprehensive health insurance and at a reasonable cost can make all the difference.

Health history 

Chronic (long-term) and pre existing medical conditions do not generally influence the cost of health insurance. However, such chronic and/or pre-existing medical conditions are typically medically underwritten by insurers and the cost of medical expenses related to such conditions are not covered by the private health insurance policy.

Find your health insurance with GasanMamo 

Insurance can appear complex, but with the right knowledge you can find a deal that works for your needs. Take stock of your health situation and lifestyle choices to help you find a comprehensive health insurance premium at a reasonable cost. 

Begin your search for the right plan by reviewing the benefits you gain on our health insurance page. 

GasanMamo Insurance is authorised under the Insurance Business Act and regulated by the MFSA.

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