How to get health insurance in Malta

In Malta, there is a near-universal public health system which is tax funded. This offers free or subsidised healthcare services for Maltese citizens or Maltese residents who contribute to the social security system. 

The Maltese public health system provides an array of services, including prescriptions and specialist treatment, with many services being free at the point of delivery. 

Visitors from the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the UK who have their EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) should be able to access some state-provided healthcare services.

However, there are visitors, such as non-residents, who need health insurance policies to gain access to the complete selection of healthcare services they may need while in Malta. 

Contents

• Public healthcare in Malta for locals and foreign residents. 
• Accessing private healthcare in Malta. 
• How to get health insurance in Malta. 
• Look after yourself with GasanMamo health insurance. 

Public healthcare in Malta for locals and foreign residents

Primary care (first point of contact) is provided in both public and private hospitals in Malta. In terms of government-sponsored or public healthcare, there are eight Maltese medical centres that offer primary care.

Public hospitals mainly offer walk-in care for locals and foreign residents, whereas private centres and clinics generally have bookable appointments available. 

Expats who have residence status and live or work in Malta will pay social security contributions and have access to public healthcare services. Visitors from the EU and Schengen areas have to provide their EHIC card to gain access to public health services. 

EU nationals staying in Malta for more than 90 days need to obtain an S1 form in their home country and register this with the Maltese Entitlement Unit for free healthcare access. 

Accessing private healthcare in Malta

Evidence suggests that there could be longer wait times with public healthcare, and visitors may have to navigate unfamiliar services in order to see the right healthcare professionals. 

Expatriates living in Malta that are non-EU nationals are required to have a private healthcare policy to access the Maltese healthcare system. It’s also important to know that non-EU nationals have to show their valid health insurance document when they apply to obtain or renew their residency permit in Malta. 

Non-EU/EEA citizens generally need private health insurance to access healthcare services, as non-residents from these countries can’t use the free public health system in Malta until they pay 12 months of social security contributions. 

So if you’re looking to spend an extended amount of time or want to work in Malta, it makes good sense to have an active health insurance policy to ensure that you are financially protected from expensive medical bills should you need to undergo medical investigations or treatment during your stay in Malta. 

How to get health insurance in Malta

It’s recommended that expatriates secure a comprehensive health insurance plan during their time in Malta. In fact, for many work scenarios, it could be required. Planning your health insurance ahead of time reduces stress and saves you time. 

Follow this step-by-step guide to get health insurance in Malta:

1. Make a wish list of all the health benefits you would like in a health insurance policy. 
2. Consider what standard features you want your policy to cover. 
3. Think about the additional elements you want access to in a health insurance policy if you need them.
4. Decide on a health insurance budget based on affordability.
5. Find the health insurance provider that can offer you extensive protection at a reasonable cost.

What you really need when it comes to healthcare is an insurance provider who understands your personal circumstances and can offer you a plan that provides the options you need. 

With a comprehensive health insurance policy, you can feel reassured that your time in Malta is your own and that if anything happens you’ll gain the right protection. 

Once you discover a team of seasoned health insurance experts, like the ones at GasanMamo, you’ll have immediate peace of mind as your health priorities will be looked after.

Look after yourself with GasanMamo health insurance

When you’re busy, you might not be thinking about your health and how to cover treatment or prescription expenses if they occur. That’s why we have a comprehensive health insurance policy that will safeguard your wellness during your time in Malta. 

With years of insurance industry experience, we offer you flexible choices with all of the benefits private health insurance cover can deliver for you. Our friendly team is on hand to listen to your individual needs and make sure your health insurance plan gives you quality health insurance coverage. 

Discover the right health insurance for you and your loved ones by searching our health insurance page or getting in touch for a chat with our team of experts. 

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

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