All 188 Visa-Free Countries for Malta Passport Holders

Malta's passport is one of the strongest in the world, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations.

In practical terms, this means Maltese citizens can travel to a vast number of countries without needing to obtain a traditional visa in advance.

This includes entire regions such as the Schengen Area in Europe, much of the Americas, Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa. For each destination, however, there are specific entry rules regarding the length of stay and documentation required.

Below we provide an up-to-date breakdown of visa-free, visa-on-arrival (VoA), and electronic travel authorization (eTA) destinations for Maltese passport holders, organized by region. For each country, we summarize the visa policy (how long you can stay, and under what conditions you may enter without a prior visa) and the entry requirements (such as passport validity, onward ticket, proof of funds, etc.).

Schengen Countries

The Schengen Area comprises most EU countries and a few associates, all of which Maltese citizens may enter freely. As Malta itself is an EU and Schengen member, Maltese passport holders benefit from freedom of movement. You can travel with just your Maltese passport or even the national ID card to any Schengen state, with no visa required for any length of stay. In practice, stays beyond 90 days may require you to register your residence, but there is no hard tourist time-limit as there is for non-EU visitors.

Countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

• Visa policy: Maltese passport holders can enter and stay in all Schengen countries without a visa. As EU citizens, they have the right to reside, work, and study in other EU/EEA states without visas. For tourism, there is effectively no 90-day limit that applies to non-EU visitors – Maltese citizens can stay indefinitely, though stays over 3 months should meet EU residence criteria (employment, study or sufficient means).
• Entry requirements: Minimal requirements apply. You may travel using either a valid Maltese passport or your Maltese national ID card. No visa or prior authorization is needed. At the border (if any, since Schengen has no routine internal border checks), you might be asked for your travel document. Generally, there is no requirement for onward tickets or specific funds for EU citizens. Ensure your passport or ID is valid for the duration of your stay. (Note: Schengen countries will introduce the ETIAS system in 2026 for non-EU visitors, but Maltese citizens are exempt from ETIAS as EU nationals.)

Non-Schengen European Countries

Europe beyond the Schengen Zone is also largely accessible visa-free to Maltese nationals. This includes EU countries not in Schengen, Balkan nations, the Caucasus region, and various micro-states.

These destinations are immensely popular, offering everything from the rugged beauty of the Caucasus Mountains to the historical cities of the UK. Although not part of Schengen, many have bilateral arrangements or unilateral policies that waive visas for Maltese travelers. Below we detail each of these European destinations.

United Kingdom (UK)

• Visa policy: Maltese citizens (as EU nationals) do not need a visa to visit the United Kingdom for stays up to 6 months. The UK allows Maltese (and other EU passport holders) to enter visa-free for tourism, business visits, family visits, and other short stays under 180 days.
• Entry requirements: Currently, you must present a valid Maltese passport on arrival (EU national ID cards are no longer accepted post-Brexit). Starting 2 April 2025, the UK is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for visa-exempt nationals, including Maltese citizens. Maltese travelers will need to apply online for a UK ETA before travel, which grants multiple entries for up to 6-month visits. Aside from the ETA (once in effect), ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in the UK. You may be asked about your trip purpose or to show a return ticket and proof of funds at the border. (Note: Having visa-free access to the UK also means Maltese citizens can visit the British Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories visa-free as well. See the sections on those territories for details.)

Ireland

• Visa policy: Although Ireland is not in Schengen, it is an EU member. Maltese citizens have freedom of movement to Ireland just like in Schengen. No visa is required for any length of stay for Maltese nationals. For short visits, Maltese tourists can stay in Ireland visa-free indefinitely (EU citizens can even reside and work in Ireland without visas).
• Entry requirements: You need a valid Maltese passport or ID card to enter Ireland. There is no visa needed. Irish border officers may ask about your visit purpose or for an onward ticket, but generally EU citizens face minimal checks. Ensure your travel document is valid for your stay. It's wise to have evidence of accommodation or a contact address in Ireland and sufficient funds, as Irish immigration officials can ask for these, especially if you plan an extended visit.

Albania

• Visa policy: Malta passport holders may stay in Albania without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. (Note: Albania unilaterally allows EU citizens and many others visa-free entry. U.S. citizens get a special 1-year allowance, but for EU citizens the limit is 90 days.) No advance visa is needed for tourism or business visits.
• Entry requirements: You must present a valid Maltese passport (or ID card, as Albania accepts EU ID cards). The passport should be valid at least 3 months beyond your stay. You may be asked to show an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your visit. Generally, entry is straightforward. There is a requirement to register with authorities if you stay longer than the 90 days.

Andorra

• Visa policy: No visa is required for Maltese citizens visiting Andorra for up to 90 days. Andorra, a microstate in the Pyrenees, does not require visas from EU nationals for short stays.
• Entry requirements: Andorra can only be accessed via Spain or France (Schengen countries). No formal border control exists for Andorra, but effectively you'll enter via the Schengen Area. Thus, to visit Andorra, Maltese travelers should have a Schengen entry (passport or ID card). Ensure your passport is valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned departure from Schengen (since you'll be transiting Spain or France). Within Andorra, no additional documents are required; your Maltese passport/ID suffices.

Armenia

• Visa policy: Armenia grants Maltese passport holders visa-free entry for up to 180 days in a year. This generous policy means you can spend up to half a year in Armenia without a visa.
• Entry requirements: A valid Maltese passport (valid for the duration of your stay) is required. No visa needed. Armenian officials may ask that your passport be valid during entry and exit and that you have a return ticket. Generally, entry is hassle-free; just ensure your planned stay does not exceed 180 days per year.

Belarus

• Visa policy: Belarus currently allows Maltese (and other EU citizens) to visit visa-free for up to 30 days. This is a special program that has been extended through December 31, 2025. You can enter Belarus without a visa at approved border points (including via air and certain land crossings) and stay up to 30 days.
• Entry requirements: You need a valid Maltese passport and must enter Belarus through an approved checkpoint (for example, Minsk International Airport or certain land borders from EU neighbors, as per the visa-free regime rules). Visitors should carry an onward/return ticket and it's recommended to have travel insurance (Belarus may ask for proof of medical insurance coverage). Also, ensure you do not exceed 30 days; overstaying can lead to fines. Note that if traveling via Russia to Belarus, different rules apply (since Belarus and Russia have a union—no international control there—entering Belarus visa-free directly from Russia is not allowed). It's best to enter from an EU country or via direct flight for the visa waiver to apply.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Visa policy: Bosnia and Herzegovina permits Maltese and other EU visitors to stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. Essentially, you can visit for three months, and then must wait another three months before re-entering for a new visa-free period.
• Entry requirements: You need a valid Maltese passport that remains valid at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from Bosnia. Border control may also check that you have a return or onward ticket and enough funds for your stay. If you plan to stay at a private address (not a hotel) for more than 3 days, you or your host should register your presence with the local police within 48 hours of arrival. Hotels will do this automatically for their guests.

Bulgaria

• Visa policy: Bulgaria is an EU member (awaiting Schengen membership) and grants unlimited visa-free access to Maltese citizens. No visa is needed for any length of stay. Maltese are free to live, work, or visit Bulgaria.
• Entry requirements: A valid Maltese passport or ID card is sufficient. As an EU national, you face minimal checks. If transiting through other countries to reach Bulgaria (e.g. via Turkey or Serbia), ensure to meet their entry requirements, but for Bulgaria itself, no visa is required. Stays over 90 days may require registering your residence (since EU citizens staying over 3 months should register for residency in Bulgaria), but you will not be subject to any visa.

Cyprus

• Visa policy: Cyprus, though not in Schengen, is an EU country. Maltese citizens can enter Cyprus visa-free and stay up to 90 days for tourism (in fact, as EU citizens they can stay longer or reside, but formally Cyprus allows 90 days visa-free for any tourist – EU nationals who want to stay beyond 90 days should register as residents).
• Entry requirements: You will need a valid Maltese passport or ID card. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity if you plan to transit through non-EU countries en route (and at least 3 months beyond your stay if transiting a Schengen country, since you might pass via Greece or another Schengen on the way). At entry, you might be asked for a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. Starting in mid-2025, non-EU visitors will require ETIAS authorization, but Maltese citizens are exempt from ETIAS (since they are EU nationals).

Georgia

• Visa policy: Georgia offers one of the longest visa-free periods in the world. Maltese (and all EU citizens) can enter Georgia without a visa for up to 1 year (365 days). This means you can stay visa-free in Georgia for a full year continuously.
• Entry requirements: A valid Maltese passport is required for entry (it should be valid for the duration of your stay). Upon arrival, Georgian authorities typically just stamp your passport. You are generally not asked for onward tickets due to the long allowable stay, but it's prudent to have some travel plans or an address in Georgia to provide if asked. No visa or prior authorization is needed.

Kosovo

• Visa policy: Kosovo allows Maltese citizens to enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. This is similar to the policy of most Balkan countries.
• Entry requirements: You must have a valid Maltese passport. Kosovo border officers may ask about the purpose of your visit and may request to see a document confirming your intent (for example, a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation). Usually, entry is straightforward. Ensure your passport has at least 3 months validity beyond your stay to avoid issues.

Moldova

• Visa policy: Moldova permits visa-free entry to Maltese citizens for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. No visa is needed for short stays.
• Entry requirements: You need a valid Maltese passport (valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure). Border control might check that you have an onward ticket and possibly ask for proof of sufficient funds. It's recommended your passport have six months validity to be safe, though the legal minimum is 3 months beyond the stay.

Monaco

• Visa policy: Monaco has no separate visa regime from France. Maltese travelers enjoy visa-free access and can stay in Monaco up to 90 days (or longer, effectively, since as EU citizens they could reside). For tourism, treat it as 90 days visa-free.
• Entry requirements: There is no border control between Monaco and France (a Schengen country). You'll enter via France, so ensure your passport meets Schengen requirements (valid 90+ days beyond departure from Schengen). Once in Monaco, no further checks occur. A valid Maltese passport or ID is sufficient, along with evidence of onward travel and funds if asked. Since Monaco is tiny and can only be accessed through France, all Schengen entry requirements apply during your transit.

Montenegro

• Visa policy: Montenegro allows Maltese (EU citizens) to visit visa-free for 90 days within a 6-month period. No visa is required for short stays.
• Entry requirements: A valid Maltese passport is required. On arrival, you must register your place of residence with Montenegrin authorities if staying more than 24 hours. Hotels will automatically register you, but if you stay in a private home/Airbnb, you or your host need to register at the local police or tourist office within 24 hours of arrival. Apart from registration, ensure your passport is valid for the duration of stay. You may be asked for a return ticket. Tourist taxes may apply (often collected via accommodation).

North Macedonia

• Visa policy: North Macedonia (Republic of North Macedonia) is visa-free for Maltese visitors for up to 90 days within 6 months.
• Entry requirements: A valid Maltese passport is needed, and it should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay. North Macedonia also requires foreign visitors to have proof of health insurance for the trip. Additionally, all tourists must register with local authorities within 48 hours of arrival. If you stay in a hotel, they handle registration; if staying in a private residence, you must register at the local police station (often your host will assist). Be prepared to show an onward or return ticket at entry.

San Marino

• Visa policy: San Marino has an open border with Italy and requires no visa for Maltese travelers (treated as if you're in Italy). You can visit for up to 90 days or more without any visa.
• Entry requirements: Since San Marino can only be entered from Italy, the main requirement is to meet Italy/Schengen entry requirements. As a Maltese, that means just having your passport/ID (no visa needed). Inside San Marino, there are no border checks. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area (Italy) to be safe. Essentially, if you've entered Italy or any Schengen country, you are free to drive or walk into San Marino. No special documents needed specifically for San Marino.

Serbia

• Visa policy: Serbia allows Maltese (and all EU citizens) to visit visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Entry requirements: A valid Maltese passport is required. On arrival, Serbian authorities will stamp your passport. If you stay longer than 24 hours at a private residence, you must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this for you automatically). Make sure to carry the registration paper (called a "white card") during your stay. Passport validity of 3+ months beyond the stay is recommended. No onward ticket proof is typically asked for EU nationals, but it's good to have one.

Ukraine

• Visa policy: Ukraine permits Maltese citizens to enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies for tourism, family visits, business, etc.
• Entry requirements: You need a valid Maltese passport (valid for the duration of your stay; six months validity is recommended). Ukraine requires visitors to have proof of valid travel health insurance covering their stay. You should also be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds and an onward or return ticket. (Due to the current situation in Ukraine, travel conditions can be affected by security issues, but from a visa standpoint, Maltese nationals do not need a visa.)

Vatican City

• Visa policy: Vatican City is accessible without a visa to Maltese citizens. It effectively functions as part of the Schengen area (open border with Italy). You can stay up to 90 days or less visa-free (though as EU, you could stay longer if needed).
• Entry requirements: There is no border control when entering the Vatican from Italy. Maltese travelers simply need to have entered Italy/Schengen legally (with passport/ID). So the Schengen entry requirements apply: have a valid passport (recommend 6 months validity beyond trip) and no visa is needed. No additional documents are required to visit the Vatican itself, though large bags may be screened by Vatican security at museum or basilica entrances. Essentially, if you're in Rome, you can walk into the Vatican freely.

Other European Territories:

In addition to the countries above, Maltese passport holders can also freely visit European microstates and territories. This includes places like Liechtenstein (in Schengen), Faroe Islands and Greenland (Danish territories – visa-free for EU nationals), Gibraltar (British – visa-free, with passport required), Guernsey/Jersey/Isle of Man (Crown Dependencies – follow UK policy, visa-free 6 months). If traveling to these, the rules are generally similar to the related country (Schengen or UK) – no visa, just bring your passport.

Oceania Region

The Oceania region – comprising the Pacific Islands, Australia, and New Zealand – is a paradise of tropical islands, diverse cultures, and unique natural wonders. Maltese passport holders enjoy broad access to Oceania without prior visas. Many Pacific Island nations welcome Maltese visitors visa-free, and even the larger countries like Australia and New Zealand have convenient electronic authorizations instead of traditional visas. Below, we outline visa policies and entry requirements for Oceania destinations, from Fiji's sun-soaked beaches to the cultural villages of Vanuatu.

Australia

• Visa policy: Australia requires Maltese travelers to obtain an eVisitor authorization (subclass 651) before travel. This is not a paper visa but an electronic visa waiver available online free of charge to EU citizens. The eVisitor allows stays of up to 90 days per visit (multiple visits within a 12-month period). You must be approved for an eVisitor prior to travel – airlines will check that you have it. (Note: the eVisitor is essentially Australia's version of an eTA for EU nationals.)
• Entry requirements: You must apply online for the eVisitor (through the Australian immigration website) and receive approval before flying. Upon arrival, present your valid Maltese passport (the authorization is linked electronically to your passport). Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. Australian immigration may ask to see a return or onward ticket and proof of funds. You might also be asked about your travel plans. Be truthful on the landing card, especially regarding any criminal history or quarantine items. With an approved eVisitor, entry is usually smooth.

Fiji

• Visa policy: Fiji grants Maltese passport holders visa-free entry on arrival for up to 4 months. No pre-arranged visa is needed; you will receive a tourist stay permit upon arrival.
• Entry requirements: You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date from Fiji. Fiji immigration will also ask for proof of onward or return travel (a return ticket) and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. They will stamp your passport for a 4-month stay. If needed, this stay can even be extended in Fiji. Ensure you also have the address of where you're staying to fill in on the arrival card.

Kiribati

• Visa policy: Kiribati allows Maltese (and EU) visitors to enter visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Entry requirements: A Maltese passport valid for at least 6 months is required. On arrival, Kiribati officials will grant entry for 30 days. You should have a return or onward ticket (or the funds to purchase one) and may need to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you'd need to apply for an extension from immigration in Kiribati.

Marshall Islands

• Visa policy: The Marshall Islands grant visa-free entry to Maltese citizens. Formally, it's a 90-day entry permit on arrival (no advance visa required). You can typically stay up to 90 days visa-free.
• Entry requirements: You need a passport with at least 6 months validity. The Marshall Islands authorities also require proof of onward travel. Importantly, proof of measles vaccination is currently required for visitors aged 6 months to 62 years (this rule was instituted in response to measles outbreaks). So carry your vaccination record if applicable. Aside from that, ensure you fill out arrival forms (the airline will provide an entry card and possibly a customs form).

Micronesia (Federated States of Micronesia)

• Visa policy: Micronesia (FSM) is visa-free for Maltese passport holders. You can enter and stay indefinitely for tourism – generally up to 90 days is given, but it's easily extendable and essentially there's no strict visa requirement.
• Entry requirements: You need a passport valid for at least 180 days (6 months) from date of entry. Upon arrival, you will fill out an FSM Immigration Arrival Card and a Customs Form (usually provided on the flight). There's no visa fee or prior application. You should have a return ticket or onward ticket. While FSM allows long stays, if you plan to stay beyond 90 days, you may need to check in with immigration for an extension stamp (in practice, many visits are shorter). Carry proof of accommodation or a contact address.

Note: When visiting remote Pacific nations like Micronesia, always check for any special health requirements. For example, during certain outbreaks (like COVID or measles), entry rules can include showing vaccination proof or test results. The FSM, for instance, has enforced vaccine requirements during outbreaks in the past.

New Zealand

• Visa policy: New Zealand has a visa waiver agreement for Maltese citizens under which no traditional visa is needed for stays up to 3 months. However, Maltese travelers must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travel. The NZeTA is an online authorization similar to a visa waiver; it's mandatory since 2019 for all visa-waiver nationalities. Once you have an approved NZeTA, you can visit New Zealand for up to 90 days.
• Entry requirements: Before your trip, apply for the NZeTA online or via the mobile app and pay the IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy) of NZD $35. The NZeTA process will ask you some eligibility questions (character requirements, etc.). Do this well in advance – while approval is often quick (minutes or hours), it can take a couple of days in some cases. At entry, you must present a passport valid at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand, and evidence of onward travel. New Zealand may also ask for proof of sufficient funds. If your NZeTA was denied for some reason, you would need to obtain a visa, so ensure you have the NZeTA confirmation before departure.

Palau

• Visa policy: Palau is very welcoming. It permits Maltese visitors to enter visa-free and stay up to 90 days (in practice, Palau issues a tourist visa on arrival for up to 30 days, renewable up to 90, but no advance visa is required – EU passports are exempt from visa prior to arrival).
• Entry requirements: A valid passport (with 6 months validity beyond entry) is required. Palau also asks travelers to submit an Electronic Palau Entry Form within 72 hours before arrival. This is essentially a health and travel declaration (as of recent regulations). It can be done online. Upon arrival, you'll get a visa stamp in your passport (no fee) for 30 days, which can be extended to 90 days. You should have a return ticket and may be asked to show it. Palau does not require specific vaccines except during special public health situations.

Samoa

• Visa policy: Samoa allows Maltese travelers to enter visa-free, typically granting an entry permit for 60 days (about 2 months) on arrival. You do not need to arrange a visa beforehand.
• Entry requirements: You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip. On arrival, Samoan immigration will issue a 60-day entry stamp. They will require that you have an onward or return ticket, and you may need to show proof of accommodation bookings. During the COVID-19 era, Samoa had additional health requirements (like vaccination proofs and testing), so check the latest health advisories. Normally, there's no visa fee for entry.

Solomon Islands

• Visa policy: Solomon Islands grant visa-free entry for up to 90 days to Maltese citizens. No prior visa is required; a visitor permit is issued on arrival.
• Entry requirements: A passport with at least 6 months validity is required. You will receive an entry stamp upon arrival (usually 30 days, extendable to 90). Ensure you have a return ticket and sufficient funds. It's also recommended to have proof of accommodation or an invitation letter if staying with someone. The Solomon Islands may deny entry if you cannot demonstrate the purpose of your visit and means to support yourself, though this is uncommon for tourists.

Tonga

• Visa policy: Tonga allows Maltese passport holders to visit without a visa for up to 90 days (the exact duration may be 31 days initially with extension to 90, but effectively no pre-visa needed).
• Entry requirements: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months on entry. Tongan immigration will stamp you in, generally for 31 days which can be extended up to 3 months. You must have an onward or return ticket. Proof of funds isn't always asked, but it's wise to have evidence of sufficient money for your stay. Tonga, like other Pacific nations, may have had COVID-related entry requirements recently, so check if any health declaration or vaccination proof is needed. Normally, entry is straightforward for EU nationals.

Tuvalu

• Visa policy: Tuvalu effectively treats EU visitors as visa-free. Upon arrival, you can get up to 90 days permission (Tuvalu issues a visa on arrival to everyone, since there's no embassy visa, but it's visa-free in the sense of no prior visa). Maltese travelers do not need to apply in advance.
• Entry requirements: A passport valid for at least 6 months is required. You'll be asked to show a return/onward ticket. Tuvalu's immigration will stamp a 30-day stay (often extendable up to 90 days). There is no fee for this for EU citizens. Ensure you have proof of accommodation (for such a small country, they like to know where you plan to stay). As with many islands, flights are infrequent, so keep your travel itinerary handy to explain your exit plans.

Vanuatu

• Visa policy: Vanuatu grants 90 days visa-free to Maltese (and all EU) visitors. No visa is needed for tourism for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Entry requirements: A Maltese passport valid for 6 months beyond the stay is recommended. Vanuatu will stamp you in for 30 or 90 days depending on tickets (commonly 30 days, extendable to 90). You should have an onward ticket and may be asked to show funds (Vanuatu immigration sometimes asks visitors to prove they have at least about $200 USD per day if staying in hotels, less if staying with family). In practice, showing a credit card and a general idea of your travel suffices. Currently, Vanuatu also requires travelers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have exemptions as per their latest travel advisory (this can change).

Other Oceania Territories:

Maltese travelers can also visit various territories in Oceania visa-free:

• American Samoa (USA territory): Requires a U.S. ESTA (since it's covered by the U.S. visa waiver program). With an approved ESTA, Maltese can visit American Samoa for up to 30 days.
• Guam and Northern Mariana Islands (USA territories): Also covered under the U.S. visa waiver – require ESTA approval. Once you have ESTA, you can travel to Guam or Saipan/Tinian (N. Marianas) visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Cook Islands and Niue (in free association with New Zealand): Visa-free for Maltese. Cook Islands allows 31 days initially, and Niue allows 30 days on arrival, both easily extendable.
• New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis & Futuna (French territories): Maltese can travel here visa-free (France grants visa exemption to EU citizens for its overseas territories). Typically 90-day stays are allowed, and you may need an onward ticket.
• Norfolk Island (Australian external territory): effectively covered by Australia's visa policy – with an Australian eVisitor, you can visit Norfolk.
• Pitcairn Islands (UK territory): no visa required, but getting there usually involves special arrangements by sea.

Each of these territories might have slight entry quirks (for example, Pitcairn charges a landing fee, and French Polynesia has its own entry card you fill out). But none require Maltese visitors to obtain visas in advance.

Asia

Asia offers an incredible variety of cultures and destinations – from the great cities of the Far East to the tropical beaches of Southeast Asia and the historic sites of the Middle East.

A Malta passport opens doors throughout Asia, often with no visa or a quick visa on arrival. Below we cover Asian regions (East, Southeast, South, and Central Asia, as well as parts of the Middle East) where Maltese citizens can travel without prior visas. We'll detail how long you can stay and what to prepare for entry in each country.

Japan

• Visa policy: Japan allows Maltese citizens to enter visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business meetings. No visa is required in advance.
• Entry requirements: You need a valid Maltese passport and a return or onward ticket (Japan almost always checks for an onward ticket for tourists). Your passport will be stamped with a "Temporary Visitor" permit for 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of stay (6 months validity is recommended). You may also be asked to provide the address in Japan where you will be staying (hotel name or friend's address) on the disembarkation card. Japan will take your fingerprints and photo at immigration as part of their normal procedure for foreigners. No visa, fee, or prior registration is needed.

South Korea

• Visa policy: South Korea (Republic of Korea) grants Maltese visitors 90 days of visa-free entry under its visa waiver program. However, travelers must obtain a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) online before travel (as of 2022, South Korea made K-ETA mandatory for visa-free entrants).
• Entry requirements: Before flying, Maltese citizens should apply for the K-ETA online (fill out a form and pay a small fee). The K-ETA, once approved (usually within 24-48 hours), is valid for multiple trips over 2 years. Upon arrival in Korea, present your passport (the K-ETA is linked electronically). Immigration may ask for your planned address in Korea and onward ticket. Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay. With K-ETA, you'll receive entry for 90 days. Note: As of 2024, there were discussions to waive K-ETA for some nationals, but until officially changed, Maltese should plan to get K-ETA.

China (PRC)

• Visa policy: China generally requires visas for EU citizens, but currently (from Nov 30, 2024 until Dec 31, 2025) China has a temporary visa-free policy for Maltese citizens for stays up to 30 days. This special visa waiver was introduced to boost travel and is time-limited. Outside of this period or for stays beyond 30 days, a visa would normally be required.
• Entry requirements: During the visa-free window, Maltese travelers need a passport valid for at least 6 months and a return ticket dated within 30 days. You may also be asked to show hotel bookings or an itinerary. Registering your stay after arrival (at hotels or local police if staying in a private home) is required within 24 hours. If arriving by air and staying under 144 hours, certain Chinese cities also have transit visa waivers, but the 30-day special waiver covers general visits. Be aware that this policy could change after 2025 if not renewed, so always double-check if Malta is still on China's visa-free list by the time of travel.

Hong Kong (SAR of China)

• Visa policy: Hong Kong offers visa-free entry for 90 days to Maltese passport holders (as it does for most EU citizens).
• Entry requirements: Present your Maltese passport (valid for at least 1 month beyond your intended stay, though 6 months validity is recommended). You'll be granted a 90-day permission stamp on arrival. Hong Kong officials may ask for evidence of onward travel (especially if you might continue to mainland China or elsewhere) and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. In practice, it's rare to be questioned beyond a few basic questions. No prior visa or authorization is needed.

Macao (SAR of China)

• Visa policy: Macau (Macao) allows Maltese citizens to enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Entry requirements: A valid passport is required (with at least 1 month validity beyond stay). Macau immigration will stamp a stay (typically 90 days for EU citizens). Similar to Hong Kong, you might be asked to show a return/onward ticket and possibly a hotel reservation. There is no entry fee or prior application. If you plan to go from Macau to mainland China, note that China's separate visa rules apply there (the 30-day China visa-free deal, if active, or a China visa would be needed).

Singapore

• Visa policy: Singapore grants 90 days visa-free entry to Maltese passport holders.
• Entry requirements: You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry and a confirmed onward or return ticket. Singapore's Immigration card (now often electronic) will need to be completed, noting your address in Singapore. Upon entry, you'll get a stamp (or electronic entry pass) allowing 90 days stay. You may be asked at immigration to show proof of funds or a credit card, though this is not common for EU visitors. Singapore has very strict laws about prohibited items (no chewing gum for resale, etc.) and security, so ensure you're not carrying anything disallowed. No visa or prior authorization needed.

Malaysia

• Visa policy: Malaysia is visa-free for Maltese travelers for 90 days.
• Entry requirements: A valid passport (6 months validity remaining) is needed. You will receive a 90-day entry stamp. Malaysia may require you to show your onward ticket. Occasionally, officers ask to see cash or credit cards to ensure you can fund your stay (especially for longer stays). Ensure you do not overstay the 90 days, as penalties can be strict. No prior visa is needed.

Thailand

• Visa policy: Thailand allows Maltese (and all EU) tourists to enter visa-free for 30 days if arriving by air (and 15 days if by land). However, Thailand periodically extends the visa-free stay duration as a tourism promotion – for example, at times they have extended it to 45 days. At present, assume 30 days on arrival can be granted.
• Entry requirements: A Maltese passport with 6 months validity is required. You will get a 30-day entry stamp. You must have proof of onward travel within 30 days (Thailand is quite strict that you should have a flight departing before the 30-day mark, otherwise the airline might not let you board without a visa). You may also be asked to show 20,000 Thai Baht (or equivalent ~€500) in funds at the border as proof of sufficient funds – this is a rule for tourists, though it's not always enforced, it can be, so be prepared (cash or bank statement). No visa needed prior, but Thailand does limit total visa-free entries per year (land entries in particular) to prevent border run misuse. For a longer stay, one could get a tourist visa or extend once by 30 days at immigration in Thailand.

Indonesia

• Visa policy: Indonesia currently offers Visa on Arrival (VoA) for Maltese citizens (as well as an e-VOA option online). Fully visa-free entry was suspended for most countries; instead a VoA is available which is essentially obtained at the airport for a USD $35 fee, valid 30 days and extendable once.
• Entry requirements: Arriving Maltese travelers must pay for the VoA at a designated counter (if not obtained online beforehand). The passport must be valid 6+ months and you must have a return or onward ticket. The VoA will allow a 30-day stay. If you prefer, you can apply for an e-VOA online before traveling to save time at the airport. In either case, ensure you carry the credit card/cash for fee payment. Indonesia also still requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry (as of early 2025) – check the latest rules. While this is technically a visa on arrival (not completely visa-free), no embassy visit is needed, and the process is quick at the airport.

Philippines

• Visa policy: Philippines allows Maltese (and most Europeans) to enter visa-free for 30 days. This can be extended in-country if needed.
• Entry requirements: A passport with at least 6 months validity remaining and a return or onward ticket (within 30 days) are required. Philippine immigration will grant a 30-day stay. If you plan to stay longer, you can apply at a Bureau of Immigration office in the Philippines for extensions (you can extend up to 59 days on the first extension, and further up to 1-2 years in total with successive extensions). But initially, come with an onward ticket dated within 30 days – airlines will check this before boarding to Manila. No visa needed prior to travel.

Vietnam

• Visa policy: Vietnam does not currently offer visa-free entry to Maltese citizens. (Vietnam has unilateral visa exemption for a handful of European countries like France, Italy, Germany for 15 days, but Malta is not on that list.) Maltese travelers must obtain an e-Visa online before travel, which allows 30 days, single entry. (This is technically not visa-free, so Vietnam is not in the "visa-free/VoA" list for Malta.)
• Entry requirements: If visiting Vietnam, Maltese must apply for a 30-day e-Visa via the official government portal. Once approved, print the e-Visa approval to show airlines and immigration. Passport validity of 6+ months and an onward ticket are required. Because this is not visa-free, Vietnam is not counted among the 188 visa-free destinations for Malta.

(For completeness, other countries in Southeast Asia not yet mentioned like Brunei (visa-free 90 days), Laos (visa on arrival/e-visa for 30 days), Cambodia (visa on arrival/e-visa 30 days), Myanmar (e-visa required), and Timor-Leste (visa-free 90 days). Brunei is visa-free for Malta, so you can stay 90 days without visa. Laos and Cambodia both issue visa on arrival for Maltese (expect to pay a fee, bring passport photos). Timor-Leste, as noted earlier, appears to allow 90-day stays visa-free, likely stamping on arrival. For any country where a visa on arrival is needed (Laos, Cambodia, etc.), ensure you have some USD cash and a photo for the application at the border.)

India

• Visa policy: India is not visa-free for Maltese travelers. India requires an e-Visa obtained before travel for tourism, which is a straightforward online process but must be done in advance. (We include India here for awareness: do not attempt to travel without an e-visa, as visa on arrival is not available for Maltese.)
• Entry requirements: If traveling to India, apply for an e-Tourist Visa on the official Indian government site, print the approval, and carry it with your passport. Since this is not visa-free, India is not counted among the 188 visa-free destinations for Malta.

Turkey

• Visa policy: Turkey has abolished visa requirements for Maltese citizens. Maltese passport holders can visit Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days. (Turkey in 2020 waived visas for several EU countries, including Malta.)
• Entry requirements: A Maltese passport valid for at least 5 months from entry (Turkey requires 150 days validity on passports for many nationals including EU). No visa or e-visa is needed – you will be stamped in for a 90-day allowance. You should have an onward or return ticket and might be asked to show it. Also, you may need to show a address of stay (hotel booking) and funds if questioned, though it's typically not asked systematically. Enjoy your stay in Turkey up to 3 months visa-free.

Israel

• Visa policy: Israel provides visa-free entry for 90 days to Maltese citizens. Tourism, family visits, and business meetings can be done without a prior visa.
• Entry requirements: A passport valid for at least 6 months from entry is recommended. Upon arrival, Israel does not stamp passports; instead you'll receive a small blue entry card (keep this with your passport during your stay). You must have an onward ticket and may be questioned by immigration about your trip purpose and itinerary (Israel's security screening is known to be thorough). Have details ready (where you will stay, whom you might visit). If you have evidence of recent travel to certain other countries (like an entry stamp from Lebanon or Syria), be prepared for additional questions. There is no visa fee. Stays are given for 90 days. Keep the entry slip, as you'll need to show it upon exit.

Jordan

• Visa policy: Jordan offers Maltese travelers a Visa on Arrival for tourism, valid for 30 days, at nearly all entry points (except Allenby/King Hussein Bridge). This is essentially visa-free in practice since no pre-visa is needed.
• Entry requirements: Your passport must be valid 6 months. The visa on arrival costs 40 Jordanian Dinar (around €50). If you plan to visit Petra and other sites, consider buying the Jordan Pass online before arrival; if you stay 3+ nights, the Jordan Pass waives the visa fee (and covers entry to major attractions). At entry, you'll fill a small form and pay for the visa (unless you have the Jordan Pass). You should have an onward ticket and might be asked your accommodation details. Jordan also requires travellers coming from certain countries to have a Yellow Fever certificate (not applicable if you're coming from Europe). The VOA process is quick and straightforward at the airport.

Saudi Arabia

• Visa policy: Saudi Arabia has opened up to tourism. Maltese citizens are eligible for an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival for tourism, valid for multiple entries up to 90 days each, within a 1-year period. No embassy visa is required if traveling for tourism.
• Entry requirements: E-Visa is recommended – apply on the official portal before your trip. The process is fast and you'll receive a PDF visa. Alternatively, if arriving by air into Saudi, Maltese can obtain a visa on arrival at kiosks (as long as you're flying on Saudia or another qualifying airline, according to current policy). The fee is around 300 SAR plus insurance cost. You need a passport with 6+ months validity. Saudi Arabia also mandates travel medical insurance (the visa portal usually includes the insurance purchase in the process). On arrival, you may be asked to show the visa (printout or on phone) and your accommodation bookings. The dress code norms and other cultural rules should be respected, but there is no longer a requirement for a sponsor or guided tour – independent travel is allowed with the tourist visa.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• Visa policy: The UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.) grants Maltese (EU) visitors visa-free entry for 90 days within any 180-day period. This is under an EU-UAE agreement.
• Entry requirements: A passport with at least 6 months validity is required. Upon arrival, immigration will stamp you with a 90-day visit authorization (usually noted as "90 days" on the entry stamp). They may ask if it's your first time and verify you haven't exceeded 90 days in the past 180. Generally, no questions are asked beyond a polite welcome. Ensure you have an onward ticket (the airline will usually check this when you depart for the UAE). No visa or fee is needed. You may be asked to show a hotel reservation or address, though it's rarely required. Keep track of your length of stay; overstaying can result in fines.

Qatar

• Visa policy: Qatar allows Maltese citizens to enter under a visa waiver on arrival, good for 90 days, multiple-entry. This is free and valid for tourism or business.
• Entry requirements: You must have a passport with at least 6 months validity and a return or onward ticket. At immigration, they will issue a visa waiver entry stamp for 90 days free of charge. You may be asked to show proof of accommodation. Currently, Qatar also requires visitors to register for an online travel authorization called "Ehteraz" (primarily a COVID-era requirement, which may be phased out). Check the latest rules before travel. Essentially, no visa application is needed – it's granted on arrival provided you meet the conditions (passport validity, onward ticket, etc.).

Bahrain

• Visa policy: Bahrain offers Maltese visitors visa on arrival or eVisa options. Maltese can get a 14-day visa on arrival (extendable to 30 days), or apply for an eVisa for a longer stay (typically 1 month).
• Entry requirements: If obtaining on arrival, approach the visa counter at the airport. The fee is around 5 Bahraini Dinar for 2 weeks. If you need longer, the eVisa (one-month, multiple entry) can be applied for online before your trip. Passport needs to be valid 6 months. They might ask for an onward ticket. It's a smooth process. For a short trip, you can simply do VOA. Note: Bahrain sometimes allows GCC residents or certain nationals longer stays; but for Maltese, assume 14 days on arrival unless an eVisa for longer is secured.

Kuwait

• Visa policy: Kuwait provides a visa on arrival (or eVisa) for EU citizens including Malta, permitting a stay up to 3 months.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months, and a fee of about 3 Kuwaiti Dinar for the VOA. You can skip lines by getting an eVisa online before travel (valid for the same duration). At Kuwait airport, kiosks for eVisa/VOA are available. You'll need to provide fingerprints/biometrics. Ensure you have an onward ticket. Kuwait may also want to see a hotel booking or sponsor's address. Once issued, the visit visa is typically for 90 days. No prior embassy visa needed.

Lebanon

• Visa policy: Lebanon grants visa on arrival free of charge to EU citizens (including Maltese), for a stay up to 1 month (extendable to 3 months).
• Entry requirements: A Maltese passport valid for 6+ months and no evidence of a trip to Israel (Lebanon will deny entry if your passport has an Israeli stamp or visa). The visa on arrival process at Beirut Airport is straightforward and free for EU nationals. You will fill out a small form. They may ask for a contact address in Lebanon and proof of funds or onward travel (not commonly asked, but officially one should have $2000 USD and a hotel booking or invite – in practice, showing a credit card and naming your hotel is fine). You'll get a stamp for one month. You can extend at Security General office in Beirut for up to 3 months total. No prior visa required.

Other Middle East (West Asia) Destinations:

• Iran: As noted, Iran offers visa on arrival to many EU nationals at certain airports for 30 days, but given the need for an e-visa application and current travel advisories, it's not as straightforward. (Not visa-free; requires planning.)
• Iraq: The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (northern Iraq) is visa-free on arrival for EU citizens for 30 days. Federal Iraq now also offers visa on arrival for many Western nationals including Maltese, for 60 days, but one should exercise caution traveling there.
• Oman: Oman reinstated visa on arrival (14 days free) for citizens of 103 countries including Malta in 2021. So Maltese can visit Oman visa-free for 2 weeks (or apply online for a longer stay visa). Make sure to have a hotel booking and onward ticket if availing the 14-day free stay.
• Palestinian Territories: If visiting the West Bank, entry is via Israel or Jordan (no separate visa needed, follow their rules). For Gaza, entry is heavily restricted.

North America

North America includes the vast nations of Canada and the United States, which have some of the world's most visited cities and natural parks. While these countries require travel authorizations, Maltese passport holders benefit from being part of the Visa Waiver Program (USA) and a visa-exempt agreement with Canada. This means no embassy visas are needed – just simple online applications before your trip. Here's what Malta citizens need to know for visiting North America:

United States of America (USA)

• Visa policy: The USA allows Maltese citizens to visit for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Instead of a visa, you must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) online prior to travel. The ESTA, once approved, is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries, each up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit.
• Entry requirements: You must apply for ESTA online (fee $21) ideally 72 hours before departure. Ensure you answer all VWP eligibility questions truthfully (e.g., no serious criminal convictions, not visited certain countries of concern, etc.). You need a biometric Maltese passport (which all modern Malta passports are). Upon arrival in the U.S., you will go through the normal immigration inspection. You should have an address in the U.S. to give (hotel or friend's residence), and you may be asked for evidence of ties to Malta or onward travel (usually return ticket suffices). Your passport will be stamped with a date by which you must depart (typically 90 days from arrival). Note that as of January 2025, the US requires all VWP travelers to have an ESTA – there's no option to travel without it. Also, ensure you have not overstayed or been denied entry before, as that could invalidate your ESTA. With a valid ESTA, Maltese travelers can also visit Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and Northern Mariana Islands under the same authorization (these territories follow U.S. immigration law).
• COVID-19 note: The US lifted its COVID vaccination requirement for incoming travelers in May 2023, so as of 2025, you do not need to show proof of vaccination or test to enter the US.

Canada

• Visa policy: Canada does not require visas for Maltese visitors coming for short stays (up to 6 months). However, arriving by air, Maltese nationals must have an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) prior to boarding a flight to Canada. If arriving by land or sea (ferry, driving from the US), no eTA is required. The eTA is a quick online authorization similar to ESTA.
• Entry requirements: Apply for the eTA online (cost $7 CAD) and link it to your passport before you fly. It's usually approved within minutes, but do it in advance in case of any delay. At the Canadian port of entry, you need a passport valid for the duration of your stay. You may be granted up to 6 months entry stamp (most visitors get a 6-month stay by default). Canada immigration may ask about your trip plans, so have an address and perhaps a rough itinerary. Proof of funds or a return ticket might be asked for, especially if you plan to stay several months. As of 2025, Canada has removed COVID-19 entry restrictions, so no tests or vaccine proofs are required. Remember that if you plan to transit via the US to Canada, you'd need a U.S. ESTA as well, since the U.S. handles pre-clearance for some Canada flights and any land entry from the U.S. requires you to have been admitted to the U.S. first. But going directly to Canada with an eTA is straightforward.

(Note: Mexico and the countries of Central America are covered in the next section, as they are often grouped as Latin America. Technically, Mexico is part of North America geographically, but here we follow the structure where Mexico is in the Central America section.)

Central America

Central America – the narrow land bridge connecting North and South America – is a popular destination for its rich Mayan history, rainforests, and beaches. For Maltese travelers, the entire Central American region is visa-free. From the ruins of Guatemala to the Panama Canal, Maltese passport holders can explore these countries without needing to arrange visas in advance. Here's a rundown for each:

Mexico

• Visa policy: Mexico allows Maltese citizens to enter visa-free for up to 180 days for tourism or business. Additionally, Maltese who have a valid US visa or Schengen visa can also enter Mexico visa-free using those (but this is not needed since Malta is already visa-exempt by itself).
• Entry requirements: A valid passport (6 months recommended). You will fill out an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) immigration form (often handed out on the plane or at the border) and typically pay a tourism tax (often included in your airfare). At entry, Mexican immigration will stamp your passport and write the number of days granted (could be any number up to 180; usually they grant the maximum 180 days). Ensure you keep the FMM card stub, as you must surrender it when leaving or face a fine. You should have an address in Mexico (hotel) to put on the form, and you may be asked to show a return ticket. Proof of funds is rarely requested, but be prepared in case. No visa needed in advance.

Belize

• Visa policy: Belize grants visa-free entry for up to 30 days to Maltese (Commonwealth citizens). This can be extended in country.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months. You will need to show an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds (Belize officially asks for proof of $75 USD per day). At the border, you'll fill out an arrival form. They typically stamp 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, you can visit an immigration office in Belize to extend your stay monthly for a fee. Upon leaving Belize (by land or air), note there's an exit fee of around $20-40 USD depending on the exit point (often included in airfare if flying). No prior visa required.

Guatemala

• Visa policy: Guatemala is part of the CA-4 agreement (with El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua). Maltese can enter Guatemala visa-free for up to 90 days, and this 90-day period is shared among all CA-4 countries.
• Entry requirements: A valid passport (6 months validity recommended). You'll get a 90-day entry stamp that is valid for Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua combined. That means if you spend, say, 30 days in Guatemala then go to El Salvador, you have 60 days left, etc. At entry, they may ask your purpose (tourism) and length of stay. It's good to have an onward or return ticket (if flying in) or an idea of your travel plans. Extensions: You can extend the 90-day CA-4 stay by an additional 90 days one-time by applying in one of these countries' immigration offices. No visa required beforehand.

El Salvador

• Visa policy: El Salvador is also in the CA-4. No visa needed for Maltese; the same 90-day regional entry applies.
• Entry requirements: Passport and typically they will just use the remaining days from your CA-4 90-day total if you came from a neighboring country. If El Salvador is your first entry to the region, you'll get up to 90 days. El Salvador sometimes charges a small entry tourist card fee (usually $10) upon arrival by air – this is essentially a tourist fee, not a visa. By land, often no fee is charged. Proof of onward travel is recommended. Ensure to depart or extend before the 90 days CA-4 limit.

Honduras

• Visa policy: Honduras – also CA-4 member – visa-free 90 days for Maltese.
• Entry requirements: Same CA-4 considerations. Passport, onward ticket (especially if flying in to Tegucigalpa or San Pedro Sula, they might ask for onward proof). No separate visa. Just be mindful of the total days if coming from another CA-4 country. Honduras might also charge a nominal entry fee for tourists (around $3) at land borders.

Nicaragua

• Visa policy: Nicaragua – CA-4 member – visa-free 90 days for Maltese. However, note Nicaragua charges a US$10 tourist card fee on arrival (payable in cash).
• Entry requirements: Passport (6-month validity). If coming directly into Nicaragua as first stop, you pay $10 for the tourist card and they stamp you for up to 90 days (CA-4). If coming from neighbors, you pay the fee at that land crossing. You should have proof of onward travel (Nicaraguan officials can be strict about seeing a ticket out of the CA-4 region). They may also ask if you have sufficient funds, but generally not if you have a return ticket and hotel booked. No advance visa needed.

Costa Rica

• Visa policy: Costa Rica grants Maltese citizens 90 days visa-free as a standard.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid for at least one day on entry (but airlines will require 6 months, so have 6 months to be safe). Costa Rica strictly requires proof of onward travel (they will deny boarding if you don't have a ticket exiting Costa Rica or onward by land out of Central America). So, have a return flight or bus ticket. At immigration, you'll typically get 90 days. They may ask where you're staying (have an address or hotel name). Since 2022, Costa Rica no longer requires health insurance or COVID tests for tourists, so just normal entry now. No visa required.

Panama

• Visa policy: Panama allows Maltese visitors 180 days visa-free for tourism.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 3+ months beyond entry (by law; 6 months recommended). Panama requires proof of onward passage (a ticket out of Panama or out of the region) and evidence of at least $500 (or a credit card). Often, the officer may just ask "How are you leaving?" or "Do you have a credit card to show?" So have a copy of your onward flight or bus booking. Panama will stamp typically 90 days or 180 days depending on officer's discretion (the law allows up to 180). If you need more time, extensions are possible but usually 180 is enough. No visa needed, but do note that if you transit through the USA to get to Panama, you'll need a U.S. ESTA.

Caribbean

The Caribbean is a dream destination of islands scattered in turquoise waters. Maltese passport holders can visit practically every Caribbean island visa-free, whether independent nations or overseas territories. From the Bahamas in the north to Trinidad in the south, a Malta passport offers hassle-free entry, usually for 90 days or more. Below we list each Caribbean country or territory accessible without a visa, along with any entry formalities:

Antigua and Barbuda

• Visa policy: Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Maltese (Commonwealth) citizens visa-free for up to 180 days (typically, immigration will stamp 1 to 3 months, extendable up to 6 months total).
• Entry requirements: Passport valid for 6 months, a return or onward ticket, and confirmation of accommodation. At the border, you may need to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Antigua's officials often ask to see a booking or invitation and may query your intended length of stay. Ensure you have an address to provide. Entry is usually easy; they'll stamp a stay (often 90 days by default). If you want to stay longer up to 6 months, you can request an extension at their immigration department.

Bahamas

• Visa policy: The Bahamas allows Maltese visitors visa-free entry for up to 3 months (90 days).
• Entry requirements: You need a passport valid for duration of stay (6 months recommended) and proof of onward travel. The Bahamas also requires visitors to show proof of sufficient funds, though typically a credit card and a casual declaration of tourism suffices. On arrival, immigration will stamp up to 90 days. You must also fill out an arrival/departure card. Currently, no travel health visa or COVID test is required (as those were lifted). Just ensure you don't overstay the 90 days without a permit extension.

Barbados

• Visa policy: Barbados grants Maltese (and all EU) travelers visa-free access for up to 180 days (6 months).
• Entry requirements: Passport validity for length of stay. You'll need to show a return ticket. Barbados immigration may ask where you're staying and for how long. They typically stamp 3 months to 6 months at their discretion (since EU nationals are allowed 180 days). Proof of onward travel is mandatory – they will not let you enter on a one-way ticket. They might also ask if you have sufficient funds, but usually not if you have a return ticket and hotel booked. Ensure you keep the immigration card stub for departure.

Dominica

• Visa policy: Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) permits Maltese nationals visa-free entry for up to 6 months.
• Entry requirements: Passport (valid for 6 months), and an onward ticket. Dominica is very welcoming; you receive an initial stamp (often 21 days or 1 month) and if you wish to stay longer up to 6 months, you may need to visit their immigration to extend (they usually allow the full 6 months for Commonwealth citizens). You'll need to demonstrate you can support yourself (proof of funds or credit card). A departure tax (~EC $86, about USD $33) is collected when leaving Dominica (often included in airfare).

Dominican Republic

• Visa policy: Dominican Republic allows Maltese and most travelers to enter visa-free for 30 days with a Tourist Card (in the past, one had to purchase a $10 tourist card on arrival, but nowadays this fee is included in airline tickets).
• Entry requirements: Passport valid for duration of stay. If arriving by air, the $10 tourist fee is included in your airfare automatically, so you simply go through immigration where they stamp you for 30 days. By land/sea, you might have to purchase the card. You need an onward/return ticket and may be asked to show it. As of recent years, the DR has an e-ticket system: travelers must fill out an online entry and exit form (e-ticket) before arrival – it generates a QR code to show at customs. Make sure to complete that. You can extend your stay beyond 30 days by paying for an extension when you depart (fees scale with length of overstay, around US$50 for 30-90 extra days, etc.). They generally do not hassle tourists; many stay 60 days and just pay a small overstay fee at airport on exit. No formal visa needed in advance.

Grenada

• Visa policy: Grenada is visa-free for Maltese for up to 90 days (and can be extended – in fact as a Commonwealth citizen you could stay up to 6 months with extension).
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months, onward ticket, and address of stay. Grenada's immigration will stamp typically 3 months initially. If you want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension at the immigration office in St. George's. They require showing funds and local accommodation. It's straightforward; just don't overstay without extension as fines apply. No visa needed beforehand.

Haiti

• Visa policy: Haiti permits Maltese (EU) travelers to visit visa-free for 90 days.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months, and you must pay a tourist fee of US$10 on arrival (cash). Haiti currently also requires proof of full COVID-19 vaccination for entry (or a negative test) – check latest health rules. Immigration will stamp 90 days. They might ask for an address in Haiti and onward ticket. There is also a departure fee (~$10) when leaving, often included in airline tickets. Given security considerations in Haiti, ensure you have local contacts or arrangements if you plan to visit.

Jamaica

• Visa policy: Jamaica is visa-exempt for 90 days for Maltese visitors.
• Entry requirements: Passport (valid to end of stay), return/onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds (not usually asked explicitly, but you should have access to funds). Jamaican immigration will stamp typically 90 days. They will require you to fill out a landing card and state where you're staying. No visa needed prior. If you need more than 90 days, you would need to seek an extension from Jamaican immigration authorities. Departure tax is usually included in airfare.

St. Kitts and Nevis

• Visa policy: Saint Kitts and Nevis allows visa-free visits up to 90 days for Maltese nationals.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months, onward/return ticket, and proof of accommodation. At entry you get up to 3 months. You should also have evidence of sufficient funds (credit card or cash); immigration may ask, although typically for tourist stays they do not. It's straightforward for EU travelers. No visa needed ahead of time.

St. Lucia

• Visa policy: Saint Lucia grants Maltese passport holders visa-free entry for up to 6 weeks (42 days).
• Entry requirements: Passport valid for your stay, onward ticket, and accommodation booking. You'll fill out an arrival form. If you wish to stay longer than 6 weeks, you can extend up to 3 months total by application on-island. Typically, immigration will stamp exactly 42 days. Ensure you don't overstay without extension to avoid fines. No pre-visa required.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Visa policy: St. Vincent and the Grenadines is visa-free for 1 month for Maltese (extendable to 6 months with permission).
• Entry requirements: Passport, onward ticket, and address of stay. You will get an initial stamp (often 30 days). If you want to stay up to 90 or 180 days, you'd visit their immigration headquarters in Kingstown to request an extension. They require showing funds and reason. For a standard tourist, 1 month is usually sufficient. No visa needed in advance.

Trinidad and Tobago

• Visa policy: Trinidad and Tobago permits Maltese visitors 90 days visa-free.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months, onward ticket, and sometimes proof of financial means. Trinidad immigration may ask a couple questions about your visit and ensure you have an address in Trinidad/Tobago. You get up to 90 days on entry. They have been known to be a bit strict about onward tickets because of people staying to work, so make sure you have that covered. No visa required.

British Overseas Territories in the Caribbean:

Maltese citizens, by virtue of visa-free access to the UK, also enjoy visa-free entry to the following British territories in the Caribbean (generally 30 to 90 days permission on arrival):

• Anguilla – visa-free, usually up to 90 days.
• Bermuda – visa-free for up to 6 months (though geographically in the Atlantic, often grouped with the Caribbean).
• British Virgin Islands (BVI) – visa-free, typically 30 days (can extend up to 6 months).
• Cayman Islands – visa-free, usually 60 days permission (and can be extended to 6 months).
• Montserrat – visa-free, typically 90 days.
• Turks and Caicos Islands – visa-free for 90 days.

For these territories, entry requirements generally mirror each other: passport, onward ticket, accommodation proof. For example, the Cayman Islands ask that you either are a resident of the United States, Canada, UK or have a valid visa for those, or you must arrive directly from your home country or such country – Maltese qualify, but if you were coming via the US, ensure you have a US visa or ESTA. In essence, coming directly or via the UK is smooth. Turks and Caicos explicitly allow 90 days and require your passport validity to cover your stay.

Also note: Caribbean Netherlands (Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius) are special municipalities of the Netherlands. Maltese can enter these visa-free for 90 days, independent of Schengen (and in fact, as of 2024, the Netherlands allows up to 6 months in a 12-month period in the Caribbean Netherlands for EU nationals). Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten – as constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands – also allow EU citizens visa-free (typically 90 days, and possibility to extend to 180 days in a year). For Curaçao, you need to complete a Digital Immigration Card online pre-arrival. French West Indies (Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Martin (French side), St. Barthélemy) – as departments/collectivities of France – are accessible just like France: visa-free 90 days. Saint-Pierre and Miquelon (near Canada) is French – visa-free for Maltese as well.

In summary, nearly every island in the Caribbean is open to Maltese visitors without prior visas. Just remember to carry your passport, have a return ticket, and be mindful of each locale's allowed stay length and any entry fees or taxes. Enjoy the Caribbean sun and hospitality with the convenience your Maltese passport provides!

South America

From the snow-capped Andes to the Amazon rainforest, South America is a continent of adventure – and a Maltese passport grants extensive access here as well. Many South American countries have abolished visas for EU nationals, meaning Maltese travelers can roam freely for tourism. A few countries require an eVisa or have other considerations (like Venezuela's situation), but the majority are visa-free. Let's go country by country:

Argentina

• Visa policy: Argentina allows Maltese (EU) travelers visa-free entry for 90 days.
• Entry requirements: A passport valid for the duration of stay (6 months recommended). You will get a 90-day entry stamp upon arrival. Argentina does not require an onward ticket by law, but airlines might – it's good to have a printout of an onward booking. No visa needed. Simply clear immigration where they may ask your intended address (you can say a hotel or general travel around). There is no entry fee for EU citizens (reciprocity fees for US/Canada have been suspended). Ensure your passport is stamped; Argentina may fine for overstays if beyond 90 days.

Bolivia

• Visa policy: Bolivia permits Maltese visitors visa on arrival for 90 days (Bolivia groups Malta in "Group 2" which requires a visa on arrival at no cost for tourists). Practically, this is visa-free as you don't need to arrange it beforehand.
• Entry requirements: Passport with 6 months validity, and an onward ticket. At the border or airport, you'll fill out a form and get an entry stamp (often for 30 days initially). Bolivia allows 90 days total in a year for tourists, so if they stamp 30 days, you can extend twice up to 90 at immigration offices. If you tell the officer your intention (e.g., 60 days), they might stamp accordingly. No fee is required for EU nationals. It's wise to carry a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you plan to travel to endemic areas (if arriving from such areas, it's required). No prior visa application needed.

Brazil

• Visa policy: Brazil currently allows Maltese and other EU citizens visa-free entry for 90 days (extendable to 180 days per year). (Brazil had considered re-imposing visas for some countries in 2024, but EU countries remain visa-exempt under current reciprocity agreements.)
• Entry requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months. You'll get a stamp on entry valid for 90 days, and you can request an extension up to another 90 days from the Federal Police in Brazil if needed, not exceeding 180 days total in a year. They may ask for an onward ticket; it's wise to have one, though enforcement varies. Proof of funds is rarely asked; a credit card suffices if so. Brazil collects fingerprints and a photo on arrival for many visitors. No visa needed in advance. Be mindful of the 90/180-day rule – don't overstay or you could face fines and possible entry bans.

Chile

• Visa policy: Chile is visa-free for 90 days for Maltese visitors.
• Entry requirements: Passport (6 months validity recommended). On arrival, you'll receive a tourist card (paper slip) valid for 90 days. Keep this slip and surrender it upon departure. There's no entry fee for EU nationals. Show an onward ticket if asked (Chile doesn't often ask Europeans, but airlines might). You can extend your stay once for another 90 days by paying a fee at Chilean immigration offices. No visa required.

Colombia

• Visa policy: Colombia allows Maltese (EU) tourists 90 days visa-free, extendable to 180 days in a calendar year.
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months. Colombia will stamp an entry permit (and register it electronically) for 90 days. They often ask how long you plan to stay; maximum is 90 per entry. You must have an onward ticket as proof you will leave Colombia – airlines often enforce this, and immigration can ask. It's common to be asked for a return or onward flight. You can extend an additional 90 days through the immigration authority (Migración Colombia) website or offices, to total 180 days per year. No prior visa needed, but respect the 180-day annual limit.

Ecuador

• Visa policy: Ecuador is visa-free for 90 days per year for Maltese (and all tourists).
• Entry requirements: Passport valid 6 months beyond entry recommended. Ecuador will stamp 90 days. They do track days per calendar year. If you need more time, you can apply for a special 90-day extension once every five years by paying a fee, or get a longer-term visa. Officials often ask for an address in Ecuador and an onward ticket. Proof of onward travel is required by law, though sometimes not asked; airlines usually check it. No visa needed beforehand.

Paraguay

• Visa policy: Paraguay has visa-free entry for 90 days for EU citizens including Malta (as of recent years Paraguay removed visas for many European countries).
• Entry requirements: Passport, onward ticket. They stamp 90 days on arrival. No visa or fee required. Paraguay might ask to see a yellow fever certificate if coming from certain countries (not if coming from Europe directly). Travel between Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay is pretty open for tourists, but always get entry/exit stamps. No advance visa needed.

Peru

• Visa policy: Peru is visa-free for up to 90 days (in practice, sometimes they allow 183 days) for Maltese tourists.
• Entry requirements: Passport 6 months validity. Peru's immigration officer will decide the number of days (often 90, can be less or up to 183). If you want the maximum 183, you can politely request it; otherwise they often give 90. You must have an onward ticket (Peru is strict on that; airlines will not board you to Lima without proof of onward travel). A customs form is required on arrival for baggage. No visa necessary beforehand. You can't extend beyond what you're given (except by special application for change of immigration status), but overstaying incurs a fine of about $1 per day, payable on departure.

Uruguay

• Visa policy: Uruguay allows EU citizens visa-free entry for 90 days, with the possibility to extend for another 90 days.
• Entry requirements: Passport, onward ticket (not always asked). Uruguay is low-hassle; you receive 90 days on arrival, which you can extend to 180 days total by applying to immigration in Montevideo or other cities. There's no fee or visa needed in advance. They may ask where you're staying. Uruguay usually does not demand proof of onward travel from Europeans, but it's wise to have it just in case.

Venezuela

• Visa policy: Venezuela officially requires most foreigners to have a visa, and unlike many South American countries, it does not have a blanket visa-free entry for all EU citizens. Currently, Malta is not on the visa-exempt list for Venezuela, so a visa would be required in advance. (Some neighboring countries' citizens can enter visa-free, and EU (including Malta) used to enjoy a visa waiver for tourism of 90 days, but Venezuela suspended many of those agreements in recent years.) Due to the complex political and economic situation, travel to Venezuela is limited.
• Entry requirements: If one were to go, a Venezuelan tourist visa obtained from a consulate is needed for Maltese nationals. This typically allows 90 days. At entry, a passport valid 6 months, onward ticket, proof of funds, and Yellow Fever vaccination (if coming from a risk country) would be required. But again, because this is not visa-free, Venezuela is generally not counted among accessible destinations without prior visa for Maltese citizens.

Other South America notes:

• Guyana – Maltese do not need a visa for Guyana, as Guyana grants visa-free or visa on arrival entry to most Commonwealth citizens. Expect up to 90 days stamp, show onward ticket, and Yellow Fever vaccine if coming from risk area.
• Suriname – As of 2023, Suriname abolished tourist visa and instead requires a e-Tourist Card for many, but EU including Malta can visit visa-free for 90 days (this was changing; checking Suriname's latest entry rules is advised, as an e-visa portal exists but recently many nationalities were made visa-free). French Guiana – part of France, so it's like entering the EU; Maltese can enter visa-free, though technically it's outside Schengen, France treats EU citizens as not needing visas for any part of France including overseas.)

In conclusion, a Maltese passport provides nearly comprehensive coverage of South America with minimal fuss – allowing you to focus on enjoying Machu Picchu, Iguazú Falls, the Patagonian glaciers, and beyond, without worrying about visas.

Photo by Karl Paul Baldacchino / Unsplash

Conclusion: The Power of a Maltese Passport

As this comprehensive guide demonstrates, the Maltese passport truly stands as one of the world's most powerful travel documents. From the fjords of Europe to the beaches of the Caribbean, from Asian metropolises to South American rainforests, Maltese citizens enjoy remarkable global mobility with minimal paperwork and pre-planning.

Beyond convenience, this level of access represents significant value in today's interconnected world. Business opportunities, educational pursuits, retirement options, and leisure travel all become substantially more accessible with such a powerful passport. The freedom to explore most of the world's nations without the burden of complex visa applications translates to both personal and professional advantages that few other citizenships can match.

Interested in Maltese Citizenship by Investment?

For those seeking the benefits of a Maltese passport, Malta offers a path to citizenship through investment. The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program provides eligible investors and their families a route to EU citizenship and all the travel benefits outlined in this guide.