Relocating to Malta with Pets: A Guide for Non-EU Families

As a firm, we frequently receive enquiries from both existing and prospective clients regarding the process of relocating to Malta with their pets. For many families, pets are an integral part of the household and ensuring their safe and compliant relocation is an important aspect of the overall move.

Relocating to Malta with your pet is entirely achievable and, with the right preparation, can be a smooth and stress-free experience. For families moving from outside the European Union, the process involves a few additional steps compared to intra-EU travel. However, these are clearly defined and manageable when approached early.

At the core of the process are animal health and safety requirements designed to protect both your pet and the local environment, as regulated by Maltese authorities, including the Animal Welfare Directorate.

The most important starting point is ensuring that your pet is microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip, followed by a valid rabies vaccination. These two elements form the foundation of the entire process, as all subsequent documentation relies on them being correctly in place.

For non-EU relocations, your pet will typically travel using an EU Animal Health Certificate, which must be issued by an authorised veterinarian in your country of departure within a limited timeframe prior to travel (usually within 10 days). Depending on your country of origin, your pet may also need to undergo a rabies antibody (titre) test, which must be completed well in advance, sometimes several months before relocation.

Dogs travelling to Malta are also subject to a tapeworm treatment requirement, which must be administered within a specific window: between 24 and 120 hours before arrival. It is important that this treatment is properly recorded by your veterinarian, as it will be checked upon entry by the competent authorities.

Upon arrival in Malta, your pet can be registered locally and, where applicable, issued with an EU Pet Passport. This document is particularly useful for future travel within Europe, as it serves as an official and ongoing record of your pet’s vaccinations and health status.

From a practical perspective, travel logistics are just as important as documentation. Most pets arrive via Malta International Airport and, depending on their size and airline policies, may travel either in the cabin or in the aircraft hold in an IATA-approved carrier. As airline requirements may vary, it is advisable to confirm crate specifications and travel conditions well in advance.

One aspect that is often overlooked is preparing your pet for the journey itself. Air travel can be unfamiliar and stressful for animals, particularly on longer international routes. To mitigate this, many owners gradually train their pets to become comfortable with their travel crate several weeks before departure. This may include allowing the pet to rest or sleep in the crate, associating it with positive experiences, and progressively increasing the time spent inside.

For pets that may be more sensitive or anxious, specialised pet relocation services or animal behaviourists can assist with pre-travel conditioning. Veterinary clinics and professional trainers may also offer guidance on desensitisation techniques, helping pets adapt to noise, movement, and confined environments similar to those experienced during a flight. Sedation is generally discouraged unless specifically recommended by a veterinarian, as it may pose risks during air travel.

Another practical consideration, particularly for clients renting property, is pet insurance. While not a requirement for entry into Malta, many landlords request liability coverage to protect against potential damage to the property. In Malta, pet insurance policies may include liability cover, as well as optional accident and sickness coverage for veterinary expenses. It is therefore advisable to explore suitable policies either prior to arrival or shortly thereafter.

Step-by-Step Guide: Relocating to Malta with Your Pet

To simplify the process, below is a practical step-by-step overview:

1. Microchip your pet
   Ensure your pet is fitted with an ISO-compliant microchip.
2. Complete rabies vaccination
   Arrange a valid rabies vaccination after microchipping.
3. Check if a rabies blood test is required
   Depending on your country of origin, complete a titre test well in advance.
4. Obtain an EU Animal Health Certificate
   This must be issued by an authorised veterinarian within 10 days prior to travel.
5. Administer tapeworm treatment (dogs only)
   Ensure treatment is given 24–120 hours before arrival and properly recorded.
6. Arrange compliant travel
   Book your pet’s journey with an airline and prepare an IATA-approved travel crate.
7. Prepare your pet for the journey
   Gradually introduce crate training and, if needed, seek professional guidance.
8. Consider pet insurance
   Arrange liability (and optional medical) cover, particularly if renting property.
9. Arrive and register locally
   Upon arrival in Malta, register your pet and obtain an EU Pet Passport if applicable.

Overall, a smooth relocation with your pet is largely a matter of careful planning, accurate documentation, and thoughtful preparation. While non-EU relocations may involve a few additional steps, these can be navigated with ease when supported by the right guidance and a well-structured timeline.