Malta

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Malta are severe, with lengthy trials (5–7 years) and pre-trial detention of months to years for foreign nationals.

Severe penalties; extended pre-trial detention common for foreigners.

Malta legalised personal cannabis use in 2021, but it is not a shop-based market and visitors are not covered. Adults may carry up to 7 g in public, keep 50 g at home and grow up to 4 plants — but the UK FCDO states this applies to Maltese residents only, and the non-profit cannabis associations that are the sole legal supply route accept residents of Malta only. There is no legal retail sale, so a tourist has no lawful way to obtain cannabis in Malta.

Smoking cannabis in public is illegal and attracts a fine. The FCDO warns of a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport, and that Schengen bans of up to 5 years may also be issued.

Confirm your prescription medication is legal with Malta's Medicines Authority and carry it in original packaging with your prescription; some home-country medications may be illegal in Malta.

Medication illegal in Malta may be confiscated.

Malta strictly regulates temporary import/export of firearms; hunting with firearms is common in rural Malta in spring and autumn. Contact the Maltese Embassy for requirements before traveling with one.

Strict enforcement.

Declare EUR 10,000 or more (any currency) when entering, transiting, or exiting Malta.

Fine for failure to declare or incorrect information.

Malta may strictly regulate temporary import/export of antiquities or items with resale value; an ATA Carnet is encouraged for professional equipment and commercial samples.

Strict enforcement; contact the Maltese Embassy in advance.

In Malta, vehicles drive on the left; roads are often narrow, winding, congested, and flood in heavy rain.

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGB events in Malta.