Overview of the Maltese Mobile Landscape
Malta possesses a modern and highly competitive telecommunications market. For foreign nationals moving to the archipelago, setting up a local mobile number is a priority for accessing government services (e-ID), banking, and local healthcare. The market is dominated by three main infrastructure providers, each offering a range of prepaid and postpaid services. As of 2026, 5G coverage is nearly universal across the islands of Malta and Gozo.
Most operators allow for easy switching between providers (number portability), meaning you can keep your Maltese phone number even if you change your service provider. Most stores are located in major hubs like Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian's, and the various shopping malls such as The Point or Bay Street.
Major Mobile Operators
There are three primary network operators in Malta. While their network coverage is generally comparable due to the small size of the country, their pricing structures and bundled services (home internet and TV) differ.
- Epic (formerly Vodafone Malta): Known for flexible plans and a strong focus on mobile-only users. They often provide competitive international calling rates. Website: https://www.epic.com.mt
- GO: The largest telecommunications company in Malta. GO is frequently chosen by expats who wish to bundle their mobile plan with high-speed fiber home internet. Website: https://www.go.com.mt
- Melita: A major provider that focuses heavily on 5G and integrated packages. They offer extensive Wi-Fi hotspots across the island for their subscribers. Website: https://www.melita.com
A few Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) also exist, though they often target specific niche markets or short-term tourists.
Types of Mobile Plans
Foreign residents can choose between two main types of service agreements: Prepaid (Pay-as-you-go) and Postpaid (Contract).
Prepaid (Pay-as-you-go)
Prepaid plans are the most accessible for newcomers. There is no credit check, and no long-term commitment is required. You purchase a SIM card and "top up" your balance as needed.
- Cost of SIM: Often ranges from 0 EUR to 10 EUR ($10.50 USD, Jan 2026), frequently including some initial credit.
- Typical Bundles: A 28-day bundle with 10GB-20GB of data usually costs around 10 EUR to 15 EUR ($10.50 - $15.75 USD, Jan 2026).
Postpaid (Monthly Contracts)
Postpaid plans offer better value for high-data users and often include "limitless" data, calls, and texts. These usually require a 12 or 24-month commitment, though "no-contract" monthly plans are becoming more common.
- Monthly Fees: Entry-level contracts start at approximately 20 EUR ($21 USD, Jan 2026), while premium unlimited 5G plans can reach 35 EUR ($36.75 USD, Jan 2026).
- Requirements: Usually requires a Maltese ID (e-Residence card) and a local bank account for Direct Debit.
Registration Requirements for Foreigners
In compliance with Maltese law, all mobile SIM cards must be registered to an individual. It is not possible to purchase an "anonymous" SIM card in Malta.
Note: You must present a valid form of identification at the point of purchase. For EU citizens, a National Identity Card or Passport is sufficient. For Non-EU citizens, a Passport is mandatory.
If you are applying for a monthly contract, the requirements are more stringent:
- Proof of Identity: A valid Passport or Maltese e-Residence Card.
- Proof of Address: A rental agreement or a recent utility bill in your name.
- Financial Documentation: Some providers may request a Maltese bank account (IBAN) to set up automated payments.
- Deposit: Non-residents or those without a Maltese ID card might be asked for a security deposit, typically ranging from 50 EUR to 100 EUR ($52.50 - $105 USD, Jan 2026), which is refundable after a set period.
EU Roaming and International Calls
Malta follows the European Union "Roam Like at Home" regulations. This means that if you have a Maltese SIM card, you can use your data, minutes, and texts while traveling within the EU/EEA at no extra cost, subject to "fair use" policies.
However, users should be aware of the following:
- International Calling: Calling a foreign number (e.g., calling the UK or USA from Malta) is not considered roaming and will incur international toll charges unless you have a specific international minutes bundle.
- Data Limits: While calls and texts are usually the same as at home, some providers cap the amount of data you can use for free while roaming in the EU.
For calls to non-EU countries, it is often significantly cheaper to use data-based applications (VoIP) or purchase a specific "International Add-on" from your provider for approximately 5 EUR ($5.25 USD, Jan 2026) per month.
