Universal Emergency Number
Malta utilizes the standard European emergency number, 112, as the primary point of contact for all life-threatening situations. This service is free of charge from any landline or mobile phone, including those using foreign SIM cards. Operators are generally fluent in both Maltese and English, and the service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
When calling 112, the operator will triage the call to the appropriate department:
- Police (Pulizija)
- Ambulance and Medical Services
- Fire and Rescue (Civil Protection)
- Armed Forces of Malta (Search and Rescue at sea)
For non-emergency police matters, such as reporting a minor theft or administrative inquiries, individuals should contact the nearest local police station or use the general police line at (+356) 2122 4001.
Police and Law Enforcement
The Malta Police Force is the national law enforcement agency responsible for public safety and order. Malta is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the European Union, with low rates of violent crime. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing or vehicle break-ins can occur, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas like St. Julian's, Sliema, and Valletta.
Reporting a Crime
If you are a victim of a crime that is not an immediate emergency, you must visit a local police station to file a formal report (known as a police report). This document is often required for insurance claims or for the replacement of lost official documents like passports.
- Community Policing: Many towns now have dedicated community policing teams to assist residents with local safety concerns.
- Online Reporting: Certain minor reports can be initiated through the official Malta Police Online Portal.
Administrative fees for police services are rare; however, obtaining a formal copy of a police conduct certificate for employment typically costs approximately 10 EUR ($10.90 USD, Jan 2026).
Medical and Health Emergencies
Emergency medical care in Malta is centered around the Mater Dei Hospital in Msida, which serves as the primary acute care facility for the islands. For emergency psychiatric care, Mount Carmel Hospital is the designated facility. Residents of Gozo are served by the Gozo General Hospital in Victoria.
Public vs. Private Services
While emergency treatment at Mater Dei is provided regardless of insurance status, the eventual cost depends on your residency and social security status. EU nationals with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are covered for necessary treatment. Non-EU nationals (Third Country Nationals) are generally required to have private health insurance as a condition of their residence permit. Without insurance, a visit to a private GP clinic typically costs between 20 EUR ($21.80 USD, Jan 2026) and 45 EUR ($49.05 USD, Jan 2026).
After-hours Pharmacies: On Sundays and public holidays, specific pharmacies remain open on a roster basis. These are published weekly in local newspapers and on the official Pharmacy.com.mt website.
Fire and Civil Protection
The Civil Protection Department (CPD) handles fire-related emergencies, hazardous material incidents, and natural disasters. Due to Malta's high population density and narrow streets, it is essential to keep building entrances and narrow roads clear for emergency vehicle access.
Marine Safety and Rescue
The Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) operate the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC). They are responsible for maritime search and rescue operations within Malta's Search and Rescue (SAR) region. If you encounter an emergency at sea while boating or swimming, 112 will connect you to the AFM Maritime Squadron.
Note: Foreigners living in coastal areas should be aware of the "North-East Wind" (Gregale), which can cause dangerous sea conditions very rapidly. Safety flags on beaches (Red or Double Red) should be strictly obeyed.