Public Transport in Malta
Public transportation in Malta is primarily provided by a comprehensive bus network and sea ferry services. Since October 2022, the government has implemented a free public transport scheme for all residents who possess a valid, personalized Tallinja Card. This scheme covers all day routes, night routes, and special services across both Malta and Gozo.
The Tallinja Card System
For foreign nationals moving to Malta, obtaining a personalized Tallinja Card is the most cost-effective way to travel. While travel is free, there is a one-time administrative registration fee for new applicants:
- Adult / Student / Gozo Resident Card: 25.00 EUR ($29.00 USD, Jan 2026).
- Child / Concession / Senior Card: 5.00 EUR ($5.80 USD, Jan 2026).
- Postage Fee (Local): Approximately 3.85 EUR ($4.47 USD, Jan 2026).
Foreigners can apply online using their residence permit or passport. It typically takes two weeks for the card to be delivered to a Maltese address. Without a personalized card, travelers must pay cash or use contactless payment on board.
Bus Fares for Non-Residents
If you do not have a personalized card, single-journey tickets are valid for two hours, including transfers. Prices vary by season:
- Winter Fare: 2.00 EUR ($2.32 USD, Jan 2026).
- Summer Fare: 2.50 EUR ($2.90 USD, Jan 2026).
- Night Routes / Tallinja Direct (TD): 3.00 EUR ($3.48 USD, Jan 2026).
Failure to present a valid ticket or failure to tap a Tallinja card upon boarding results in an immediate fine of 50.00 EUR ($58.00 USD, Jan 2026).
Driving in Malta
Driving in Malta follows the British system, with vehicles traveling on the left-hand side of the road. The islands have a high density of vehicles, and traffic congestion is common in the central harbor areas during peak hours.
Driving License Validity and Exchange
The rules for using a foreign license depend on your country of origin and your residency status in Malta:
- EU/EEA/UK/Swiss Citizens: You may drive using your valid national license. You also have the option to exchange it for a Maltese license after living in the country for at least 185 days.
- Non-EU Citizens: Most foreign nationals can drive using their valid home license for up to 12 months from their last date of entry into Malta. After this period, you must obtain a Maltese driving license.
- Exchange Agreements: Malta has reciprocal agreements with countries including Australia and the United Arab Emirates, allowing for a direct license exchange without a practical test.
For those from countries without an exchange agreement, you will be required to pass both a theory and a practical driving test through Transport Malta to obtain a local license. The fee for exchanging a license is typically 80.00 EUR ($92.80 USD, Jan 2026) for a 10-year period.
Vehicle Registration
Foreign residents may keep a foreign-registered vehicle in Malta for a maximum of 7 months in any 12-month period. Beyond this, the vehicle must be officially registered with Transport Malta, which involves paying registration taxes based on the vehicle's emissions and value.
Ferries and Alternative Transport
Given Malta's geography, maritime transport is a vital link between major hubs. These services offer a faster alternative to road transport during rush hours.
Harbour Ferries
Valletta Ferry Services operates two main routes: Valletta to Sliema and Valletta to the Three Cities (Cospicua/Bormla). Residents with a personalized Tallinja Card can use these ferries for free. For others, the standard fares are:
- Single Journey (Day): 2.00 EUR ($2.32 USD, Jan 2026).
- Return Journey (Day): 3.80 EUR ($4.41 USD, Jan 2026).
- Night Service (after 19:30): Single fares increase to approximately 2.50 EUR ($2.90 USD, Jan 2026).
Taxis and E-Hailing
Malta has a robust e-hailing market. The most commonly used apps are Bolt, Uber, and eCabs. These services provide transparent pricing and are generally preferred over traditional "white taxis" which are found at designated stands (like the airport) and operate on fixed government-regulated tariffs.
Important Note: Always ensure that any taxi or e-hailing vehicle you enter displays a "Y-Plate," which indicates the vehicle is officially licensed for passenger carriage by Transport Malta.
