Susan MeierIf you are relocating to Malta for business or personal reasons, you might be considering bringing your vehicle with you. Naturally, several questions will arise: What are the costs involved? What is it like to drive on the island? How easy is it to find parking?
Although Malta is one of the smallest countries in the EU, it has a very high vehicle density. With over 300,000 registered vehicles on the roads, traffic congestion is a daily reality, and finding a parking space in popular areas can be a significant challenge. However, there is one crucial factor that is often overlooked when planning to bring a car to Malta: the registration tax on imported vehicles.
Understanding the Registration Tax
The registration tax is arguably the most critical factor to consider before shipping your car to Malta. This tax can amount to a substantial sum, so it is vital to understand the financial implications beforehand. Newer vehicles—particularly those less than two years old—are subject to higher taxation rates. The tax is calculated based on several factors, including the vehicle's age, mileage, CO2 emissions, and length. In some cases, this tax can amount to up to 60% of the car's value. You can use this official calculator to estimate the potential cost for your specific vehicle.
Visitor Permits vs. Importation
If you intend to stay in the country for less than six months, you may be eligible for a visitor permit, which exempts you from paying the registration tax. However, if you decide to keep the car in Malta beyond this period, you must either pay the tax or remove the vehicle from the island.
If the registration tax proves prohibitively expensive, it may make more financial sense to purchase a car locally or opt for a long-term rental. This is often more cost-effective than importing your own vehicle, especially if your stay in Malta is temporary or involves frequent travel abroad.
Additional Costs
In addition to the registration tax, you will also need to pay the annual road license fee (circulation tax), the cost of which depends on the vehicle's age and engine size. Administrative fees include approximately €15 for registration and €50 for the initial inspection.
Our Recommendation
From a practical perspective, I generally advise against bringing a car to Malta. Ownership comes with high costs, and you may find you do not need a vehicle as often as you expect. It is often possible to live within walking distance of your workplace, and public transport is very affordable. If you do need a vehicle occasionally, simply renting one is often far cheaper and less hassle than the process of importing and maintaining your own.
