Malta Eases Travel Rules By Dropping Tests For Unvaccinated Travelers

As Europe enjoys summer, many of the previously harsh COVID-19 regulations are being eased or dropped completely. In the case of Malta, as of July 25, unvaccinated travelers will no longer be required to produce a negative PCR test result to enter the country. Read on to find out the current situation relating to travel to Malta

Malta eases COVID-19 restrictions

It was reported in April that Malta was preparing to drop some of its restrictions in time for summer travelers. At that time, the requirement to complete a Passenger Location Form was to be dropped.

Meanwhile, the use of face masks was mostly dropped at that stage with some exceptions. Basically, travelers were required to wear a mask while flying or visiting hospitals and care homes. Other than that, face masks were dropped when visiting tourist sites in Malta and other public spaces.

The latest change, to be effective from July 25, affects unvaccinated travelers. Previously, travelers had to provide proof of vaccination or recovery from the virus. Those that couldn’t provide this had to produce proof of a negative PCR test to enter Malta. Luckily for unvaccinated travelers, this rule is set to change on July 25.

Change comes under direction from the EU

Malta’s Health Ministry said in a statement that changes to travel restrictions come following a direction from the European Union. Meanwhile, up until recently, Malta’s entry rules were among the strictest in the EU bloc. In fact, at one time travelers could only enter if they had proof of full vaccination.

Moreover, at the start of this year, the country set a three-month expiry limit on Malta’s vaccine certificate. According to the Times of Malta, this move wasn’t taken well by several airports, who complained that this breached EU rules.

Later, this was eased, allowing travelers without a vaccine certificate to provide proof of recovery from the virus or a negative test. PCR test results had to be produced no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Meanwhile, negative rapid antigen tests had to be obtained no more than 24 hours prior to arrival in the archipelago.

With the latest announcement, there are no rules against unvaccinated travelers visiting Malta.

What does Malta have to offer visitors?

The charming archipelago of Malta offers a variety of options to attract visitors from all over the world. The country offers gorgeous beaches and all the major water sports can be enjoyed around its rugged shores.

The coastline also features many marinas, home to luxurious yachts and speedboats. Moreover, many of these offer fun sailing, fishing and boating trips.

Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate the evidence of former civilizations that have lived in Malta, with many historic temples and other ruins. Moreover, the cities offer a great shopping and dining experience, with museums and art galleries to explore. All this, and gorgeous sunny weather make the archipelago a great place to be.

With everything Malta has to offer international travelers, it is good news to hear that the country is once again dialing back on its strict rules and regulations.

Keep up to date with the latest travel news prior to making reservations for your vacation.