Planning and paying close attention to regulations are necessary when relocating to this gorgeous island with your beloved animal friend. In this thorough guide, you will be provided with a ton of helpful pointers and useful advice to make sure your pet’s move to Malta goes smoothly without a hitch.
Traveling with your pet
Malta’s laws on bringing pets into the country and traveling across borders with them are based on the common EU rules in these areas. It is essential to arrange things well in advance of your move because these rules can be confusing. Filling out a pet import authorization form from the Ministry of Agriculture is the first step you must take. This is possible online.
Microchipping and vaccination
Before your transfer, get your pet microchipped by a veterinarian, and be sure to request an intradermal 15-digit microchip that complies with ISO 11784/11785 standards. It can be cumbersome to carry the appropriate scanner if your animal has a different type of microchip. Tattoos are only relevant to older animals and must have been applied before July 2011 to be accepted. Even though rabies is rare in your home country, they will likely need to get vaccinated against it for at least three weeks before traveling to Malta. The 24-120 hours before travel to Malta, your dog must receive a tapeworm treatment, unless you reside in Ireland, Finland, Norway, or the UK. You will require a pet passport if you are from an EU nation.
Animal importation from a third country
Making sure your pet is microchipped and rabies-vaccinated is one of the first things you should do when bringing it into Malta from a foreign country. After the immunization, but at least 30 days before your intended arrival in this country, you must schedule a blood titer test. It is required that a certified laboratory analyze this test. You will receive a pet health certificate if the lab’s findings are good, which you must present before entering Malta. You must treat your animal friend against tapeworms with a Praziquantel-based treatment 24-120 hours before you arrive in Malta, just like when transporting pets from your own country. The veterinarian must then attest that this treatment was administered in your pet’s passport. Cats and dogs must have a vet checkup when they arrive in this country, and the cost of any subsequent exams or procedures falls on the owner.
Bringing additional animals to Malta
Your bird, invertebrate, tropical fish, reptile, amphibian, rodent, or rabbit will not need to be vaccinated against rabies if you are from the EU or other approved countries. They do, however, require a health certificate, which you must research and get before leaving your home country. Rabbits and rats may require a brief quarantine, especially after arrival. If your animal companion seems more peculiar, like a turtle or parrot, you should get familiar with CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). This protects exotic animals from exploitation during export or import, and you’ll need to get specific permission if you want to travel with your pet. Consult local agencies for guidance and support, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, for thorough advice on bringing animal companions to this country.
Import regulations for restricted dog breeds in Malta
Numerous dog breeds are prohibited from entering Malta because of their classification as possibly hazardous due to the tight standards that must be followed. Pit bulls, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, and their hybrids are some examples of these breeds. To bring certain breeds into the country, owners need a specific permit from the Veterinary Regulation Directorate. An application must be sent together with comprehensive information on the dog, such as its breed, age, size, and temperament. To establish if the dog would be a threat to public safety, the authorities will evaluate each application individually. There are additional unique regulations for the owners of specific breeds after they enter the nation. When in public areas, dogs must always be muzzled and on a short leash. Additionally, owners must carry liability insurance to cover any damages or losses caused by their dogs. For a smooth and lawful transition with these breeds, pet owners must fully understand and comply with Malta’s regulations to ensure a seamless relocation. For detailed guidance, consult the Veterinary Regulation Directorate or seek assistance from a specialized pet relocation agency familiar with Malta’s requirements.
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