Who is this information for?

This information is for people who are planning to travel to Malta (from both EU and non-EU countries) and who are currently living with HIV. This advice is particularly aimed at:

  • People travelling to Malta on a Student Visa

  • People travelling to Malta on a Tourist Visa

  • People who are in Malta and are waiting for their work permit

  • Other individuals who are planning to travel to Malta without a guaranteed fixed employment, and who wish to settle in Malta

  • People in Malta who are not legally employed, including sex workers and unregistered employees

Is HIV medication in Malta free?

If you are not a Maltese national, HIV treatment in Malta is free only for people who are legally employed in Malta. Before being given medication, foreign nationals living in Malta must present a payslip as proof they are legally employed, and that they are paying National Insurance. A work permit (blue card) is often not sufficient to get free treatment. People who try to access healthcare without a payslip will be asked to pay for the healthcare services received.

How do I access treatment?

If you are in Malta, and are eligible to free treatment, you will need visit a doctor or general practitioner at your local Health Centre in order to obtain a referral to the HIV Clinic in Malta. The HIV clinic is located in Mater Dei Hospital however visits to the clinic are only by appointment.

How much does it cost?

If you are entitled to free healthcare, there is no cost associated with HIV treatment.

If you are not entitled to free healthcare, HIV medication will be very expensive. In our experience, treatment could cost between €600 to €1,500 monthly depending on viral resistance. Cheaper medication will often have higher side effects. Rent and cost of living in Malta could make it difficult to afford medication.

Is testing free?

HIV and all STI testing at the GU Clinic is free. However if someone who is not legally employed in Malta tests positive for HIV, they will need to pay for the treatment (not the tests).

Is HIV treatment covered by insurance?

HIV is considered to be a long-term chronic condition which means that HIV is excluded by most health insurance policies, particularly those issued in Malta. In addition, insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, which would mean that anything that occurred before the policy was taken out and is ongoing would not be covered. This does not mean that insurance companies will definitely not issue a private health insurance policy to people who live with HIV, but what it means is that the insurance company will not cover any expenses related to HIV.

Should I risk coming to Malta and look for a job whilst I am there?

We understand that there are many third country nationals eager to work in Malta. However, it's essential to be informed that the work permit process may take an extended period. Some recent observations indicate that this duration might sometimes extend beyond eight months. While we are not experts in migration laws and processes, our primary concern is your health and wellbeing.

If you are reliant on critical medications, such as HIV treatment, we advise ensuring that you have adequate supplies to cover potential waiting times for work permits and healthcare arrangements in Malta. HIV treatment is a significant medical expense, and it's essential to be prepared for this financially, especially if you're coming to Malta primarily for employment.

I am already in Malta but still waiting for my work permit. What should I do?

If you're currently in Malta and nearing the end of your medication supply, it would be prudent to reach out to your primary healthcare provider in your home country. They may be able to assist with sending your medication via a specialized courier. If this isn't an option, we sincerely advise you to evaluate your healthcare needs and consider relocating to a country where you can access your required treatment without interruption or undue financial burden.

Your health and safety are paramount. We urge you to factor in your medical needs and overall wellbeing when considering employment opportunities in Malta.

For more information, please visit our FAQ section.

Last updated: 26 October 2023