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
Other individuals who are planning to travel to Malta without a guaranteed fixed employment, and who wish to settle to Malta
Is HIV medication in Malta free?
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 tax and national insurance.
People who try to access healthcare without a payslip will be asked to pay for the healthcare services received.
How much does HIV medication in Malta cost?
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.
Should I risk coming to Malta and look for a job whilst I am there?
Our advice for people living with any health condition, including HIV, is to not come to Malta unless they are certain that they will be able to get their medication whilst they are in Malta. Running out of HIV medication could be very distressing, and is a risk to your life and that of your sex partners. Please ensure that you have weighed all the risks before making a decision to travel to Malta, or any other country, that does not guarantee free healthcare.
