Healthcare is a vital part of life, especially for those living abroad. In Malta, both residents and expatriates need to understand how the local health insurance system works to ensure they have access to medical care when required.
While most citizens and residents are covered by public healthcare, funded through social security contributions, private health insurance may be a practical option, particularly for expatriates seeking faster access to services or broader coverage. And if you fall into this category, here’s what you should keep in mind:
Health Insurance Options in Malta
For Short Visits:
Not all EU citizens automatically qualify for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Eligibility depends on their residency status and whether they are covered by the social security system of an EU country or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. Generally, individuals who are insured or covered by a statutory social security scheme in these countries can apply for an EHIC.
However, there may be specific conditions or exceptions based on individual circumstances and national regulations. It’s advisable for EU citizens to check with their national health insurance provider for detailed eligibility criteria.
Note: There is no fee you have to pay for this card.
UK citizens cannot apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) since the UK has left the European Union. However, they can apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which provides similar benefits for necessary healthcare when visiting EU countries. For more information and to apply, visit the official NHS website.
US citizens and other foreign nationals can obtain private travel insurance for their trips. Travel insurance typically covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, flight accidents, and other losses incurred while travelling. Many insurance companies offer a variety of plans tailored to different needs and budgets.
Can You Insure Your Kids or Newborn Children?
Children who are under 18 years old are considered minors and cannot have insurance policies in their own name. However, you can include them as dependents under an adult’s insurance policy, such as the mother, father, or legal guardian. For newborns, many insurance companies will automatically provide coverage for them at no extra cost until the next renewal date.
For Residents:
Malta’s health insurance system encompasses citizens, legal residents, and those exempt from social security contributions. For employed individuals and the self-employed, coverage is automatic through payroll taxes.
Health Insurance Requirements for Residency:
While private health insurance isn’t mandatory for most residents, exceptions exist. Residents declaring self-sufficiency must demonstrate coverage for hospital and doctor treatments.
Providers and Facilities
Several local options cover private health insurance needs in Malta. Facilities like St. James Hospital, St. Thomas Hospital, and Cosmetica offer a full range of medical services from radiology to cosmetic procedures.
Average Health Insurance Cost
Costs depend on coverage preferences, including doctor visits, hospitalisation, and deductibles. Basic plans may start under €50/month, while comprehensive coverage can amount to several hundred euros monthly.
Considerations
It’s important to factor in potential healthcare expenses beyond insurance premiums. Standard doctor visits typically range from €10-15, with specialist consultations around €60. Additional costs accumulate for tests and hospital stays.
A private visit to a doctor in Malta costs significantly less than in most other developed countries; in the United States, an initial consultation can range from $100 to $200, and specialist visits average $250 or more (International Citizens Insurance).
In the United Kingdom, private GP consultations range from £50 to £100, so visiting a doctor in Malta should not break the bank!
Do You Need Private Health Insurance?
Many wonder about the necessity of private health insurance, often considering the accessibility and efficiency of private clinics compared to potential wait times in the public sector. While private healthcare offers expedited access to certain procedures, the urgency of critical care, such as cancer-related biopsies, sees little discrepancy between private and public avenues.
Yet, some individuals planning permanent residency in Malta opt for private insurance as a proactive measure. Moreover, expatriates employed by multinational corporations or large Maltese firms may benefit from employer-provided healthcare services.
Health Insurance for Retirees in Malta
Retirees residing in Malta and receiving a state pension from an EU member state are entitled to free healthcare services. This privilege extends to accessing healthcare in their home countries, with exceptions existing for select nations like Italy, Croatia, and the UK, where healthcare coverage is limited to Malta.
The large population of British expatriates in Malta benefits from a Reciprocal Health Agreement (RHC) between the two nations. Eligible British expats receive a special RHC card issued by the Maltese government, facilitating access to healthcare services in Malta.
Malta’s Health Insurance Explained
In Malta, residents have three primary options for healthcare financing:
- Public Health Insurance: Supported by income-based contributions, public health insurance is mandatory for residents, ensuring coverage for medical needs.
- Pay-As-You-Go: Individuals can opt for private healthcare on a fee-for-service basis, accessing care as needed at private clinics and hospitals.
- Private Health Insurance: Residents also have the option to purchase private health insurance plans for additional coverage and flexibility for healthcare needs.
All in All
Residents and expatriates alike should always be informed of the complexities of health insurance in Malta. Whether opting for public health coverage, private insurance plans, or employer-provided benefits is a matter of choice, the healthcare system promises access to quality medical care.
Should you have any further questions or require assistance, do not hesitate to seek guidance from Expatax.mt or healthcare professionals.
Sources
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
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