New rules introduced in January 2012 look to bring Malta in line with other EU countries. Malta is considered very low risk for rabies although some basic rules apply and are outlined below.
The Pet Travel Scheme applies to pet carnivores only, mainly dogs, cats and ferrets. It does not apply to other pet animals including rabbits, rodents and birds
| What has to be done | Before 1 January 2012 | From 1 January 2012 |
| Microchip | Yes | Yes |
| Rabies vaccination | Yes | Yes |
| Documentation (pet passport or third country certificate) | Yes | Yes |
| Blood test (dogs and cats) | Yes | No |
| Pre-entry waiting period | Yes | Yes |
| Length of waiting period before entry to the UK | 6 months form date sample taken for blood test | 21 days after vaccination against rabies |
| Tick treatment | Yes (24-48 hours before embarkation) | No |
| Tapeworm treatment | Yes (as for ticks) |
| What has to be done | Before 1 January 2012 | From 1 January 2012 |
| Microchip | All pets from unlisted third countries are licensed into quarantine for 6 months and vaccinated against rabies on arrival | Yes |
| Rabies vaccination | Yes | |
| Blood test | Yes. Blood sample taken at least 30 days after vaccination. | |
| Documentation ( third country certificate) | Yes | |
| Pre-entry waiting period | Yes | |
| Length of waiting period before entry to the UK | 3 months after blood sample date | |
| Tick treatment | No | |
| Tapeworm treatment | 24 – 120 hours before scheduled arrival time in Malta |
It is always advisable to check with your vet and the regulating authorities for the most updated information Both the Malta Veterinary Association and the National Airline Air Malta can also provide detailed information