Malta – known for its weather, landscapes & culture.
The country is also popular with filmmakers due to its stunning landscape, which is perfect for many types of movies.
What makes Malta even more remarkable is that it is the smallest country in the European Union.
Luxembourg, the second-smallest nation in the bloc, is eight times larger than Malta, and many refer to it as tiny.
So, what to do in Malta? There are plenty of cathedrals to explore, like the St. John's Co-Cathedral.
Of course, you can enjoy one of the many beaches with Roman ruins, like Ramla Beach.
And if you are visiting Malta for your Instagram feed, be sure to take photos around the Azure Window, Blue Grotto & the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
As you can see, there is no reason to be bored.
And if you somehow get bored in Malta, make sure to swim to Italy (actually – do not try – you will not survive).
What you may also not survive is dealing with an expensive international roaming bill because you forgot to turn off data roaming.
But there is a way to avoid such bills… by staying home! No, by using local SIM cards, like a Maltese one, so that you can enjoy local rates.
Fortunately, Maltese SIM cards are reasonably priced and are available to anyone visiting the country.
You can get a Maltese SIM card for 10 EUR (10.65 USD) from Epic (formerly Vodafone), GO & Melita in their stores. SIM cards are also sold at Malta International Airport (MLA – Epic only).
Special note for those from Ukraine: be sure to ask about special benefits for Ukrainians. Many mobile operators around Europe have waived fees for you or introduced exclusive plans, including free calls back to Ukraine. Слава Україні! 🇺🇦
Paying 10 EUR for a SIM card is quite normal in Western Europe. Luckily, mobile data rates are low in Malta too.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Malta. Let's go.
Original publication: 23rd of May 2020. Last updated: 15th of March 2023.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Malta?
Anyone living in or visiting Malta can buy a Maltese SIM card from Epic (formerly Vodafone), GO & Melita with no restrictions.
You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
- Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Malta).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Malta?
You can get a Maltese SIM card in Epic (formerly Vodafone), GO & Melita stores. They are also sold at Malta International Airport (MLA – Epic only).
You can expect to pay the following for Maltese SIM cards:
- Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone Malta): 10 EUR
- GO Malta: 10 EUR
- Melita: 10 EUR
For up-to-date EUR:your currency (let's say GBP) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Can You Use Your Phone in Malta?
Malta uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Malta. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).
Traditional European frequencies are used in Malta, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).
The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American frequencies, which differ from the European ones.
If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Malta.
If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Malta or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Malta (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Malta
Malta has three mobile operators offering prepaid services:
- Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
- GO Malta
- Melita
The following frequencies are used in Malta:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Malta, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
A Note about Top-Up Excise Tax in Malta
An excise tax of 4% will be charged on each top-up in Malta.
As a result, the effective credit you get upon recharging will be as follows:
| Top-Up | Credit After Tax |
|---|---|
| 5 EUR | 4.81 EUR |
| 10 EUR | 9.62 EUR |
| 20 EUR | 19.23 EUR |
| 50 EUR | 48.08 EUR |
VoLTE & VoWiFi in Malta
Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) are not offered by the mobile operators in Malta (yet).
This means that when you make a call, your phone will downgrade to 3G (or 2G when 3G is not available) instead of staying connected to 4G/LTE.
This is also why you often cannot use mobile data while calling if not connected to WiFi.
VoWiFi is, as the name implies, calling on a WiFi connection as opposed to on a cellular network.
5G NR in Malta
Commercial 5G NR has been available in Malta since May 2021. It is available on the Epic (formerly Vodafone), GO & Melita networks. All mobile operators allow prepaid customers to use 5G NR.
Best SIM Card in Malta
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Malta, I recommend going with Epic or GO. Epic has the best overall network. GO is the fastest mobile operator in the country.
Best eSIM in Malta
GO Malta is, currently, the only mobile operator with eSIMs.
It is unclear if they are available to prepaid customers too.
Note that the Maltese mobile operators require your identification (ID for EU/EEA travelers and passport for anyone else) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards (will be discussed later).
However, you can get travel eSIMs from Airalo, Holafly & Nomad.
Airalo has the Maltafone eSIMs:
You have these six options:
- Malta/Maltafone 1 GB eSIM for 7 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Malta/Maltafone 2 GB eSIM for 15 days (new)
- Malta/Maltafone 3 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Malta/Maltafone 5 GB eSIM for 30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Malta/Maltafone 10 GB eSIM for 30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Malta/Maltafone 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (new)
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)
The Airalo links above will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
While I did not use the Maltafone eSIM when I was in Malta recently, I did use the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in Malta (and ten other countries) instead.
- Check out my Airalo Eurolink eSIM in Malta review
Or you can get Malta eSIMs from Nomad.
By the way, the 5 GB Nomad Malta eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
While I did not use the Nomad Malta eSIM when I was in Malta recently, I did use the Nomad Europe eSIM in Malta (and seven other countries) instead.
So you may want to consider the Nomad Europe eSIM if you plan on visiting Malta and at least one other European country.
- Check out my Nomad Europe eSIM in Malta review
Finally, you can get Malta eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 5 days
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 15 days
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Malta unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Malta eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Malta eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
With these eSIMs, you can skip Malta's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Malta!
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
TIP: check out my Best Malta eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Malta, including ones not mentioned above.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Eurolink eSIM (six variants: 1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers, 5 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers, 10 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days) in Malta and these other countries:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria 2
- Belgium 2
- Bulgaria 2
- Croatia 2
- Cyprus 2
- Czech Republic
- Denmark 2
- Estonia 2
- Finland 2
- France 2
- Germany
- Gibraltar 1
- Greece 2
- Hungary
- Iceland 2
- Ireland 2
- Italy 2
- Latvia 2
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg 2
- Malta 2
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland 2
- Portugal
- Romania 2
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain 2
- Sweden 2
- Switzerland 2
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom 2
1 on 3G only
2 (limited) 5G NR availability at no additional cost! (list updated in December 2022)
With the Eurolink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit – averaging 10.78 USD/country in Europe (and get 5G NR access at no additional cost)!
- Check out my Airalo Eurolink eSIM in Malta review
Holafly and Nomad also have eSIMs covering all of the European Union (and more).
But honestly, the Eurolink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Europe eSIM if you want unlimited data in 30+ countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
Or if costs are of significant concern, get the Nomad Europe eSIM, which is the cheapest for up to 10 GB of data.
Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off!
TIP: Check out my eSIM lookup tool for an overview of local mobile operators offering eSIMs to prepaid customers and travel eSIMs I use and love (for eSIMs in Malta and eSIMs worldwide) and my Best Malta eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Malta.
Best International/Travel SIM Card for Malta
If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Malta, I recommend going with Simify's Europe SIM cards that covers Europe (mainly the European Union) and parts Asia, Central America, Oceania & South America – all in one SIM card.
You have these four options:
- Europe & UK Travel SIM Card with 10 GB for 30 days
- Europe & UK Prepaid Travel SIM Card with 12 GB for 30 days (includes calls and SMS within the country you are in)
- Explorer Prepaid Travel SIM Card with 12 GB for 365 days
- Europe & UK Prepaid Travel SIM Card with 19 GB for 28 days (includes calls within the country you are in)
If this selection of countries is still not enough, get Simify's Tourist Prepaid Travel SIM card with 6 GB of data for 15 days to be used in Africa, the Americas (all), Asia, Europe (also outside of the European Union), the Middle East & Oceania (100+ countries).
Instead of spending between 0.67 USD to 105.17 USD for SIM cards in each country in the European Union, get a Simify's Tourist Prepaid Travel SIM card covering numerous countries for just one price!
SIM Card Registration in Malta
SIM card registration with your passport information is required in Malta. It will be done at the point of purchase.
- Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
EU Roaming in Malta
Malta is part of the European Union (EU).
Since June 2017, those with EU/EEA (European Economic Area) SIM cards can roam for free in other EU/EEA nations, including Malta.
This means that, in the majority of cases, you do not need to purchase a Maltese SIM card if you already have an EU/EEA SIM card because you can roam without additional costs.
However, conditions do apply. Mobile operators in some countries may impose a roaming Fair Use Policy (FUP).
In countries where local mobile data rates are extremely low (such as in the Baltics and the Nordics), mobile operators may still charge you for roaming in the EU/EEA.
Be sure to head over to the international roaming page to learn whether your mobile operator offers free roaming while in Malta or if restrictions apply.
Roaming in the EU with Maltese SIM Cards
Malta and the Maltese mobile operators have fully adopted the roam like at home regulations principles early on.
Unlike most EU/EEA mobile operators that impose EU/EEA roaming caps, none of the Maltese mobile operators have such caps.
However, the standard Fair Use Policy applies where you should not be roaming over 50% of the time over a four-month period.
If you do so, EU roaming rates will apply.
You are then better off buying local prepaid SIM cards in other EU nations.
Malta Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
Mobile data rates are quite low in Europe, which can be said about Malta as well.
While it is the 108th cheapest country for 1 GB of data, which may sound like mobile data is expensive in Malta, it actually is not.
The average price for 1 GB of data in Malta is 2.01 USD, about the European average of 2.50 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
Compared to 2019's figures, the average cost of 1 GB of data has gone down by 84.7% – quite remarkable!
Cable.co.uk split Europe into three territories: Western Europe, Eastern Europe & the Baltics.
The Western European average cost of 1 GB of data, using Cable.co.uk's definition, is 2.66 USD, which is just slightly more than the overall European average.
So, what about mobile data speeds? Are they fast in Malta?
Malta's median mobile download speed is around 49 Mbps.
While there are some European countries with faster median mobile download speeds, Malta is doing remarkably well for an islands nation.
And 5G NR has just begun to roll out in December 2021, so you can expect even faster speeds in 2022.
Okay, now it is time to know which mobile operator is the fastest in Malta.
That would be GO Malta, with a median download speed of 58.01 Mbps. Followed by Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone Malta – 54.57 Mbps) and Melita (30.62 Mbps).
I can tell you the best place to be for experiencing fast mobile download speeds is Sliema and Valletta.
With reasonable SIM card prices, extensive nationwide coverage, fast mobile download speeds, and low mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Malta.
Currency in Malta
Malta uses the Euro with the symbol EUR (which will be used throughout this guide).
However, prices are often listed as just €. For example, 25 EUR = €25.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between EUR and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 EUR = 1.05 USD
- 10 EUR = 10.60 USD
- 100 EUR = 106.15 USD
For up-to-date EUR:your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.
Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).
I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.
Maltese Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone Malta), GO Malta & Melita, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices & availability
- Recharge / top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans & special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Malta has to offer to us.
Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
Epic Malta, just Epic and formerly Vodafone Malta, is the largest mobile operator in Malta.
Epic, then still called Vodafone, was the first mobile operator to introduce 4.5G (LTE-A), achieving superior download speeds compared to its competitors.
Nowadays, it claims to be the cheapest mobile operator for prepaid, although the comparison figures are from March 2021.
Epic, by Monaco Telecom, is also active in Cyprus.
Epic uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: No
- VoWiFi: No
This is what you will learn about Epic:
* Coverage
* How to Get an Epic SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
Epic has the best coverage in Malta.
4G/LTE is available basically everywhere.
Below is EPIC's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see EPIC's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
You can get an Epic SIM card for 10 EUR with 5 GB of data, 200 local/EU minutes & 200 local/EU SMS – all for 28 days in Epic stores. Epic SIM cards are also sold at Malta International Airport (MLA).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Epic has no eSIMs – not even for postpaid customers.
Note that the Maltese mobile operators require your identification (ID for EU/EEA travelers and passport for anyone else) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Malta without personal detail capturing, you can get Malta Maltafone eSIMs from Airalo (six options):
- 1 GB/7 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 2 GB/15 days
- 3 GB/30 days
- 5 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 10 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 20 GB/30 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)
No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Airalo Eurolink eSIM to be used in 39 European countries with six variants:
- 1 GB/7 days
- 3 GB/30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 5 GB/30 days– very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 10 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 50 GB/90 days
- 100 GB/180 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)
Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!
By the way, you get free 5G NR access in 22 of the 39 supported countries!
I have used the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in 11 countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.
- Be sure to check out my Airalo Eurolink eSIM review for my insights!
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Malta
You can read about them in my Best Malta eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Note that Epic does not offer VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) or VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
Epic top-up vouchers are sold in Epic stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Malta.
To top up your Epic SIM card, redeem the VoucherCode online or on the epic Malta app (Android/iOS).
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.
Send a blank SMS (or whatever, like a dot, if your phone does not allow you to send a blank SMS) to 16200 to check your Epic balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the epic Malta app.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
Epic has two data-featured prepaid plans: Value Packs (combo) & Youth Packs (combo for those up to 25 years old).
Value Packs – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
The Value Packs are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Value Packs are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 16200.
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes 1 | Local/EU SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code | Deactivation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.99 EUR | Talk Pack | 100 MB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 28 days | TALK | STOP TALK |
| 5.99 EUR | Data Pack | 4 GB | N/A | N/A | 28 days | DATA | STOP DATA |
| 9.99 EUR | Value Pack | 8 EUR | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 28 days | VALUE | STOP VALUE |
1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Malta (NOT from Malta to other EU/EEA member states)
Value Packs auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text the Deactivation Code to 16200.
Youth Plans – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
The Youth Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS for youngsters up to 25 years old.
Unfortunately, these plans are not available to the elderly 🤪.
You can apply for Youth Plans in Epic stores (recommended) or online if you have a Facebook account (to confirm your age:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes | Local/EU SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.99 EUR/10 EUR 1 | Youth Basic | 5 GB | 400 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 12.99 EUR/15 EUR 1 | Youth Standard | 20 GB | 400 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
1 if auto-renewal is disabled, you have to top-up 10 EUR or 15 EUR to activate the respective plans. If auto-renewal is enabled, you will be charged 8.99 EUR or 12.99 EUR for the Youth Basic and Youth Standard plans instead
EU Roaming – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
You can use your Epic allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
As Epic does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.
APN/Internet Settings – Epic Malta (formerly Vodafone)
- Name: epic
- APN: connect
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
GO Malta
GO Malta, just GO and sometimes referred to as GO Mobile, is the second-largest mobile operator in Malta.
It used to be a state-owned company, as Maltacom, back in the day.
GO uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: No
- VoWiFi: No
This is what you will learn about GO:
* Coverage
* How to Get a GO SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – GO Malta
GO has extensive coverage throughout Malta.
4G/LTE is available basically everywhere.
Below is GO's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – GO Malta
You can get a GOSIM card for 10 EUR with the Smart L Plan (4 GB of data, unlimited music streaming for select apps, 200 local/international (EU) & 200 local/international (EU) SMS – all for 28 days) or 10 EUR credit in GO stores. GO SIM cards are not sold at Malta International Airport (MLA).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
While GO does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.
Note that the Maltese mobile operators require your identification (ID for EU/EEA travelers and passport for anyone else) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Malta without personal detail capturing, you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (seven options):
- Unlimited/5 days
- Unlimited/10 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/15 days
- Unlimited/20 days
- Unlimited/30 days
- Unlimited/60 days
- Unlimited/90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.
The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!
No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Holafly Europe eSIM to be used in 32 European countries, also with unlimited data, with seven variants:
- Unlimited/5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/10 days
- Unlimited/15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/20 days
- Unlimited/30 days
- Unlimited/60 days
- Unlimited/90 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.
Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Holafly review!
Remember to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase!
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Malta
You can read about them in my Best Malta eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Note that GO does not offer VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) or VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – GO Malta
GO top-up vouchers are sold in GO stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Malta.
To top up your GO SIM card, redeem the VoucherCode online or on the GO app (Android/iOS).
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.
Send a blank SMS (or whatever, like a dot, if your phone does not allow you to send a blank SMS) to 16415 or call 1232 to check your Go balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the GO app.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – GO Malta
GO has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Smart Mobile Plans (combo)
- Play Plans (combo for those up to 27 years old)
- Extra Bundles (add-ons/plans)
All GO plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 16410.
All GO plans include the Music Wildcard, giving you unlimited streaming data for Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer & Apple Music.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Smart Mobile Plans – GO Malta
The Small Mobile Plans are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Smart Mobile Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 16410:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/International (EU) Minutes | Local/International (EU) SMS | Validity | Activation Code | Deactivation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.99 EUR | Smart S | 250 MB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 28 days | S | STOP 500MB |
| 9.99 EUR | Smart M | 8 GB | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 28 days | M | STOP 1GB |
| 15.99 EUR | Smart L | 10 GB | 300 minutes | 300 SMS | 28 days | L | STOP 6GB |
| 34.99 EUR | Smart XL | 12 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | XL | STOP 10GB |
Your call and SMS allowance can be used for local use, EU/EEA roaming use, and international use from Malta to EU/EEA countries.
All Smart Mobile Plans include the Music Wildcard, giving you unlimited streaming data for Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer & Apple Music.
Play Plans – GO Malta
The Play Plans are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS for youngsters up to 29 years old.
Unfortunately, these plans are not available to the elderly 🤪.
The following Play Plans are available, which initially have to be activated in a GO store:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/International (EU) Minutes | Local/International (EU) SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.99 EUR | DIS | 5 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 12.99 EUR | Double DAT | 20 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
Your call and SMS allowance can be used for local use, EU/EEA roaming use, and international use from Malta to EU/EEA countries.
All Play Plans include the Music Wildcard, giving you unlimited streaming data for Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer & Apple Music.
Extra Bundles – GO Malta
The Extra Bundles are data, call, or combo plans with data and minutes. They may be able to be purchased as standalone plans (to be confirmed in March).
Yeah… I forgot to confirm this 💀. But you can let me know.
The following Extra Bundles are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 16410 or on the
| Price | Data | Local/International (EU) Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 EUR | 10 GB | N/A | 24 hours | App only |
| 1 EUR | N/A | 1000 minutes | 24 hours | App only |
| 3 EUR | 10 GB | 1000 minutes | 1 weekend (Saturday & Sunday) | App only |
| 5 EUR | 500 MB | N/A | 4 weeks | 500MB |
| 8 EUR | 1 GB | N/A | 4 weeks | 1GB |
| 20 EUR | 6 GB | N/A | 4 weeks | 6GB |
| 25 EUR | 10 GB | N/A | 4 weeks | 10GB |
EU Roaming – GO Malta
You can use your GO allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- French Guiana
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Guadeloupe
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Martinique
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Réunion
- Romania
- Saint Barthélemy
- Saint Martin
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
As GO does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.
APN/Internet Settings – GO Malta
- Name: GO
- APN: gointernet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Melita
Melita is the smallest mobile operator in Malta.
It wanted to merge with Vodafone Malta (now: Epic Malta) back in 2017.
However, as the combined mobile operator would have more than 60% market share, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) had doubts.
In December 2017, the merger was called off.
Melita uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A – may have been shut down already
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: No
- VoWiFi: No
This is what you will learn about Melita:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Melita SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Melita
Melita has extensive coverage throughout Malta.
4G/LTE is available basically everywhere.
It also has the best 5G NR coverage, as it rolled out its 5G NR network at least five months ahead of its competitors.
Below is Melita's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Melita
You can get a Melita SIM card for 10 EUR in Melita stores. Melita SIM cards are not sold at Malta International Airport (MLA).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Melita has no eSIMs – not even for postpaid customers.
Note that the Maltese mobile operators require your identification (ID for EU/EEA travelers and passport for anyone else) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Malta without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (four options):
The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!
No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Nomad Europe eSIM to be used in 25 or 35 European countries, depending on the plan, with eight variants:
- 1 GB/7 days (25 countries – new)
- 1 GB/7 days (35 countries)
- 3 GB/30 days (25 countries – new)
- 3 GB/30 days (35 countries)
- 5 GB/30 days (25 countries – new)
- 5 GB/30 days (35 countries) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers (that was before the 25 countries options were added)
- 10 GB/30 days (25 countries – new)
- 10 GB/30 days (35 countries) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers (that was before the 25 countries options were added)
Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!
I have used the Nomad Europe eSIM in eight countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.
- Be sure to check out my Nomad Europe eSIM review for my insights!
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Malta
You can read about them in my Best Malta eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Note that Epic does not offer VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) or VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Melita
Melita top-up vouchers are sold in Melita stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Malta.
To top up your Melita SIM card, dial *125*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *125*123456#.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *121# to check your Melita balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the MyMelita app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Melita
Melita has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Pockit Plans (combo)
- Djuno Plans (combo for those up to 29 years old)
- Endless Data Boost (data add-on)
All Melita plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 16860.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Pockit Plans – Melita
The Pockit Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Text the Activation Code to 16860 to activate Pockit Plans:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes 1 | Local/EU SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 EUR | Pass S | 250 MB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 30 days | Pass S |
| 10 EUR | Pass M | 8 GB | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days | Pass M |
| 15 EUR | Pass L | 15 GB | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days | Pass L |
1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Malta (NOT from Malta to other EU/EEA member states)
Pockit Plans auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 16852.
Djuno Plans – Melita
The Djuno Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS for youngsters up to 29 years old.
Unfortunately, these plans are not available to the elderly 🤪.
The following Djuno Plans are available, which initially have to be activated in a Melita store:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes 1 | Local/EU SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 EUR | BigGig M | 5 GB | 400 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days | BigGig M |
| 12 EUR | BigGig L | 20 GB | 400 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days | BigGig L |
1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Malta (NOT from Malta to other EU/EEA member states)
Djuno Plans auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 16852.
Endless Data Boost Add-On – Melita
The Endless Data Boost Add-On is a data add-on giving you unlimited data until midnight for 2 EUR. It cannot be purchased as a standalone plan.
Text Endless data to 16860 to activate Endless Data Boost.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 EUR | Unlimited | Until midnight | Endless data |
EU Roaming – Melita
You can use your Melita allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
As Melita does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.
APN/Internet Settings – Melita
- Name: melitaweb
- APN: web.melita
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Malta
Getting a SIM card from Epic or GO would do you well when considering a Maltese SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other European Countries
Visiting other countries in Europe? Check out my Europe SIM card buying guide, covering other European nations, such as:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Support Phone Travel Wiz
It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).
Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).
Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.
Check Out My Resource Page
Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience?
Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!
Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises & accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services & products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.
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A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
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Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!