Malta Import Duties & Taxes Explained

Stackry’s guide to the taxes, duties, and fees involved when shipping from the USA to

Malta

Overview

When your package arrives in Malta, you'll pay 18% VAT on all shipments regardless of value, plus customs duty if your goods exceed €150. The carrier also charges handling fees of €15-€25.

Your Questions Answered

Q1.

What is the duty free limit in Malta?

Malta has a €150 duty-free threshold for customs duty on your shipment. However, 18% import VAT applies to all commercial imports from the US with no minimum threshold.

Q2.

Do I pay VAT on my shipment to Malta?

Yes, you must pay 18% import VAT on all commercial shipments from the US to Malta, regardless of the item's value. This tax is calculated on the total landed cost (goods value plus shipping and insurance) plus any customs duty applied.

Q3.

How is the import VAT calculated on my shipment?

VAT is charged at 18% on the sum of your goods' value, shipping costs, insurance, and any customs duty levied. This means high shipping costs to Malta can increase your final VAT bill.

Q4.

Who collects the taxes and duties when my package arrives in Malta?

Your shipping carrier (such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS) or MaltaPost collects these charges on behalf of Malta Customs before releasing your shipment. They will contact you directly for payment upon arrival.

Q5.

Are there handling fees charged by the carrier for clearing my package?

Yes, carriers typically charge a clearance or brokerage fee ranging from €15 to €25 to process the customs entry and advance tax payments. This fee is separate from the VAT and duty amounts.

Q6.

What if my package value is exactly €150?

Customs duty generally applies when the value of goods exceeds €150, so a shipment valued at exactly €150 may be exempt from duty but will still incur the 18% import VAT. Always check the declared value carefully to estimate your costs accurately.

Helpful Resources

The links below are external references to official Malta government sources. We recommend reviewing them for the most accurate and up-to-date information on taxes and duties for Malta.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended as a general overview of customs duties, import taxes, and related processes. It is not comprehensive and may not reflect the most current regulations.We recommend checking official customs or government sources to confirm the exact rules, charges, and requirements before making any purchasing or shipping decisions.While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee its completeness and are not responsible for any discrepancies or inaccuracies.