Quick Facts
| Legal Status | Medical Since | Adult Use | Access Type | Est. Monthly Cost | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal — Medical + Adult Use (2021) | 2018 (medical) / 2021 (adult use) | Yes (MACCA regulated) | Specialist prescription via MACCA | €80–€200/month | No |
Legal Timeline
| Year | Development |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Medical cannabis legalised; Ministry of Health oversees early programme |
| 2021 | Malta becomes first EU country to legalise adult-use cannabis — MACCA (Malta Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis) established |
| 2022 | Cannabis Social Clubs permitted; cultivation at home (up to 7g per adult) |
| 2023 | MACCA expands approved medical products list |
How to Access Medical Cannabis in Malta
- Obtain referral from your GP to a specialist doctor registered with MACCA
- Specialist assesses your condition against approved qualifying criteria
- If approved, specialist submits application to MACCA for a medical cannabis permit
- MACCA issues permit; medication dispensed from authorised pharmacies
- Follow-up review every 6 months to maintain permit
Qualifying Conditions
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy
- Cancer-related pain and nausea
- Multiple sclerosis
- Neuropathic pain
- Palliative care conditions
- PTSD
Licensed Providers & Clinics
| Provider | Website | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MACCA | macca.gov.mt | Malta Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis — official regulator and permit issuer |
| Mater Dei Hospital | Main public hospital; specialist referrals for medical cannabis |
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost (€) | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Medical cannabis (monthly supply) | €80–€200 | Not covered by state insurance |
| Specialist consultation | €60–€150 | Partially covered if via public system |
| MACCA permit fee | Minimal administrative fee | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis legal in Malta?+
Yes — Malta was the first EU country to legalise adult-use cannabis in 2021. Adults may possess up to 7g in public and grow up to 4 plants at home. Medical cannabis is available via specialist prescription through MACCA.
How do I access medical cannabis in Malta?+
Your GP refers you to a MACCA-registered specialist. If the specialist deems cannabis appropriate, they apply to MACCA for a medical cannabis permit on your behalf. Once approved, you collect medication from an authorised pharmacy.
Is medical cannabis covered by health insurance in Malta?+
Currently, medical cannabis is not reimbursed by Maltese state health insurance. Patients pay out of pocket. Costs are generally lower than other EU countries due to shorter supply chains.
What is MACCA?+
MACCA (Malta Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis) is the government body established in 2021 to regulate both medical and adult-use cannabis in Malta. It issues medical permits, oversees Social Clubs, and enforces quality standards.
Can I join a Cannabis Social Club in Malta?+
Adults over 18 may join a MACCA-registered Cannabis Social Club, which can cultivate and distribute cannabis to members. Membership is capped and clubs must register with MACCA.
What products are available medically in Malta?+
Approved products include dried flower, oils, and standardised extracts from MACCA-authorised suppliers. Product availability is expanding as the local market develops.