Only items listed in the Schedules to the Importation Control Regulations (LN 242 of 2004), require an import licence. The lists include a wide range of goods including live animals, meat and fish products, dairy products, vegetables and fruit, beverages, chemicals and chemical preparations, pharmaceuticals, fuel, detergents, pyrotechnics and weapons amongst others. The full list of goods (classified by HS Code) subject to import licensing can be found in the table​​​ below.
If assistance is required to determine whether an import is licensable, the Import/Export Unit may be consulted on 21226688/25690100/25690101 or [email protected]. When asking for information, provide the HS Code and indicate the country from where the goods are coming to Malta.

The information required in the application form must be provided in full. This covers the details of the importer and of any representative engaged, the country of origin of the goods, the exporting country, the H.S. Code, quantity and description of the item being imported. Further details on how to fill in the form can be found in the Guidelines Section.
For 4 categories – HS 2710, 3808, 3003 and 3004, the application must be accompanied by supporting documents. Specific information about these codes can be found below.

Applications can be accessed through the Malta Import/Export Web Portal.  Applicants are required to Login using their e-ID login and password.  Once an application is submitted, the applicant can view its status from the ‘Applications’ section.

The Commerce Department will forward on the same web portal any request for clarifications and eventually the licence.

For specific product categories, the Commerce Department consults other competent entities prior to issuing a licence. These entities may approach you for clarifications or for further documentation. A list of endorsing authorities  and their contact details can be found below.

The Harmonized System (HS) is a tool for classifying goods. The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as tariff nomenclature, is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers to classify traded products.

The HS Code can be found from the Tariff Number website. The supplier or manufacturer should also be able to provide it. A 4-digit level HS Code is required for application purposes.

The specific list of items which need an import authorisation is found here

Filing of an application is free of charge. Similarly, the issuance of a licence.

An import licence is normally valid for 8 months from the date of issue. The expiry date is shown on the licence.

A separate application form is needed for every HS Code and for every different country of origin and country of consignment. There are no caps on the quantity of each application.

No, expired licences cannot be renewed. A new application would have to be submitted.

Assuming a complete and correct submission, and in cases where no clearances from other entities need to be obtained by the Department, an application normally only takes a few working days to be processed. On the other hand, the Commerce Department cannot advise on how long it will take to issue licences when consultation with external entities are required. Goods falling in this category are identified in the table​ below.

Yes, applications must be backed by supporting document depending on the provenance of the petroleum. Refer to the page listing the specific requirements by product.

Applications and supporting documents are to be submitted through the Malta Import/Export Web Portal.  Applications not supported with these documents will be considered incomplete. There is however an exemption from this requirement for importation of oil samples not exceeding 150 litres.
It is to be appreciated that applications for this product category (2710) involve a distinct scrutiny process, particularly when the countries involved have sanctions considerations.  This may be a lengthy process and is not time bound.

Only consignments arriving from non-EU countries need an import licence. When completing Section 1 of the e-application, indicate the brand name of the product to be imported in the box Description of Product.

Moreover, the application must be supported with a copy of the notification/authorisation document issued by MCCAA and a scan of the product’s label. Applications and supporting documents are to be submitted through the Malta Import/Export Web Portal.

Applications not supported by these documents will be considered incomplete and will be returned to the applicant so that the necessary information is provided.  Processing will start only when all requested documents are submitted.

EU or third-country based companies may equally apply for import licences.​