Electricity in Malta, do you need an electrical adapter in Malta?
Planning a trip to Malta and wondering if you’ll be able to plug in your phone or laptop without frying it—or if you need an adapter at all? Here’s what English-speaking travelers (whether from the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, or elsewhere) need to know before they go.
Plug Types in Malta
Malta uses Type G outlets, the same three-rectangular-pin system found in the United Kingdom and Ireland. So, if you’re coming from Britain or Ireland, you can plug in your devices without needing any adapter. Travelers from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or mainland Europe, however, will typically need an adapter to fit Type G sockets.
Do You Need an Adapter?
- From the UK or Ireland: No adapter is needed, as Malta’s plugs and voltage match what you use at home.
- From the US or Canada: You’ll need both an adapter (to change from flat pins to three rectangular pins) and a voltage converter/transformer if your device isn’t dual-voltage. Malta’s voltage is 230 V (versus ~110 V in North America).
- From Australia, New Zealand, or Asia: Many of these regions use Type I or other plug types, so you’ll need at least an adapter. Check your device’s voltage range to see if a converter is also necessary (Malta is 230 V, 50 Hz).
- From Mainland Europe (France, Germany, Italy, etc.): You’ll need a small adapter (Type E/F to Type G). The voltage is the same (230 V), so no converter is required in most cases.
Most phones, tablets, and laptops these days are dual-voltage (100 V–240 V), so you’ll usually only need a plug adapter. Always double-check the label on your charger or device.
How Does the Electrical System Work in Malta?
In Malta, the voltage is 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz, and the outlets are type G. In most countries of continental Europe, the outlets are types E or F.
On the island, you can use your electrical appliances if their voltage ranges between 220 and 240 V. This standard applies across European countries: France, Spain, Belgium, Italy, etc., as well as in the UK, Australia, and most countries in Asia and Africa. However, if you come from a country where the voltage is between 110 V and 127 V, such as the United States, Canada, or South America, you cannot use your electronic equipment without a converter or a high-voltage transformer.
Before plugging in your electrical devices, check the information on the male plug (the one with the prongs). The indications regarding the accepted voltage range must be clearly marked. If it says Input: 100-240V, it means that your device is equipped with a built-in transformer and will work perfectly in Malta.
It is also important to pay attention to the frequency of the alternating current. If your devices require a different electrical frequency than the 50 Hz used in Malta, it is advisable not to use them. This is especially true for hairdryers and irons, as they could be damaged during use. This warning does not apply to electrical appliances compliant with European Community standards but rather targets North American standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I’m from the UK—do I need an adapter?
No. Malta’s Type G plugs are exactly the same as in the UK. You can plug in directly.
Will my devices work in Malta without a converter?
If you’re from a country with 220-240 V (like the UK, Ireland, most of Europe, Australia, parts of Asia): you’re fine. Just ensure you have an adapter if your plug shape differs. If you’re from a 110-120 V country (like the US or Canada) and your device isn’t dual-voltage, you need a step-up transformer or converter in addition to the adapter.
Is the frequency (50 Hz) an issue for my electronics?
Most modern electronics can handle variations in frequency without a problem, especially if they’re labeled “50/60 Hz.” High-power devices like hairdryers or irons may be more sensitive, so check the label.
How much does an adapter cost in Malta?
Expect to pay between €5 and €15, depending on whether you want a simple adapter or a universal, multi-country version.