All three local carriers in Malta, including GO, operate on 5G, ensuring robust coverage across the islands. However, purchasing a local SIM requires a passport, adding some friction. For most travelers, eSIM is the best route, allowing for easy activation before arrival.
Local carriers include GO, Epic, and Melita, while eSIM options feature Airalo, Saily, Yesim, and GigSky. Yesim offers the cheapest eSIM starting at USD 0.49. Expect to pay between USD 9-31 for local SIMs. If your priority is seamless connectivity, jump to the provider overview.
Providers at a glance
| Provider | Type | Network / Rating | Price floor | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GO | Local SIM | 5G | USD 9-31 | Default pick for any urban itinerary. |
| Epic | Local SIM | 5G | USD 9-31 | Skip unless you prefer Epic’s specific offerings. |
| Melita | Local SIM | 5G | USD 9-31 | Good option if you find a better deal. |
| Airalo | eSIM | 4.4/5 | USD 10 | Solid choice for reliable eSIM connectivity. |
| Saily | eSIM | 4.7/5 | USD 15 | Great for travelers needing flexible data options. |
| Yesim | eSIM | 4.6/5 | USD 0.49 | Best for budget-conscious travelers needing quick access. |
| GigSky | eSIM | 4.5/5 | USD 10 | Reliable option for international travelers. |
How much data you actually need
| Traveler profile | Daily activities | GB per week |
|---|---|---|
| Light user – messaging and maps only | WhatsApp, Google Maps offline, occasional ride-hailing | 1 GB |
| Casual tourist – social and email | Instagram stories, WhatsApp photos, hotel booking confirmations, light maps | 3 GB |
| Heavy social user – daily video and stories | Reels, TikTok, Instagram video posts, video calls home | 8 GB |
| Streaming traveler – music and video | Spotify on the move, Netflix on bus rides, YouTube | 15 GB |
| Digital nomad – remote work + streaming | Zoom calls, cloud sync, Slack, evening Netflix, hotspot to laptop | 30 GB |
| Family hotspot – multiple devices | Two adults + kids, four to six devices on hotspot, streaming + maps + calls | 40 GB |
Local SIM cards in Malta
Malta offers three local carriers all running on 5G: GO, Epic, and Melita. Prices range from USD 10 to USD 28 for 10 GB to unlimited data plans valid 30 days. Passport registration is mandatory at point of sale. Coverage differences are minimal across the island, making price and plan type the main decision factors. GO leads with a 4/5 sentiment score thanks to strong 5G and fair pricing, making it the default pick for most travelers.
GO 5G4/5USD 12-28
Airport arrivals and fair pricing
Buy GO for its top-rated 5G network and balanced pricing, especially if landing at Malta Airport for quick activation.
GO stands out by combining a strong 5G network with convenient airport and city shop availability, making it ideal for travelers arriving at Malta Airport. Its 20 GB plan at USD 12 offers solid value, roughly USD 0.60 per GB. Passport registration slows activation but is standard across carriers. Coverage is consistent across Malta and Gozo, so no major dead zones. Avoid GO only if budget is the absolute priority and unlimited data is needed, where Epic offers better options.
Epic 5G4/5USD 10-25
Unlimited data seekers and longer stays
Choose Epic for the best unlimited data deal on Malta with solid 5G coverage matching GO’s network.
Epic’s main advantage is its unlimited 30-day plan at USD 25, ideal for travelers needing heavy data use or longer stays. Its 5G coverage matches GO’s island-wide reach, including key urban areas like Valletta and Sliema. Activation requires visiting a store and showing a passport, which may add friction compared to airport purchase. Epic suits digital nomads or families who prioritize data volume over slightly lower prices. Avoid Epic if arriving late or needing immediate airport activation.
Melita 5G4/5USD 10-24
Budget-conscious travelers in urban areas
Consider Melita for solid coverage and competitive pricing, especially if focusing on urban hotspots like Valletta and Sliema.
Melita is a solid third option with competitive pricing and good 5G coverage in Malta’s main towns, including Valletta, Sliema, and Mellieha. Its 10 GB plan at USD 10 is the cheapest entry point, making it attractive for short trips or light data users. Lack of specific installation details suggests buying at general outlets or shops. Melita is less compelling for travelers needing airport activation or unlimited data but works well for budget travelers focused on city areas.
eSIM options for Malta
Malta offers four eSIM providers: Airalo, Saily, Yesim, and GigSky, each with distinct price points and validity periods. The absolute cheapest eSIM starts at USD 0.49 from Yesim for 0.5 GB valid 1 day. For more data, Yesim also offers the cheapest 10 GB plan at USD 17.28 valid 30 days and the cheapest 20 GB plan at USD 21.6 for 30 days. GigSky provides an unlimited plan for USD 3.74 valid 1 day. Compared to local SIMs, eSIMs offer competitive pricing without the passport scan friction. Yesim stands out as the cheapest for the 1 GB tier and most data bundles.
| Provider | Rating | ~1 GB | ~5 GB | ~10 GB | Unlimited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo → | 4/5 (Trustpilot) | USD 4.5 / 3 days | USD 12 / 7 days | USD 19 / 7 days | n/a |
| Saily → | 4.7/5 (Trustpilot) | USD 4.49 / 7 days | USD 12.99 / 30 days | USD 19.99 / 30 days | USD 48.99 / 5 days |
| Yesim → | 4.4/5 (App Store) | USD 4.32 / 30 days | USD 9.72 / 30 days | USD 17.28 / 30 days | n/a |
| GigSky → | 4.2/5 (Trustpilot) | USD 4.99 / 7 days | USD 10.19 / 30 days | USD 23.37 / 30 days | USD 3.74 / 1 days |
Per-provider deep dive
Airalo
Airalo offers short-term plans with validity as low as 3 days, ideal for quick trips. Its 1 GB plan costs USD 4.5 for 3 days, which is pricier per GB than Yesim but suits travelers needing brief coverage. Airalo’s eSIM rides on Malta’s 5G networks, ensuring solid speeds. It lacks unlimited plans and longer validity options, making it less suitable for extended stays or heavy data users.
Saily
Saily holds the highest user rating at 4.7/5 and offers plans with longer validity, like 5 GB for USD 12.99 valid 30 days. It also provides an expensive unlimited 5-day plan at USD 48.99, which only fits travelers needing unlimited data for very short periods. Saily’s eSIM runs on Malta’s 5G networks and targets users valuing longer validity and high ratings over the lowest price.
Yesim
Yesim is the cheapest across most data tiers, with a standout 1 GB plan at USD 4.32 valid 30 days and a 20 GB plan at USD 21.6 for 30 days. It uses Malta’s 5G networks and suits budget-conscious travelers who want longer validity and solid data volumes. Yesim’s pricing makes it the best value for solo travelers and luxury-comfort seekers who want to avoid local SIM friction.
GigSky
GigSky offers a unique unlimited 1-day plan at USD 3.74, perfect for ultra-short visits or emergencies. Its 5 GB plan costs USD 10.19 valid 30 days, slightly above Yesim but still competitive. GigSky’s eSIM also runs on Malta’s 5G networks. It fits travelers who prioritize flexibility and occasional unlimited data but is less cost-effective for longer stays.
Logistics and audience advice
What to bring for a local SIM
- Unlocked phone compatible with local networks
- Payment method accepted at point of sale
- Passport required at point of sale
What to bring for an eSIM
- eSIM-compatible phone with EID
- Stable WiFi for QR-scan activation
- Mobile data toggled on the correct line
How to activate
- 1
Choose your provider
Select a local carrier like GO, Epic, or Melita at an airport booth or mall outlet. Tip: GO is the top-rated carrier by user sentiment.
- 2
Present your passport
Show your passport at the point of sale to complete the purchase. Tip: Keep your passport handy to avoid delays.
- 3
Select your plan
Choose a plan that fits your data needs, with options ranging from USD 9 to USD 31. Tip: Check for any promotional offers at the counter.
- 4
Install the SIM card
Insert the SIM card into your phone and follow the activation instructions provided. Tip: Restart your phone to ensure the SIM is recognized.
- 5
Test your connection
Make a test call or use data to confirm your SIM is working properly. Tip: If issues arise, return to the point of sale for assistance.
Which route suits you
| Traveler | Route | Recommended | Why | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-time explorer | eSIM | Saily → | Saily offers a smooth onboarding experience with high user ratings, ideal for first-time travelers. | Pay USD 0.49 for easy connectivity. |
| Family with kids | eSIM | Airalo → | Airalo allows hotspot sharing, making it suitable for families needing multiple devices connected. | Pay USD 9 for 5 GB, great for family use. |
| Digital nomad | Either | Epic | Epic offers competitive pricing for long stays, making it a solid choice for digital nomads. | USD 31 for 30 GB is excellent value. |
| Budget backpacker | Local SIM | GO | GO is the top local carrier by sentiment and offers the best cost-per-GB for budget travelers. | Cheapest path: USD 9 for 10 GB. |
| Luxury comfort seeker | eSIM | GigSky → | GigSky provides a premium experience with high ratings, perfect for luxury travelers. | Pay USD 14 for 1 GB, worth the premium. |
Troubleshooting and FAQ
Fix this when internet stops working
Three silent killers of vacation internet:
Check balance, top up, extend validity
Keep your SIM working through your trip:
- Check balance: Check your remaining data balance with GO by using the carrier app on iOS or Android, as no specific USSD code is provided for balance inquiries.
- Top up: To top up or extend validity with GO, visit a carrier counter or use the carrier app on iOS or Android. Note that bundles may expire regardless of remaining data.
- Hidden opportunity: Consider using a multi-country regional eSIM, which can be cheaper than a single-country eSIM if you plan to continue to a neighboring country.
Frequently asked questions
1Is a local SIM still worth buying in Malta?
Local SIMs are not essential in Malta due to excellent EU roaming. However, if you plan to stay longer or need unlimited data, consider a local SIM from GO.
2What is the cheapest eSIM option in Malta?
The cheapest eSIM option is from Yesim, starting at USD 0.49, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers needing data.
3What coverage can I expect with local carriers?
All local carriers, including GO, Epic, and Melita, provide 5G coverage, ensuring fast and reliable internet access throughout Malta.
4How do I check my data balance with GO?
Check your remaining data balance with GO using the carrier app on iOS or Android, as no specific USSD code is provided.
5How can I top up my GO SIM?
To top up your GO SIM, visit a carrier counter or use the GO carrier app on iOS or Android to extend your validity.
6What is the validity period for eSIM plans?
eSIM plans from providers like Yesim typically offer various validity periods, so check the specific plan details when purchasing.
7Is WiFi available in public spaces in Malta?
Yes, WiFi is excellent throughout Malta, available in hotels, cafes, bars, and public spaces, making it easy to stay connected.
8What is the sentiment score for GO in Malta?
GO has the highest user sentiment score of 5, indicating strong customer satisfaction with their services.
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