Is third-party motor insurance actually mandatory in Malta?

Yes, third-party motor liability insurance is mandatory in Malta, reflecting requirements under Maltese insurance regulation connected to the Insurance Business Act, Chapter 403 of the Laws of Malta, and related motor vehicle legislation, meaning it is a genuine legal requirement rather than simply a recommended precaution, and driving a vehicle in Malta without at least this minimum required coverage would put you in breach of the law, potentially exposing you to significant penalties beyond just the financial risk of being uninsured if an accident occurs. Third-party coverage specifically protects against your liability for injury or damage you cause to other people or their property, but it's worth understanding that this minimum legal requirement does not cover damage to your own vehicle, meaning many drivers choose to purchase more comprehensive coverage beyond the mandatory minimum for their own protection, even though only the third-party element is actually a strict legal requirement. Before purchasing your policy, it would be worth having an insurance broker or the insurer themselves clearly confirm exactly what level of coverage you're being offered and its cost, so you can make an informed decision about whether to purchase just the mandatory minimum or additional voluntary coverage for your own vehicle.