How to Call Malta
Complete guide to dialing Malta (country code +356)
Planning to connect with someone in Malta? Whether you're calling for business, reaching out to friends and family, or arranging travel plans, understanding how to call Malta correctly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Malta from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and local number formats, plus highlight common mistakes people make when placing international calls. You'll also learn about Maltese phone etiquette to ensure your conversations start on the right foot, and we've included a handy list of useful numbers for emergencies, tourist information, and essential services. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently calling Malta like a pro.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Malta from abroad, follow this standard format: Exit Code + 356 + Local Number. Malta's country code is +356, and all local numbers are 8 digits long. Notably, Maltese numbers don't use a leading zero, so you dial exactly as displayed.
Step-by-Step Instructions by Country
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 356 (Malta country code)
- Dial the 8-digit local number
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 356 (Malta country code)
- Dial the 8-digit local number
From Australia:
- Dial 0011 (exit code)
- Dial 356 (Malta country code)
- Dial the 8-digit local number
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Maltese mobile number (starting with 7 or 9):
- Local format: 7912 3456
- From USA: 011-356-7912-3456
- From UK: 00-356-7912-3456
Example 2 - Calling a Maltese landline (starting with 2):
- Local format: 2133 4567
- From USA: 011-356-2133-4567
- From UK: 00-356-2133-4567
Example 3 - Calling another landline:
- Local format: 2798 1234
- From USA: 011-356-2798-1234
- From Australia: 0011-356-2798-1234
Important Notes About Leading Zeros
Unlike many countries, Malta does not use a leading zero in its phone numbers. When you see a Maltese number written locally as 2133 4567 or 9912 3456, dial it exactly as shown—no zero to drop or add.
Mobile vs. Landline Identification
Mobile numbers typically start with 7 or 9, while landlines begin with 2. This distinction helps identify the number type but doesn't change the dialing procedure.
For international calls using mobile phones, you can replace the exit code with + (press and hold 0 on most phones): +356-XXXX-XXXX.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Malta, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Adding unnecessary area codes
Malta doesn't use area codes. The country code +356 is followed directly by the 8-digit local number. Don't search for additional codes or you'll dial incorrectly.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers forget that exit codes vary by country. Use 011 from the US/Canada, 00 from Europe, or simply use the + symbol which works universally on mobile phones.
3. Including the leading zero
Some assume Maltese numbers start with zero, but they don't. If you see a local number written as "2133 1234," dial +356 2133 1234, not +356 0 2133 1234.
4. Incorrect digit count
Maltese numbers are always 8 digits after the country code. If you have fewer or more digits, double-check the number. A complete international call should be: +356 XXXX XXXX.
5. Forgetting the plus sign
When saving contacts, always include the + before 356. This ensures the number works regardless of which country you're calling from.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Malta, understanding local customs will help you communicate more effectively and respectfully.
Greetings and Tone
Maltese people typically answer with "Helo" or "Bongu" (good morning). For business calls, start formally with your name and purpose. Personal calls can be more relaxed, but initial politeness is appreciated. Maltese communication style balances warmth with respect, so be friendly yet courteous.
Business vs Personal Calls
Business calls should be professional and concise during working hours. However, Maltese culture values relationships, so don't be surprised if conversations include brief personal exchanges. Personal calls tend to be warmer and may last longer, as Maltese people enjoy genuine conversation.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling during siesta time (approximately 1-4 PM), especially for personal matters. Business calls work best between 9 AM and 12:30 PM or after 4 PM. Evening calls after 9 PM should be reserved for close friends or urgent matters.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, brief voice messages is standard practice. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Many Maltese prefer returning calls rather than lengthy voicemail exchanges.
Cultural Considerations
Malta's bilingual population speaks both Maltese and English, so either language is acceptable. Don't rush conversations—Maltese people appreciate genuine interaction over transactional communication. If someone doesn't answer, one follow-up call is appropriate; persistent calling may seem pushy.
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Emergency Numbers
112 – European Emergency Number
Single point of contact for police, ambulance, and fire services. Available 24/7 with English-speaking operators.
191 – Police (Direct Line)
For reporting crimes and non-emergency police matters.
196 – Fire Department (Direct Line)
Direct contact for fire emergencies and rescue services.
196 – Ambulance (Direct Line)
Emergency medical assistance and ambulance dispatch.
21231231 – Mater Dei Hospital
Malta's main hospital for medical emergencies and information.
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from mobile phones, landlines, and payphones throughout Malta and Gozo. The 112 number works across all EU countries and automatically connects you to the appropriate emergency service. English is widely spoken by all emergency operators, making it easy for tourists and expatriates to communicate during emergencies. Services operate 24/7 year-round.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 1182: Directory enquiries for local telephone numbers and business information
- 1152: International directory assistance for numbers outside Malta
Tourist & Visitor Services
- 2291 5000: Malta Tourism Authority helpline for travel information and assistance
- 2122 4301: Visit Malta information center
International Services
- 00: International operator for placing assisted overseas calls
Embassy & Consular Contacts
- Contact your embassy directly for consular services; major embassies maintain 24/7 emergency lines for citizens
Utility & Public Services
- 2122 2122: Enemalta (electricity provider)
- 2295 7000: Water Services Corporation
- 8007 2000: Transport Malta customer service
Healthcare Information
- 196: Pharmacy helpline for locating open pharmacies
Keep these numbers saved in your phone for convenient access during your stay.
Tips for Calling Malta
When calling Malta, keep in mind the country operates on Central European Time (UTC+1) or Central European Summer Time (UTC+2 from late March to late October). For international callers, early afternoon in North American time zones typically aligns well with Malta's business hours.
Standard business hours run Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with many offices closing between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM for lunch. Always schedule business calls in advance, preferably via email, to ensure availability and demonstrate professionalism.
Avoid calling on public holidays including Independence Day (September 21), Republic Day (December 13), and major religious observances like Good Friday and Assumption Day (August 15). Fridays after 2 PM tend to be less productive for business matters.
For clearer communication, speak slowly—while Maltese professionals speak excellent English, accounting for any accent differences helps. Confirm callback numbers including country codes, and follow up important calls with written summaries. Using video calling platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams often proves more effective than traditional phone calls for detailed business discussions, allowing for visual aids and better connection quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Malta is +356. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when calling Malta from abroad. Malta uses 8-digit local phone numbers, so a complete number will look like +356 XXXX XXXX.
To dial Malta from your cell phone, press and hold '0' to get the '+' symbol, then dial 356 followed by the 8-digit local number. For example: +356 1234 5678. Alternatively, you can dial 00356 instead of +356.
Malta does not use leading zeros in its phone numbers, so there's nothing to drop. Maltese phone numbers are 8 digits long without any prefix zeros. Simply dial +356 followed by the complete 8-digit local number.
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In Malta, dial 112 for all emergencies (police, fire, ambulance). This is the standard European emergency number and works from any phone, even without credit. You can also dial 999 for emergencies. These calls are free.
Yes! You can call Malta directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, and start making calls to Malta without downloading any software or apps. It's convenient and works on any device.
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