Malta to Introduce €235 On-the-Spot Fine for Public Cannabis Use by Tourists

5 November 2026, 06:01

Non-habitual residents and tourists caught consuming cannabis in public places across Malta will soon face an immediate on-the-spot fine of €235. The enforcement measure was confirmed by Home Affairs Minister Glenn Bedingfield as part of efforts to curb illegal drug use in open areas.

Minister Bedingfield explained that the fixed financial penalty is intended to serve as a clear deterrent. By introducing a direct fine, authorities intend to address illicit behaviour promptly rather than waiting for lengthy administrative or judicial steps.

Malta substantially updated its drug legislation in late 2021, becoming the first country in the European Union to legalise the personal possession and home cultivation of cannabis within established parameters. However, the legal reform explicitly banned smoking cannabis in public locations, confining lawful consumption strictly to private residences or registered non-profit associations.

Enforcement against temporary visitors has previously posed practical challenges for local law enforcement. When non-residents were issued standard citations requiring court appearances, many departed the country before cases could be heard, blunting the impact of existing penalties.

The newly announced mechanism allows police officers and enforcement officials to issue and collect fines directly when an infraction is observed. This procedure ensures immediate accountability for individuals who do not reside permanently on the islands.

The policy marks an ongoing operational adjustment by the government to enforce public order while maintaining the distinction between permitted private use and unlawful public consumption.