Public Consultation on the Draft Regulations for the Registration and Warranting of the Veterinary Surgeons Profession
The proposed Veterinary Surgeons Profession (Registration and Warranting) Regulations, 2026 seek to improve and strengthen the legal framework governing the veterinary profession in Malta. The regulations introduce a comprehensive system for the registration, warranting and regulation of Veterinary Surgeons, while ensuring high professional standards, animal welfare and public health protection. The new regulations ensure conformity with EU directives and regulations covering Veterinary profession standards, mutual recognition of qualifications and services within the internal market.
Under the proposed framework, all persons wishing to practise as Veterinary Surgeons in Malta will be required to satisfy clear eligibility criteria, including recognised veterinary qualifications, proof of good conduct, adequate physical and mental fitness, knowledge of one of Malta’s official languages and legal entitlement to work in Malta. The regulations also establish a transparent application process, with defined timelines for the Veterinary Surgeons’ Council to acknowledge and determine applications. Where significant differences in qualifications exist, applicants may be required to undertake aptitude tests or adaptation periods to ensure equivalence with Maltese standards.
The proposal also regulates Veterinary Surgeons established in other European Union Member States who wish to provide temporary or occasional services in Malta. These professionals will be able to practise through a declaration process, supported by evidence of professional qualifications and professional liability insurance. In addition, all registered Veterinary Surgeons will be required to maintain professional liability insurance, comply with the Code of Professional Conduct, keep their details updated with the Council and fulfil Continuing Professional Development requirements. Newly qualified Veterinary Surgeons will also be required to complete a Professional Development Phase aimed at supporting their transition into professional practice.
The regulations further protect a number of professional titles, including Veterinary Surgeon, Veterinarian and Vet, restricting their use to authorised and registered professionals. They also define a broad range of reserved veterinary activities, including clinical examinations, diagnosis, treatment, surgery, anaesthesia and specialised procedures, which may only be performed by authorised Veterinary Surgeons. Finally, the proposal establishes registration and renewal fees, strengthens enforcement mechanisms and introduces administrative and criminal penalties for unauthorised practice, misuse of protected titles and the performance of reserved activities without the necessary authorisation. Together, these measures aim to provide greater legal certainty, improve professional oversight and ensure the continued protection of animal and public health in Malta.
Stakeholders are invited to submit their feedback in writing through the Public Consultation Form below.
The Draft Regulations can be accessed through the following link:
https://food.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/draft-LN-vet-surgeons-registration-warranting-EN.pdf
