A guide to the export and import of cultural goods between Russia ...

Chapter 3: European Union Member States
Malta
The Cultural Heritage Act states: “‘No person may export, re-export or remove from Malta
(including territorial waters thereof) any cultural property without written permission of the
Superintendent”.
The export of cultural property to third countries (non-EU Member States) requires endorsement
by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage.
Packing lists compiled for customs purposes must be accompanied by a declaration form
stating that no cultural goods as defined in the Cultural Heritage Act are included. The Superintendence
of Cultural Heritage endorses accompanying customs documentation on the
basis of this declaration and reserves the right to inspect such property prior to export.
You can download a copy of the declaration form at:
http://www.culturalheritage.gov.mt/page.asp?p=3077&l=1
Packers are also expected to inform the Superintendence in advance as to when and
where they will be packing goods for export and/or movement purposes. Any necessary
procedural inspections can therefore be carried out on the date.
Cultural goods which fall within the categories, age and value thresholds of Council Regulation
3911/92 will need an EU export licence for export from Malta to Russia.
Are there different types of licence? What type of licence do I need?
The modalities for the export of cultural goods are:
• Export
• Temporary export
• Re-export
What are my first steps? How do I plan this process and how long might it take?
You need to apply to the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and follow the procedures
set out on the website at: http://www.culturalheritage.gov.mt/page.asp?p=3077&l=1. The
owner or their agent may apply for the licence. It will be approved or refused by the Superintendence.
A list of the goods to be exported must be supplied together with a description
of the item. Photographs may be required.
How do I find out if the art object I want to export is of national significance? Is there a Public
Inventory of cultural goods of special interest or importance?
The Cultural Heritage Act establishes a National Inventory of Cultural Property that includes
moveable cultural goods. You can seek information on the status of a good.
An object may be deemed to be of national importance depending on its value, rarity and
association with Maltese history, tradition and identity.
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