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

Malta
Chapter 3: European Union Member States
Do museums and galleries need licences for temporary exports (e.g. a touring exhibition)? Do
non-profit organisations need export licences?
Yes. Museums, galleries and non-profit organisations must normally apply for licences.
Permission may be given for temporary export for the purpose of restoration or exhibition
without the need to pay the valuation duty referred to below. The Cultural Heritage Act
sets out “Special Powers of the State” that give discretion to the Superintendent of Cultural
Heritage when cultural goods are exported for exhibition or restoration.
When you apply for a temporary export permit, you must provide the following additional
documentation:
• A status report on the conservation of the items including photographs
• A declaration by a qualified conservator on the fitness to be transported of the cultural
goods
• Insurance details
• Itinerary details
A temporary export permit will set a time limit for the return of the goods. This may be
extended following application to the Superintendence.
I am a tourist visiting Malta. If I buy a work of art, how do I take it home with me?
The export regulations apply to anyone who wants to take cultural goods of a certain age
and value from Malta to Russia (or to another country). You must go through the application
process with the Maltese national authorities in order for the goods to be cleared for
export.
Since cultural goods, as defined in the Cultural Heritage Act, cannot be exported without
permission, you should get advice before committing to an expensive purchase since you
may not be able to take it out of the country.
Is there a fee for an export licence?
Yes. You must pay duty on the valuation of the object. This is 5 % of the value of the
goods, as set out in the Schedule to the Act.
Does the cultural object need to be valued? If so, who will do this?
Cultural goods are subject to expertise when the value is in doubt. The evaluation is undertaken
by the Superintendence and costs are regulated by the relevant legal notice.
Can I appeal against the valuation or against the refusal of a licence? How do I do that?
Yes. The Cultural Heritage Act sets out the procedure for setting up an Appeals Board if
required. You should write to the Minister responsible for the Culture Sector.
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