OpenAI will offer Maltese residents free ChatGPT Plus access for a year after completing an AI course, starting May 2026.
OpenAI has reached a collaboration agreement with the Maltese government to offer free access to ChatGPT Plus for one year to residents who complete a fundamental AI training course.
This initiative is set to commence in May 2026, gradually expanding as more participants finish the training. The program is available not only to local residents but also to Maltese citizens living overseas.
Typically, a ChatGPT Plus subscription costs $20 monthly. Malta's population is approximately 550,000.
Silvio Schembri, the Economy Minister, emphasized the initiative's goal to convert AI from a theoretical idea into a practical resource for families, educators, and workers.
"Malta is the first nation to initiate such a collaborative effort aimed at ensuring our citizens remain competitive in the digital era. We are positioning our people as leaders in global transformation," Schembri remarked.
OpenAI highlighted that the project seeks to boost digital skills and promote the adoption of artificial intelligence across education, business sectors, and public services. This effort is part of the wider OpenAI for Countries initiative, through which the company partners with governments to facilitate AI integration.
Malta is proactively working on its national AI strategy and is a member of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence, positioning itself as a key player in Europe’s technological and regulatory landscape.
Additionally, in May, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.5-Cyber, a specialized version of its leading model tailored for cybersecurity applications.
