Malta Becomes First Country to Offer Free ChatGPT Plus to All Citizens

Malta has taken a groundbreaking step in the world of technology by signing a major agreement with OpenAI to provide free ChatGPT Plus subscriptions to all eligible citizens and residents for one year.

With this initiative, Malta has become the first country in the world to offer nationwide free access to OpenAI’s premium artificial intelligence service.

According to the government announcement, all Maltese citizens and residents aged 14 or older will qualify for the program. However, participants must first complete a short online digital training course focused on the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

The course has been developed by the University of Malta and is designed to educate users about what AI is, what it cannot do, and how it can be safely and effectively used in everyday life, education, and professional work.

Reports indicate that more than 574,000 people living in Malta could benefit from the initiative. ChatGPT Plus normally costs 20 dollars per month in the United States, but under this agreement, it will be provided free of charge for one year.

The Maltese government also confirmed that citizens currently living abroad will be eligible for the offer, ensuring that no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital era.

The first phase of the program will begin in May and will be supervised by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority, which will oversee subscription distribution to eligible participants.

Malta’s Economy Minister Silvio Schembri said the initiative is aimed at providing practical support to students, workers, and citizens by equipping them with modern digital skills.

Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg said the government does not want any citizen to fall behind in the age of advanced technology.

OpenAI’s Head of International Affairs, George Osborne, praised Malta’s leadership, saying the country is setting an example for Europe and the world by bringing AI technology to all citizens.