Malta named safest country for LGBTQ+ travellers

Malta has been named the safest country for LGBTQ+ travellers in the LGBTQ+ Risk Map for 2025, which offers an overview of global travel safety for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Compiled by A3M Global Monitoring, a provider of travel risk assessment tools, and developed in collaboration with Diversity Tourism and ITB Berlin, the map highlights both legal frameworks and lived experiences of queer travellers across the world.

The map categorises countries into five risk levels, ranging from Level 1 (low risk) to Level 5 (extreme risk), based on legal protections, societal attitudes, and the likelihood of discrimination or persecution.

The Mediterranean nation earned a Level 1 rating, reflecting its progressive legal protections, inclusive policies, and high levels of societal acceptance. Malta continues to lead global equality rankings and is widely regarded as a model for LGBTQ+ rights.

Canada and Spain also received top marks. In both countries, 100% of survey respondents said LGBTQ+ people are treated with respect. Public displays of affection are widely accepted, and interactions with authorities are generally positive and supportive.

In contrast, countries such as Germany and the United States show a more complex picture. While LGBTQ+ rights are enshrined in law, regional disparities and cultural attitudes can still pose challenges for travellers. Social acceptance varies, and experiences may differ significantly depending on location.

The UK is rated as a Level 2 country, which means that while legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals are in place, including anti-discrimination laws and marriage equality, societal perceptions are mixed, particularly outside of major urban centres.

At the other end of the spectrum, countries rated Level 4 and Level 5 pose serious risks. These include criminalisation of same-sex relationships, risk of arrest, deportation, or corporal punishment, and in some cases, the death penalty for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Iran took the top spot as homosexuality is still criminalised in the country, with same-sex acts punishable by lashes or the death penalty.

“Although trans people occasionally receive state-supported gender reassignment surgery, the attitude of large sections of society towards people from the LGBTQ+ community is predominantly negative, even hostile,” reads the report.

“Travellers are at the highest risk: even suspicion of homosexuality can result in immediate arrest, torture or even execution.”

The map is based on a global survey conducted between December 2024 and April 2025, involving LGBTQ+ travel experts and frequent travellers. It captures not only legal conditions but also subjective experiences such as safety in public spaces, access to healthcare, and the use of dating apps and social networks while abroad.

Ramona Zaun, LGBTQ+ commissioner at ITB Berlin, commented: “This map goes beyond legal analysis. It reflects the real-world experiences of queer travellers and helps us advocate for safer, more inclusive tourism.”

For more info and to view the map, CLICK HERE