OpenAI, Malta agree free ChatGPT Plus rollout

On May 16, 2026, OpenAI announced a partnership with the government of Malta to provide nationwide access to its ChatGPT Plus service. Under the agreement, all Maltese residents will be eligible for one year of free ChatGPT Plus once they complete a required training course on the use of artificial intelligence.

The initiative positions Malta as the first country to roll out such a comprehensive AI accessibility program. It underscores a growing interest among governments in using advanced digital tools to support learning and work across the population.

The program is scheduled to begin in May 2026. Access will not be switched on all at once; instead, availability will expand gradually as more residents complete the free AI training course. This design links usage of ChatGPT Plus to a basic level of digital literacy and responsible AI use.

The training course required for eligibility is offered at no cost to participants. Completion of this course is the only condition stated for receiving one year of complimentary ChatGPT Plus access under the agreement.

Beyond residents living in Malta, the program will also extend to Maltese citizens residing overseas. These citizens will be able to access the same AI training and, upon completion, obtain one year of free ChatGPT Plus service.

By including citizens abroad, the initiative broadens its reach beyond Malta’s physical borders, aligning the offer with the global Maltese community rather than limiting it strictly to domestic users.

Maltese Economy Minister Silvio Schembri highlighted the government’s objective of turning artificial intelligence into practical support for families, students, and workers. The training-linked access model is intended to foster digital skills while enabling everyday use of AI tools.

The focus on families and the workforce reflects a policy goal of integrating AI into both education and economic activity. It aligns with wider governmental efforts to improve digital literacy as part of economic development strategies.

OpenAI has not disclosed any financial details of the agreement with Malta. No information has been provided on funding arrangements, cost-sharing, or the valuation of the one-year ChatGPT Plus access granted to eligible users.

The partnership illustrates how an AI provider and a national government can collaborate on large-scale access to advanced digital services. It also highlights the role of structured training as a prerequisite for broad public deployment of such tools.