Malta Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Malta, a Mediterranean island nation known for its sunshine, history, and stability, has become one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations for foreign professionals and workers.

With a booming economy, a growing demand for international talent, and an open immigration policy, Malta offers rewarding career opportunities and a high quality of life for people from all over the world.

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the Malta Work Visa and Work Permit — including eligibility, types, process, documentation, costs, job opportunities, and FAQs — to help you begin your journey to work legally in Malta.

Why Work in Malta

1. A Thriving and Stable Economy

Malta’s economy has been expanding steadily, driven by tourism, finance, manufacturing, healthcare, construction, and information technology.

The country’s strategic location makes it a gateway between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

2. High Demand for Foreign Workers

Due to labour shortages in many sectors, Malta attracts professionals and general workers from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and African countries, offering legal employment under EU labour laws.

3. Legal Pathway to the European Union

As a member of the EU and the Schengen Zone, Malta provides a direct, legal entry route for non-EU citizens who wish to live and work in Europe.

4. Excellent Living Standards

Malta offers a safe, multilingual environment with affordable living, a pleasant climate, and access to universal healthcare and education.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residence and Citizenship

After a few years of continuous legal residence, foreign workers can apply for Permanent Residence and later Maltese citizenship, gaining full EU benefits.

6. Transparent and Streamlined Procedures

The Maltese government operates a clear and efficient immigration system, ensuring fair and quick processing of work permits and visas.

Understanding the Malta Work Permit

A Malta Work Permit allows non-EU nationals to work legally for a specific employer in Malta.

It identifies the employer, job position, and contract duration. Without a valid permit, foreigners are not permitted to start employment in the country.

Issuing Authority

Work permits are issued by Identità (formerly the Identity Malta Agency) under the Ministry for Home Affairs and National Security.

Validity

Work permits are usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as employment continues.

Types of Work Permits in Malta

Permit Type	Purpose	Validity	Ideal For
Single Work Permit	For non-EU workers employed by Maltese companies	1 year	General workforce
EU Blue Card	For highly qualified professionals	1–2 years	IT, engineering, and healthcare specialists
Key Employee Initiative (KEI)	Fast-track process for senior positions	1–2 years	Managers and technical experts
Seasonal Work Permit	For temporary or seasonal jobs	Up to 9 months	Tourism and agriculture workers
Self-Employment Permit	For entrepreneurs starting a business	1 year	Investors and freelancers

Malta Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D Long-Stay Visa allows non-EU nationals to live and work in Malta for more than 90 days.

It is tied directly to an approved work permit or single permit application.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Malta Work Visa, applicants must:

• Have a valid job offer from a Maltese employer.
• Hold a work permit or single permit approval.
• Possess a passport valid for at least 12 months.
• Show proof of accommodation in Malta.
• Provide health insurance coverage.
• Have sufficient funds to support themselves.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.

Visa Validity

The Type D Visa is valid for up to 1 year and can be renewed with your contract or permit renewal.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed single work permit application.
• Employment contract specifying job role and salary.
• Company registration documents.
• Proof of labour market testing (if required).
• Tax and insurance registration confirmation.
• Payment receipt for government fees.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12 months).
• Two recent passport-size photos.
• Work permit or approval letter.
• Health insurance valid in Malta.
• Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or company housing).
• Bank statement or financial proof.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Visa application form and fee receipt.

Step-by-Step Process for Malta Work Visa

1. Get a Job Offer
   Secure employment with a registered Maltese company authorised to hire non-EU nationals.
2. Employer Applies for Single Work Permit
   The employer submits the Single Work Permit Application to Identità.
3. Work Permit Evaluation and Approval
   Authorities review the documents and issue the Single Permit after verifying them successfully.
4. Apply for Type D Visa
   Once the permit is approved, apply for a Work Visa at the Maltese Embassy or the VFS Global centre in your country.
5. Visa Processing
   The embassy verifies your documents and processes the visa within 15–30 working days.
6. Travel to Malta
   Upon receiving your visa, you can enter Malta and begin working legally.
7. Apply for a Residence Card
   Within 90 days of arrival, register your address and apply for a Residence Card through Identità.

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work Permit Application	30–45 working days
Visa Application	15–30 working days
Residence Card Issuance	1–2 months
Total Duration	60–90 working days

Fees and Costs

Service	Average Fee (€)	Paid By
Single Work Permit Application	280–300	Employer
Type D Visa	100	Employee
Embassy / VFS Fee	25	Employee
Residence Card	30	Employee

Additional costs may include insurance, translation, and legalisation fees for documents.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Malta

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Hospitality & Tourism	Housekeepers, Waiters, Cooks	1,200–1,800	Seasonal
Construction	Labourers, Electricians, Plumbers	1,400–2,200	Single Permit
Manufacturing	Technicians, Machine Operators	1,400–1,900	Work Permit
Healthcare	Nurses, Caregivers	1,800–3,000	Blue Card
IT & Technology	Developers, Analysts	2,500–5,000	Blue Card / KEI
Logistics	Drivers, Warehouse Staff	1,300–2,000	Work Permit
Retail & Services	Sales Assistants, Cashiers	1,200–1,700	Single Permit

Benefits of Working in Malta

• Legal employment under EU labour laws.
• Access to free healthcare and social benefits.
• Pathway to Permanent Residence and EU citizenship.
• Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone.
• Safe, friendly, and multilingual society.
• Transparent and fast visa process.
• Growing demand for international professionals.
• Competitive salaries and affordable living costs.

Official Government Resources

• Identità (Identity Malta): https://www.identita.gov.mt
• Ministry for Home Affairs: https://homeaffairs.gov.mt
• JobsPlus Malta: https://jobsplus.gov.mt
• Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs: https://foreign.gov.mt

Malta Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Malta has become a significant hub for international workers thanks to its fast-growing economy, English-speaking environment, booming tourism sector, strong iGaming and financial industries, and welcoming Mediterranean lifestyle. At the same time, Malta’s immigration system—work permits, employer sponsorship, residence applications, labour market checks and documentation procedures—can be complex without expert support.

Moving2Europe.eu delivers structured, compliant and end-to-end Malta immigration assistance for skilled workers, families and employers hiring global talent.

Complete Malta Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We manage all major Maltese immigration categories, including:

• Malta Single Work Permit (Employer-Sponsored)
• Key Employee Initiative (KEI Permit)
• EU Blue Card Malta
• Seasonal & short-term work permits
• Self-employment & business residence options
• Intra-company transfer permits
• Long-Stay National Visa
• Student, trainee & internship residence permits

We support both individuals applying independently and companies hiring international staff.

Malta Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Work Permit & Employment Residence Support

We assist with:

• Single Work Permit applications
• Key Employee Initiative fast-track routes
• EU Blue Card for highly qualified professionals
• Short-term and seasonal employment authorisations
• Renewals and long-term residence options

2. Document Preparation & Embassy/VFS Assistance

Our services include:

• Tailored document checklists
• Full compliance verification of documents
• Apostilles, legalisations & certified translations
• Online application assistance
• Embassy/VFS appointment scheduling
• Interview preparation if required

3. Arrival & Legal Procedures in Malta

We guide applicants with:

• Entry and border requirements
• Identity Malta registration
• Biometrics and residence card collection
• Health insurance and tax number setup
• Employer reporting & compliance obligations

Malta Family & Dependent Visa Services

We support families relocating to Malta with:

• Spouse residence permits
• Dependent child visas
• Family reunification applications
• Long-term dependent residence options
• Schooling advice and settlement support

We ensure your family’s transition to Malta is smooth, legal and well-coordinated.

Malta Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Malta continues to face labour shortages across several industries, including:

• Hospitality, hotels & restaurants
• Tourism & travel services
• Construction & technical trades
• Healthcare, nursing & elderly care
• Logistics, warehousing & transport
• IT, iGaming & digital services
• Manufacturing & industrial operations

We assist employers with:

• Work permit sponsorship guidance
• Eligibility and labour requirement support
• Preparation of employee permit & residence files
• High-volume recruitment and mobility programs
• Coordination with HR, compliance & legal teams
• Ensuring full compliance with Maltese immigration regulations

We help companies hire foreign workers legally and efficiently in Malta.

Executive Mobility Services for Malta

For executives and high-level professionals, we provide:

• Priority case management
• Confidential and secure document handling
• Strategic relocation planning
• Fast-track file preparation
• Close coordination with corporate HR and legal teams

Digital Malta Immigration Tracking System

Our advanced platform offers:

• Real-time case status updates
• Secure document uploads
• Step-by-step milestone tracking
• Renewal alerts & compliance notifications
• Immigration guidance and rule updates

Ideal for individual applicants and HR teams.

Why Choose Moving2Europe.eu for Malta Immigration?

• Extensive knowledge of Malta’s immigration & work permit rules
• Accurate and compliant application preparation
• Dedicated case managers for every client
• Support for workers, families and employers
• Transparent communication throughout the entire process
• Global immigration network across 170+ countries
• Strong understanding of Malta’s labour market and legal framework
• Organised, technology-driven and reliable case management

We turn Malta’s detailed immigration system into a clear, structured and secure process.

Start Your Malta Work Permit Process Today

Whether you’re applying for a job, relocating your family or recruiting foreign workers, Moving2Europe.eu ensures a smooth, compliant and professionally managed Malta immigration experience from beginning to end.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Malta work permits?

Malta offers the Single Work Permit, EU Blue Card, Seasonal Work Permit, Key Employee Initiative (KEI), and Temporary Residence for Employment. Each serves different skill levels.

2. What is the Malta Single Work Permit?

A combined work-and-residence authorisation for non-EU workers, allowing them to live and work in Malta for up to one year, renewable.

3. What documents are required for a Malta work permit?

Passport, job offer, employer application, CV, qualifications, medical insurance, police clearance, and proof of accommodation. Some require legalised or apostilled copies.

4. How long does the Malta work permit process take?

Typically 4–12 weeks, depending on Identity Malta’s workload and employer compliance.

5. Do I need a job offer to apply for a Malta work visa?

Yes, a confirmed employment contract is required for all Malta work permits.

6. What is the Key Employee Initiative (KEI)?

A fast-track scheme for highly skilled workers, offering permit approval in around five working days for eligible applicants.

7. Can I apply for a Malta work permit from abroad?

Yes, applications are submitted online with employer support, and the visa process is completed at the Malta Embassy.

8. Can Maltese employers hire foreign workers?

Yes, employers may recruit non-EU workers if they prove labour shortages and meet salary and compliance requirements.

9. What is the minimum salary for a Malta work permit?

Salary must meet Malta’s national minimum and sector-based wage standards. Skilled roles require competitive pay.

10. Can students work in Malta?

Yes, international students may work up to 20 hours per week with authorisation after three months of study.

11. What are the shortage occupations in Malta?

Hospitality, construction, caregiving, retail, IT, customer service, and warehouse operations have high labour demand.

12. Can I bring my family to Malta while working?

Yes, long-term workers can apply for family reunification once they obtain a residence permit and a stable income.

13. Do dependents have work rights in Malta?

Yes, dependents may work after receiving their own work permit or equivalent authorisation.

14. What is the Malta EU Blue Card?

A residence permit for highly qualified professionals with higher salary thresholds and recognised qualifications.

15. Can I change employers after receiving a Malta permit?

Yes, but you must apply for a new Single Work Permit with the updated employer details.

16. Do I need English or Maltese language skills for work?

Not necessarily. Malta widely uses English, and many jobs accept English-speaking workers.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Malta?

Yes, you must have private or employer-provided health insurance until enrolled in Malta’s national system.

18. What is the Malta Seasonal Work Permit?

A temporary permit for short-term roles in hospitality, tourism, and agriculture, valid for several months.

19. Can seasonal workers apply for long-term residence?

Seasonal permits do not lead to long-term stays. A standard employment contract is required for residence permits.

20. How do I register my address in Malta?

After arrival, you must register your residence with Identity Malta to receive your eResidence card.

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Malta?

Yes, after 5 years of legal stay, stable employment, and compliance with integration requirements, you may apply for long-term residency.

22. Does Malta hire non-EU workers?

Yes, Malta actively hires foreign workers due to significant labour shortages across key industries.

23. What are the most in-demand jobs in Malta?

Servers, cleaners, drivers, caregivers, construction workers, chefs, IT specialists, and casino industry staff.

24. Is it challenging to get a job in Malta?

No, especially in hospitality, customer service, retail, and construction, which constantly recruit foreign workers.

25. How long can I stay with a long-stay Malta visa?

Typically, 90 days for entry while waiting for your Single Work Permit to be issued in Malta.

26. Can I renew my Malta work permit?

Yes, renewals are possible if your employment continues and you submit the required documents before the permit expires.

27. What is the Malta eResidence Card?

A biometric card confirming your right to live and work in Malta. It is required for all legal residents.

28. Do I need biometrics for Malta?

Yes, biometrics are collected during your residence permit appointment after arrival.

29. Can you apply for my employer?

Yes, employers submit part of the application through Identity Malta’s online system.

30. Is Malta part of the Schengen Area?

Yes, Malta is a Schengen member, enabling free travel within the Schengen area for residence permit holders.

31. Can I travel through Europe with a Malta residence permit?

Yes, you can travel for up to 90 days within any 180 days in Schengen countries.

32. What if my Malta work permit is refused?

You can appeal or apply for the corrected documents. Refusals often arise from missing paperwork or employer issues.

33. Does Malta hire drivers and logistics workers?

Yes, the transport and delivery sector often hires foreign drivers due to increasing demand.

34. Is Malta good for skilled migrants?

Yes, Malta offers strong job opportunities, a safe environment, and English-speaking workplaces.

35. Would you happen to know if my documents need a Maltese translation?

Some documents require English or Maltese translations and may require legalisation or an apostille.

36. Can unskilled workers find jobs in Malta?

Yes, hospitality, cleaning, retail, and food delivery companies regularly hire unskilled labour.

37. What is the work permit processing time in Malta?

On average, 4–12 weeks, depending on job type, employer readiness, and Identity Malta’s queue.

38. Are healthcare workers needed in Malta?

Yes, caregivers, nurses, and elderly care staff are in high demand across the public and private sectors.

39. Do employers provide accommodation in Malta?

Some do, especially in hospitality, caregiving, and construction, but many workers arrange their own housing.

40. What is the labour market test in Malta?

Employers must prove the role cannot be filled by local or EU candidates before hiring a non-EU worker.

41. Can I work while my Malta permit is processing?

No, you must wait for your Single Work Permit to be approved before starting work.

42. Is there an age limit for Malta work permits?

No official age limit exists, but workers must meet job requirements and pass medical/fitness checks.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa into a work permit in Malta?

No, applications must be initiated with employer sponsorship and usually require applying from abroad.

44. Does Malta offer entry-level jobs for foreigners?

Yes, hotels, restaurants, cleaning companies, retail stores, and warehouses hire many entry-level workers.

45. Are biometrics required again after arrival?

Yes, you must provide biometric data to Identity Malta when collecting your residence card.

46. Does Malta have a digital nomad visa?

Yes, Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit for remote workers employed by foreign companies.

47. What are the highest-paying sectors in Malta?

Finance, iGaming, IT, construction supervision, engineering, and senior hospitality roles.

48. Does Moving2Europe.eu assist with Malta work permits?

Yes, we handle employer coordination, document preparation, embassy filing, and residence permit processing.

49. Can working in Malta lead to citizenship?

Yes, after long-term residency and meeting strict conditions, individuals may qualify for permanent residence or citizenship.

50. How can I start my Malta work visa application?

Send your CV to Moving2Europe.eu, select your preferred industry, and we will handle your employer sponsorship and complete the visa process.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides full support for Malta Work Visas, Work Permits, and Residence Cards.

Our team assists with job matching, employer coordination, documentation, and embassy processing, ensuring your process is legal, transparent, and stress-free.

For reliable guidance and verified employment opportunities in Malta, you can contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today, start your professional career in Europe with confidence.