How to apply for a work permit to Malta?

Malta, which is part of the European union has a high employment rate in its various industries which is an attractive factor for overseas jobseekers to look for a job here. People from outside the EU or EEA have to apply for a work permit in order to work here.

Overseas jobseekers who wish to work here must have their work permits sponsored by their employers as dictated by immigration laws in their country. Employees from non-EU countries must first get a visa to enter Malta and then apply for a work permit once they are in the country.

Employment licenses must be applied for by the employer and not by the jobseeker.

Work permit for non-EU citizens

Individuals form non-EU nations are eligible for a Single Permit Application which is processed by their employer and gives them the right to work and live in Malta. The application for a Single Permit must include the following documents:

• Copy of a valid employment contract
• Private medical insurance policy that provides coverage for 12 months
• Covering letter from the prospective employer
• Position description signed by the employer
• A signed CV showing work experience of at least three years

 A single permit is also known as the e-residence card grants individuals the right to live and work in Malta, however the applicant must have a valid visa to stay in Malta.

The single permit is usually processed in two to three months. The permit is valid for one year. The residence card is linked to the employer whose work contract was included in the application. The cad will become invalid if the individual ceases to work with that particular employer.

The employer can submit the application on behalf of the employee. If the application is successful an authorization letter is issued to the employer to allow the applicant to come to Malta and work there. At this stage the applicants can apply for a visa to enter Malta based on the letter and complete the single permit process once they are in Malta.

Renewal of work permit: Single permits can be renewed by submitting an application for renewal, which must be accompanied by documentation certifying that income tax and national insurance contributions have been duly paid for the preceding 12 months.

Key Employment Initiative (KEI)

The KEI is a relatively new scheme launched by the government of Malta that provided a fast-track work permit application service to non-EU citizens with highly specialized skills who wish to work in Malta.

Under this scheme prospective employees can get their single permits within five working days after they submit their application. This option is open for those qualified for managerial or highly-technical roles which require relevant qualifications or work experience.

Applicants for this scheme must meet the following criteria:

• They must have an annual gross salary of at least 30,000 pounds
• Certified copies that prove they have the relevant qualifications and the necessary work experience of at least a three-year period
• Declaration by the employer that they have the necessary qualifications to perform the job

The KEI scheme is also extended to innovators who are keen to initiate start-up projects in Malta. Approved permits will be valid for one year which can then be renewed for a maximum of three years.

EU Blue card

Individuals from non-EU countries who have the EU Blue Card can apply for a work permit which will be valid for one year and can be renewed later. EU Blue Card holders will be given special consideration provided they are highly-qualified and are being hired for a job that whose annual gross salary is 1.5 times higher than the normal wages in Malta. 

Employment license through JobsPlus

Jobsplus is the government body responsible for issuing employment licenses that are usually valid for one year from the issue date. Applications for employment licenses must be submitted by the prospective employer, and are subject to considerations of the labor market.

Multiple ways to get a work permit for Malta

There are multiple ways to get a work permit if you are seeking an overseas job in Malta.