Working in Malta: Permits and Eligibility
Foreign nationals intending to work in Malta must navigate a specific set of administrative requirements governed by Identità (formerly Identity Malta). The type of authorization required depends primarily on your citizenship and the nature of your professional role. As of 2026, Malta has implemented stricter suitability checks and updated fee structures to streamline its labor market while ensuring compliance.
EU/EEA and Swiss Nationals
Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland benefit from the principle of free movement. They do not require a traditional work permit to seek or take up employment in Malta. However, if they intend to reside in the country for more than three months, they must apply for a Registration Certificate (Residence Document) to formalize their stay.
The Single Permit System for Third-Country Nationals
Third-Country Nationals (TCNs)—individuals who are not citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland—generally require a Single Permit to work and reside in Malta. This document combines both work authorization and residency into one card. The application is typically employer-led, meaning the Maltese company must initiate the process through the Identità Online Portal.
Eligibility and Labor Market Testing
For most standard positions, a labor market test is conducted by Jobsplus. The employer must demonstrate that they attempted to fill the vacancy with a Maltese or EU national before offering the position to a TCN. Key requirements include:
- A valid employment contract specifying salary and job description.
- Private health insurance with a minimum coverage of 100,000 EUR ($105,000 USD, Jan 2026).
- Proof of suitable accommodation in Malta.
- Verification of professional qualifications via MQRIC if applicable.
Specialized Work Schemes and Fast-Track Options
Malta offers specialized initiatives for highly skilled workers to bypass lengthy labor market tests and benefit from faster processing times.
Key Employee Initiative (KEI)
The KEI is designed for highly specialized TCNs in managerial or highly technical roles. Applications are typically processed within 5 working days. Eligibility includes:
- An annual gross salary of at least 45,000 EUR ($47,250 USD, Jan 2026).
- Relevant qualifications or three years of verified work experience.
- Positions categorized under ISCO Groups 1, 2, or 3.
Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI)
The SEI serves as an alternative for skilled workers who do not meet the KEI salary threshold but hold relevant technical skills. Processing takes approximately 15 working days. Eligibility includes:
- An annual gross salary of at least 30,000 EUR ($31,500 USD, Jan 2026).
- Relevant academic degree (MQF Level 6) or lower qualification with three years of experience.
EU Blue Card
This is an EU-wide residence permit for highly qualified workers. In Malta, the applicant must earn a salary that is at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary. For 2026, this threshold remains highly competitive compared to the standard Single Permit.
Fees and 2026 Policy Updates
Significant changes to the fee structure and application requirements took effect between late 2025 and 2026 to encourage long-term employee retention.
Administrative Fees
Fees are subject to change, but currently stand as follows:
- First-time Single Permit / Change of Employer: 600 EUR ($630 USD, Jan 2026).
- Permit Renewal (no changes): 150 EUR ($157.50 USD, Jan 2026).
- Change of Job Designation: 300 EUR ($315 USD, Jan 2026).
- Mandatory Pre-Departure Course (New for 2026): 250 EUR ($262.50 USD, Jan 2026).
Important: From 2026, many TCN applicants are required to complete a mandatory pre-departure course and undergo a suitability check before arriving in Malta. These measures are designed to ensure applicants are well-informed about Maltese labor laws and social norms.
Renewal and Validity
Initial permits are usually valid for one year. Starting in 2026, workers who hold a two-year employment contract and have successfully completed their first year of residence may be eligible for a renewal permit valid for up to two years, reducing the administrative burden on both employees and employers.