Malta Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Who Needs a Work Permit in Malta?

In Malta, the requirement for a work permit depends on the employee's nationality:

EU/EEA and Swiss nationals can live and work in Malta without a work permit for up to 90 days. For employment exceeding this period, they must register for a residence permit.

Non-EU/EEA nationals must obtain a work permit, commonly referred to as an employment license, to legally work in Malta. These permits are typically employer- and position-specific.

Types of Work Visas in Malta

Malta offers several work visa options tailored to different employment needs.

Single Permit: Standard Employment

The Single Permit is Malta’s primary route for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to live and work in the country under one unified authorization. It is employer-sponsored, requiring a valid job offer from a Maltese employer and supporting documents such as an employment contract and labor market approval.

This permit simplifies the process by combining both residence and work authorization into a single application, streamlining compliance for businesses and employees alike.

💡 Best work permit option if: Your company intends to hire a non-EU national under a direct Maltese employment contract for long-term roles, ensuring straightforward legal residence and employment authorization.

EU Blue Card: Highly Skilled Employment

Malta issues the EU Blue Card for highly skilled third-country nationals, requiring proof of higher education or specialized professional qualifications, alongside a job offer that meets the minimum salary threshold (set above Malta’s average wage).

This pathway supports Malta’s efforts to attract global expertise in priority industries such as ICT, finance, and healthcare. It provides additional benefits, including easier family reunification and greater mobility across EU member states.

💡 Best work permit option if: Your business needs to attract highly skilled professionals who can fill specialized roles in Malta, with the added advantage of long-term retention and EU-wide career opportunities.

Key Employee Initiative (KEI): Fast-Track for Specialists

The Key Employee Initiative (KEI) is a special program providing expedited processing (typically within five working days) for highly skilled third-country nationals. It applies to individuals in managerial, highly technical, or specialized roles where local expertise may be scarce.

Eligibility requires a valid employment contract, proof of qualifications, and a minimum annual salary threshold (currently €30,000 or above). The KEI is particularly attractive for businesses that need urgent onboarding of specialized staff.

💡 Best work permit option if: Your company urgently requires a highly skilled foreign national in a managerial or technical position, benefiting from Malta’s fast-tracked approval process.

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Requirements for a Work Permit in Malta

To obtain a work permit in Malta, employers and prospective employees must meet specific criteria:

 
• Valid Job Offer: The employee must have a confirmed offer from a Maltese employer.
• Qualifications and Experience: Relevant qualifications or work experience pertinent to the job position are necessary.
• Clean Criminal Record: A police conduct certificate from the applicant's country of residence is required.
• Health Insurance: Proof of adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of stay in Malta is mandatory.
• Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that the applicant can financially support themselves during their stay.
• Employment License: The employer must obtain an employment license on behalf of the employee.
• Health Screening: Certain job categories may require health screening approval as part of the work permit application.

Malta Work Permit Application Process

 
• Secure a Job Offer – The prospective employee must obtain a job offer from a Maltese employer.
• Employer Applies for Employment License – The employer submits an application to Jobsplus with required documentation.
• Collect Required Documents – The employee gathers a valid passport, proof of qualifications, police clearance, and insurance.
• Submit Single Permit Application – Submit the application to Identity Malta along with fees and supporting documents.
• Await Processing – Processing takes a few weeks, and applicants receive notifications via email or text.
• Receive Work Permit – Upon approval, the employee can reside and work in Malta.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Malta

In Malta, visa sponsorship involves the employer taking responsibility for the foreign employee's application process. The employer must demonstrate that the position could not be filled by a Maltese or EU/EEA national and provide necessary documentation to support the employment license application. This includes proof of the company's legitimacy, financial stability, and the employee's qualifications.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Malta

The fees associated with work permits and visas in Malta are as follows:

Not Sure What to Pay in Malta? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Malta

In Malta, the processing time for work visas and permits depends on the route chosen. Employers who understand these timelines can better manage onboarding expectations and avoid operational delays.

Single Permit: Standard Employment Route

The Single Permit is Malta’s most common authorization, combining residence and work rights in one. For employers, this is the standard route when hiring non-EU nationals on a long-term basis. Processing typically takes 2–3 months, which means recruitment teams should plan well ahead of a candidate’s intended start date. Any incomplete paperwork or labor market compliance checks can extend the timeline.

Key Employee Initiative (KEI): Fast Track for Specialists

For urgent business needs, Malta’s Key Employee Initiative (KEI) offers a 5 working day turnaround. This scheme is available to highly skilled third-country nationals in managerial, technical, or specialist roles, provided the job meets the minimum €30,000 annual salary threshold.

EU Blue Card: High-Skill Retention Strategy

The EU Blue Card provides employers with a way to attract and retain top-tier professionals. While processing can take several weeks up to 80 days, it allows access to highly skilled talent pools and makes Malta competitive in industries like ICT, finance, and healthcare.

Short-Stay / National D Visa: Entry Authorizations

When a foreign employee needs to enter Malta while awaiting full permit approval, the National D Visa can be issued in 5–15 working days. This is an entry authorization only, not a substitute for a full residence/work permit.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Malta

Work permits in Malta are generally valid for one year. To continue employment beyond this period, employees must apply for a renewal before the current permit expires. The renewal application should include proof of continued employment, payment of taxes, and compliance with all initial requirements. Submitting renewal applications well in advance is advisable to avoid legal interruptions in employment.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Malta

Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit for digital nomads, enabling non-EU nationals to legally reside in Malta while working remotely. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to work independently of location using telecommunications technologies.

 
• Proof of Remote Work – Evidence that the applicant works for an employer registered abroad, conducts business activities abroad, or provides freelance services to foreign clients.
• Minimum Income Threshold – Applicants must have a minimum gross annual income of €42,000.
• Health Insurance – Valid health insurance covering risks in Malta is mandatory.
• Accommodation – Proof of accommodation in Malta, such as a rental agreement or property ownership.
• Clean Criminal Record – A police conduct certificate from the applicant’s country of residence is required.

The application process involves submitting documents to the Residency Malta Agency, paying a €300 application fee, and awaiting processing, which typically takes 30 days. The permit is valid for one year and renewable if eligibility criteria continue to be met.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Malta

Employers in Malta may face several challenges when hiring international talent. Below are some common issues and tips for navigating them effectively:

 
• Skills Shortages – Employers may struggle to find qualified candidates locally. Investing in employee development and training programs can help address gaps.
• High Salary Expectations – Foreign talent may demand higher salaries, impacting budgets. Offering competitive compensation packages can attract skilled workers.
• Talent Retention – Employers may face difficulties retaining talent due to high turnover rates. Providing career development opportunities and promoting workplace culture can improve retention.
• Compliance Risks – Navigating local employment laws can be challenging. Employers should work closely with legal advisors or Employer of Record (EOR) solutions to ensure compliance.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.