Malta Work Permit 2026: Complete Guide for EU & Non-EU Workers
Everything you need to know about working legally in Malta. From EU freedom of movement to Third Country National (TCN) permits, employment licenses, and your rights as an employee.
1. Overview: Working in Malta
Malta is a popular destination for international workers due to its:
- Strategic location in the Mediterranean
- English-speaking environment (official language alongside Maltese)
- Growing economy with strong iGaming, fintech, and tourism sectors
- Competitive tax schemes for expats (HQP, QRTE)
- EU membership since 2004
đź’ˇ Key Point: Your right to work in Malta depends on your nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals have automatic rights, while non-EU nationals need an employment license (work permit).
2. EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals
Under the Freedom of Movement principle, citizens of EU member states, EEA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), and Switzerland can work in Malta without restrictions.
What You Can Do
- • Work without a permit
- • Start employment immediately
- • Be self-employed
- • Access same rights as Maltese workers
What You Need
- • Valid EU passport or ID card
- • Residence card if staying > 3 months
- • Social Security Number for contributions
- • Tax number from IRD
Residence Documentation for EU Citizens
While you don't need a work permit, if you plan to stay in Malta for more than 3 months, you should register with IdentitĂ (Identity Malta) for a residence document.
| Stay Duration | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Up to 3 months | Valid passport or national ID only |
| More than 3 months | Register for EU Residence Certificate |
| After 5 years | Eligible for Permanent Residence |
3. Non-EU (Third Country) Nationals
Third Country Nationals (TCNs) from non-EU countries need an employment license(commonly called a work permit) before they can legally work in Malta.
⚠️ Important: The employer must apply for the employment license on behalf of the employee. You cannot apply for a work permit yourself.
Types of Employment Licenses
| Type | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Standard License | General employment for most sectors | 1 year (renewable) |
| Key Employee | Senior/specialized positions | Up to 3 years |
| Intra-Company Transfer | Transfer from overseas branch | Up to 3 years |
| Single Permit | Combined residence and work | 1 year (renewable) |
4. Employment License Process
Step-by-Step Application
Employer Registers with Jobsplus
Company must have an active Jobsplus account
Labour Market Test (if required)
Employer must prove no suitable EU workers available (some exemptions apply)
Submit Application
Online application via Jobsplus with all required documents
Processing & Approval
Typically 4-8 weeks depending on sector
Employee Arrives & Registers
Apply for residence permit, SSN, and tax number
Required Documents
- Employee: Valid passport, CV, qualifications, police clearance
- Employer: Employment contract, job description, company registration
- Both: Completed application forms, processing fee
5. Jobsplus Registration
Jobsplus is Malta's public employment service and the main agency for:
Employment Licenses
For non-EU workers
Job Matching
Connecting employers & jobseekers
Engagement Forms
Mandatory employment registration
đź’ˇ For Employers: All employment in Malta must be registered through Jobsplus using the Engagement Form. This triggers automatic SSN issuance for eligible workers.
6. Employee Rights in Malta
All employees in Malta, regardless of nationality, are entitled to:
| Right | Details (2026) |
|---|---|
| Minimum Wage | €213.54/week (€928.70/month) |
| COLA | €10.36/week Cost of Living Adjustment |
| Annual Leave | Minimum 192 hours (24 8-hour days) |
| Public Holidays | 14 national public holidays |
| Working Hours | Max 48 hours/week (including overtime) |
| Overtime Pay | 1.5x normal rate (2x on Sundays/holidays) |
| Maternity Leave | 18 weeks paid leave |
| Sick Leave | Statutory sick pay after 3 waiting days |
7. Key Government Agencies
Calculate Your Malta Salary
Planning to work in Malta? Use our salary calculator to understand your net salary, tax obligations, and social security contributions.
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