How to Get a Work Visa in Malta: A Complete Guide
Malta is a popular destination for job seekers, especially with its growing industries like iGaming, finance, and technology. If you’re planning to work in Malta and are not an EU citizen, you’ll need to obtain a job visa to work legally in the country. Here’s a detailed guide on who needs a work visa in Malta and how to get one.
Who Needs a Work Visa in Malta?
EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not need a visa or work permit to live and work in Malta. They can move to Malta freely and start working, although they are required to register with Maltese authorities if they plan to stay longer than three months.
Non-EU Citizens Citizens from countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland do need a work visa (commonly referred to as a work permit) to work in Malta. This is typically referred to as the Single Permit and includes both the residence permit and the work permit in one application.
How to Apply for a Work Visa in Malta
The process of obtaining a work visa (Single Permit) in Malta involves several steps. Below is a step-by-step guide for non-EU citizens.
1. Secure a Job Offer
Before you can apply for a work visa, you need to have a valid job offer from a Maltese employer. The company offering you the job is required to sponsor your visa application. You cannot apply for a work permit on your own without first securing employment.
2. Employer Submits the Application
Once you have a job offer, your employer will submit the application for the Single Permit to Malta’s Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) on your behalf. The employer is responsible for providing information on the job role and proving that no suitable Maltese or EU citizen could fill the position (for certain sectors).
3. Gather Required Documents
Along with the job offer, you’ll need to submit the following documents:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
- Completed Single Permit application form
- A signed employment contract from the employer
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of qualifications or experience required for the job
- Health insurance coverage (if not covered by the employer)
- A clean police conduct certificate
- Depending on the type of job and your country of origin, additional documents may be required.
4. Submit the Application
The application for a Single Permit is submitted to Identity Malta, the government body responsible for processing work and residency permits. This can be done by the employer, or in some cases, you can submit it yourself after arriving in Malta on a temporary visa.
5. Wait for Approval
Once the application is submitted, you may need to wait several weeks for processing. Typically, it takes around 4 to 6 weeks for the Single Permit to be approved. During this time, you are usually not allowed to begin working unless you already hold a temporary employment permit.
6. Receive the Single Permit
After approval, you will receive the Single Permit, which allows you to live and work in Malta for the duration of your employment contract (usually one year, renewable). The permit serves as both your residency and work permit, meaning you do not need a separate visa to live in Malta.
Renewal of Work Visa in Malta
The Single Permit is typically valid for one year, after which it must be renewed. Renewal applications must be submitted at least a month before the current permit expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, requiring updated documents such as a new employment contract and health insurance.
Key Considerations for Non-EU Nationals
- Health Insurance: Non-EU nationals are required to have valid health insurance coverage, as this is one of the mandatory documents in the application process.
- Labor Market Test: For certain job roles, especially lower-skilled positions, employers need to demonstrate that no Maltese or EU national is available to fill the position before hiring a non-EU national.
- Residence: After receiving your Single Permit, you’ll need to register for a residence card in Malta, which serves as your identification and proof of legal status in the country.
Conclusion
For non-EU citizens, getting a work visa in Malta requires securing a job offer and going through the Single Permit application process with the help of an employer. While the process may seem complex, understanding the requirements and preparing the necessary documents in advance can streamline your visa application. Once you have the visa, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of working in Malta’s growing economy and vibrant cultural landscape.