Moving to Malta for Work: What International Candidates Need to Know
Malta attracts workers from across the world, and many international candidates are
considering a move to work here. Before you apply, it helps to understand the work permit
process, the fees involved, the rules around job changes, and the everyday costs of living
and getting around.
This guide covers the essentials. Rules and fees can change, so always confirm the latest
details with the official sources listed at the end.
Who Needs a Work Permit?
Candidates from outside the European Union generally need a work permit, usually issued
as a single permit that combines work and residence. Applications are handled by Identità,
Malta's identity and permits authority.
Some groups are exempt, including certain healthcare and elderly care roles, student
workers on accredited placements, and some people recommended by authorities such as
Malta Enterprise. Check your situation with Identità before applying.
Work Permit Fees
According to the Identità fact sheet, the current fee for a first-time single permit is €600.
This fee applies to applications from outside the country.
Fees can change, and changes are being discussed in the Budget 2027 process. Reports of
higher fees have not yet been confirmed in official documents, so check the latest figures
on identita.gov.mt before budgeting.Important Rules to Know
Apply from the right status. Applications from people in Malta on non-work visas, such as
tourist visas, are not accepted for single permits. Apply from outside Malta, or check the
rules for your specific situation.
Advertised vacancies. Employers must advertise vacancies as required. Failure to comply
can lead to suspension of permit processing, so confirm your employer has met its
obligations.
Grace period after job loss. If your employment ends, a single permit holder has a 30-day
grace period to remain in Malta and look for new work.
Visa waiver countries. Candidates from visa-waiver countries who apply within 60 days of
entering the Schengen Area can remain in Malta while their application is processed.
Stricter checks. Authorities check that your employment conditions, such as wages,
match what was agreed in your permit application.
Getting Around Malta
Malta is small, but traffic is a real issue, and many workers consider commuting when
deciding where to live and work.
Public bus fares and any changes to free travel should be checked on the official
operator's website before you plan your budget. Some reports have also referred to a
possible driving charge for certain non-long-term residents from 2027. These measures are
reported but not yet confirmed in official documents, so do not rely on them until they are.
If you plan to drive, check the current licence requirements with Transport Malta before
you arrive.
Living Costs and Planning
Before relocating, consider:
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Housing and rent in your chosen area
Transport costs, including public transport or car use-
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Healthcare registration and insurance
Any childcare costs for families
Banking and tax registration
A realistic budget that includes these costs will help you make a confident decision.
Checklist Before You Apply
Confirm you need a work permit and whether an exemption applies
Check the current fee on identita.gov.mt
Make sure your employer has advertised the role as required
Plan your transport and housing costs
Keep your employment and contract documents ready
Official Information Sources
- Identità: identita.gov.mt, for work permits, residence and fees
- Jobsplus: jobsplus.gov.mt, for employment services and the Labour Migration Policy
- Transport Malta: transport.gov.mt, for driving licence information
- Ministry for Finance: finance.gov.mt/budget27/, for official Budget 2027 documents
How Echelon Can Help
At Echelon, we recruit directly for employers across Malta and Europe, and we understand
the process of hiring international talent. If you are a candidate considering a move, we
can help you understand what is involved.