Malta Introduces the Second Phase of Its Labour Migration Policy: What Foreign Workers Need to Know

Jul 11
2 min read

Malta continues to strengthen its immigration and employment system with the implementation of the second phase of its Labour Migration Policy. The new measures are designed to create a more transparent recruitment process, protect workers' rights, and ensure that employers first consider local and EU candidates before hiring workers from outside the European Union.

Important Note: If you're planning to work in Malta, these updates are crucial to understand before submitting your work permit application.

📋 Key Policy Updates

1. Employers Must Advertise Vacancies First

One of the most significant changes requires employers wishing to hire third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) to first advertise the job vacancy on the Jobsplus portal and the EURES network. This ensures Maltese and EU job seekers have a fair opportunity to apply before employers recruit overseas.

Advertisement Requirements:

Position Type	Advertisement Period
General Positions	3 weeks (within the 2 months prior to application)
Highly Skilled Categories (KEI, SEI, and EU Blue Card)	2 weeks

2. New Rules for Visa-Exempt Nationals

Malta has introduced clearer, strict procedures for applicants originating from visa-exempt countries based on when they submit their Single Permit application.

Processing Guidelines based on Entry Date:

Submission Timeline	Processing Location & Status
Within 60 days of entering the Schengen Area	Applicant can remain in Malta while the application is processed.
Between 61 and 90 days of entering	Applicant must leave the Schengen Area and wait abroad for an Approval in Principle (AIP) letter before returning.

3. Pre-Departure Course Becomes a Key Requirement

As part of ongoing integration reforms, Malta has introduced a mandatory Pre-Departure Course for first-time non-EU applicants applying for a Single Work Permit.

Effective Date: 1 March 2026
Format: Online
Curriculum Focus: Maltese workplace culture, employment rights, and basic social integration.
Requirement: Applicants must present the course completion certificate during the work permit process.

🎯 Why These Changes Matter

The Maltese government has outlined five primary goals behind these labour migration reforms:

Improve transparency in the recruitment process.
Protect the rights of foreign workers.
Reduce labour market abuse.
Ensure genuine need by requiring employers to prove they need overseas workers before recruiting internationally.
Promote better integration of foreign employees into Maltese society.

💡 Final Thoughts

Malta remains an attractive destination for both skilled and semi-skilled foreign workers. However, applicants should be aware that the work permit process is becoming significantly more structured. Completing all required steps—including meeting advertisement timelines and passing the Pre-Departure Course—will help ensure a much smoother application process.

Anyone planning to work in Malta in 2026 should stay updated with the latest immigration rules and prepare the necessary documents well in advance to avoid unexpected delays.