Malta Work Permit: Application Procedure

Types of Malta Work Permits

Malta has different work permits for various types of foreign workers. Each permit is designed for specific needs and qualifications. Applicants need to understand the different permits available if they want to move to Malta for work.

Single Permit

The Single Permit is a work and residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to live and work in Malta for a long time. It combines a work visa and a residence permit into one application, making the process easier. This permit is for people who have a job with a Maltese employer and want to stay in Malta for more than 90 days. To get the Single Permit, applicants must meet these requirements:

The applicant must have a valid job offer from a Maltese employer. The employer must also prove that no suitable candidate from the local labor market or EU nationals was available for the position.
The work contract should clearly define the role, salary, and working conditions, aligning with the labor standards of Malta.
Applicants must provide evidence of adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Malta.
A police clearance certificate is required to confirm that the applicant has no serious criminal history.
Applicants must demonstrate they have secured accommodation in Malta.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a work permit for skilled non-EU nationals who want to work in Malta. It lets professionals with special qualifications live and work in Malta. The permit also allows them to work in other EU countries under certain conditions. To qualify for the EU Blue Card, applicants must meet several criteria:

The applicant must possess higher education qualifications, such as a university degree or equivalent, or demonstrate substantial professional experience in a specialized field.
The applicant must secure a job offer from a Maltese employer in a role that requires a high level of qualification. The position must meet the standards of the Maltese labor market, and the employer must prove that no EU national or local candidate is suitable for the job.
The applicant’s proposed salary must be at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Malta.
Proof of adequate health insurance coverage is required to ensure that the applicant has access to healthcare while living and working in Malta.
A formal work contract outlining the terms of employment, including job title, responsibilities, salary, and benefits, is essential.

Key Employee Initiative

The Key Employee Initiative is a work permit program for highly skilled people in managerial, technical, or specialized jobs. Malta created this program to attract top talent in important fields like technology, engineering, finance, and medicine. It helps fill skill gaps in these industries by offering faster processing and long-term opportunities for foreign professionals.

Required Documents for Application

When applying for a Malta work permit, applicants must submit a few important documents to show they are eligible. These documents help the Maltese authorities process the application correctly. Here is a list of the documents needed for all work permit applications:

Valid Passport

A valid passport is needed as the main form of ID. The passport must have at least two blank pages for the visa and entry stamp. It should be valid for at least three months after the planned stay in Malta. The passport is used to verify the applicant’s identity and nationality.

Work Visa Application Form

The work visa application form must be filled out correctly and signed by the applicant. The form asks for important details like personal information, work history, and the job the applicant will do in Malta. All the information must be accurate and current, as mistakes can delay the application.

Proof of Employment

Proof of employment is an important requirement for a work permit. Applicants must provide a signed work contract or an offer letter from a Maltese employer. The document should include details like the job title, salary, duties, and contract length. It should also have the employer’s information and registration number. This document shows that the applicant has a job in Malta and meets the requirements for the work permit.

Health Insurance

Applicants must show proof of health insurance for the whole time they stay in Malta. The insurance should cover things like emergency medical care and repatriation, as required by Maltese authorities. This ensures the applicant can get healthcare while in Malta. If their home country insurance is not accepted, they may need to get private health insurance.

Application Process

The Malta work permit application process is a clear procedure that involves both the employer and the applicant. They must work together to submit and review all required documents for approval.

Employer’s Role in the Process (Employment License Application)

The first step in the process is for the employer to apply. To hire a non-EU national, the employer must get an employment license from the Maltese authorities. This license proves that the job cannot be filled by a local or EU candidate, as required by Maltese law. The employer must provide details about the job, including the role, salary, and qualifications needed.

The employer must also submit documents to support the application, like proof of the company’s registration, the job description, and the applicant’s contract. Once the employment license is approved, the employer will inform the applicant to move on to the next step of the process.

Applicant’s Role (Visa Application at Maltese Consulate/Embassy)

Once the employer gets the employment license, the applicant can apply for a work visa at the nearest Maltese consulate or embassy in their home country. The applicant must fill out a work visa application form with personal details, job information, and required documents. These documents often include a valid passport, proof of employment, proof of accommodation, and health insurance.

The visa application form must be submitted with all required documents. The applicant should make sure all details are correct and current to avoid delays. If the applicant is already in Malta, they may be able to apply through the local immigration authorities.

Document Submission and Verification

Once the application form and documents are submitted, the Maltese authorities will start the verification process. This includes checking the applicant’s qualifications, confirming the employment contract is valid, and ensuring the employer follows the employment license rules. The authorities may also review the applicant’s background, including their criminal record and medical history.

During this stage, the authorities may ask for more documents or details if needed. The applicant should be ready to provide extra information quickly to avoid delays. The verification process usually takes a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the authorities.

Waiting Period and Processing Times

After submitting and verifying the documents, the final stage is waiting for the work permit to be processed. The processing time can vary depending on the type of work permit. On average, it takes 2 to 3 months for the application to be processed and approved. However, some permits, like the Key Employee Initiative, may be processed faster, usually within 5 days.

During this time, the applicant should remain patient and avoid making any travel plans until they receive confirmation of their permit approval. Once the work permit is approved, the applicant will be notified and can begin their relocation to Malta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Family Join me if I Get a Malta Work Permit?

Yes, family reunification is possible for the spouse and dependent children of work permit holders, depending on the visa type.

Can I Extend my Malta Work Permit?

Yes, most work permits can be extended, typically for up to 1 year, with the option for renewal.

Do I Need Health Insurance to Apply for a Work Permit in Malta?

Yes, proof of health insurance valid for your stay in Malta is required when applying for a work permit.

Conclusion

To have a successful application, make sure to prepare all documents carefully and submit them on time. Check things like passport validity, proof of employment, and health insurance coverage to avoid delays. It’s also important to know the specific requirements for the type of work permit you’re applying for. By following the rules and making sure all documents are complete and correct, applicants can increase their chances of a successful and quick application.