Updated January 2026
Malta has introduced significant changes to its labour migration framework as part of the ongoing Malta Labour Migration Policy reforms. The policy aims to better regulate the entry of non-EU workers (Third-Country Nationals, or TCNs), safeguard worker rights, and ensure that incoming workers are adequately prepared for life and work in Malta.
1. Mandatory Pre-Departure Course (From January 2026)
Effective 5 January 2026, Malta will require all first-time applicants for a Single Permit (the combined work and residence permit) from outside the EU to complete a Pre-Departure Course before they can apply for a work permit.
The Pre-Departure Course is designed to ensure that anyone coming to work in Malta meets basic standards in skills, English language, and cultural awareness. It serves as Malta’s official way of confirming that new workers are prepared for the local workplace and can integrate successfully into the community.
Key details:
- The course is mandatory for third-country nationals seeking employment in Malta.
- It ensures applicants have basic English language skills, cultural awareness, knowledge of workers’ rights and obligations, and understanding of life and work in Malta.
- All first-time Single Permit applicants must hold a valid Pre-Departure Course Certificate to obtain a work permit.
- The programme has two main modules: Living and Working in Malta and Rights and Obligations at the Workplace. Each includes an assessment and a live interview.
- The course and assessment cost €250.
- From 1 March 2026, Identità will only accept Single Permit applications from applicants holding a valid pre-departure certificate.
2. Sector-Specific Skills Pass Requirements
In addition to the national pre-departure course, some sectors such as tourism and hospitality require applicants to complete an additional sector-specific Skills Pass. Applicants must satisfy both components where these sector requirements apply.
3. Suitability Checks and Enhanced Oversight
- Applicants must undergo a Suitability Check by Jobsplus before their permit is processed, including documentation of pre-departure completion and employer declarations of suitability.
- Employers may be checked for compliance and can be disqualified from hiring if found violating workers’ rights.
4. Longer Permit Durations and Renewal Rules
- Employers demonstrating investment in skills or hiring highly skilled workers may obtain two- to three-year permits instead of shorter ones.
- After the first year, workers can renew. Low-skilled workers may need additional structured training, while higher-skilled workers with valid contracts could receive automatic two-year extensions.
Phase 1 and Phase 2
All candidates currently not working in Malta, and thus applying for their first work permit, must carry out both phases.
Phase 1: Online Examination
All candidates complete Phase 1, which includes the online exams for each part. Each exam is based only on the topics taught in that part and takes around 30 minutes.
Phase 2: Physical Interview
Candidates attend a short in-person interview at their closest VFS centre, booked on the portal after successful completion of Phase 1. The interview confirms understanding of the topics and checks simple communication skills.
Living and Integrating in Malta — Topics 1 to 10
Delivered through Coursera with videos, reading sections and optional mock tests. Topics covered:
- Introduction to Malta
- Legal and Administrative Essentials
- Social Norms and Daily Life in Malta
- Accommodation and Cost of Living in Malta
- Language and Communication in Malta
- Health and Education in Malta
- Transport and Waste Management in Malta
- Inclusion, Integration and Community Life
- Documentation Needed When Moving to Malta
- Pre-Departure Checklist
Rights, Obligations and Workplace Standards — Topics 11 to 15
- Workplace Culture and Expectations
- Avoiding Exploitation and Knowing Your Rights
- Basic Hygiene in Malta
- Basic Work Ethics
- Labour Law and Workers’ Rights in Malta
Certification
After completing the required online exams and any interview, candidates receive their digital certificates through Hyland, the official document and credential management system used by Skills Pass.
Visio Consultancy supports businesses in understanding and implementing the new pre-departure course requirements for Third Country Nationals. With combined Legal and HR expertise, we help you manage obligations efficiently, avoid delays, and stay compliant. Contact us to ensure your processes are handled correctly from the start.
