Visa Requirements:

• Click here to see the full list of countries whose nationals require a visa for travel into Malta and for those who do not. NOTE: The EU has announced that all citizens of non-EU/EEA countries who currently do not need a visa for entry into Malta, will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation by the end of 2026.

If your nationality permits visa-free entry into Malta:

• You can stay for up to 90 days (within a 180-day period). During this time, you can​ network with employers to secure a long-term job offer that could lead to a work permit.

If your nationality requires a visa to enter Malta, you will need a Schengen visa before you travel.​ In most cases, this visa will then allow you to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Click here to see a list of countries which require a Schengen visa.​

• Click here to see how and where to apply for the visa.

Limitations:

• You cannot legally work without a permit and employers are unlikely to sponsor unskilled workers for short-term or seasonal roles due to administrative workload and costs (to both employee and employer).

Action:

• Use platforms like Jobsplus Malta or Indeed Malta to find openings. Visit Malta during peak tourist seasons (summer or Christmas) to network in person.

Requirements:

• You need a job offer from a Maltese employer willing to sponsor a Single Permit (combines work and residence). This is quite rare for unskilled roles but more likely in:

  • IT, Finance, Legal, iGaming and Medical sectors.

  • While more limited, potential openings exist within hospitality, tourism, manufacturing, logistics and construction. A Skills Pass is required for jobs within hospitality and tourism.

  • Highly skilled workers may be eligible to apply for an EU Blue Card. The EU Blue Card is issued to highly skilled workers who will work in a qualified position and earn a salary which is at least 1.5 times higher than the average gross annual salary in Malta. This scheme is recognised across EU countries (except Denmark and Ireland) but entails a high bar to meet eligibility. Applicants must present a higher education qualification such as a University Degree certificate.

  • Highly skilled workers who fall below the criteria for the EU Blue Card, may find that they are instead eligible for Malta's Key Employee Initiative (KEI). A University Degree is not necessarily required and instead (depending on employer's requirements), certified copies of the relevant qualifications, warrants or proof of work experience will suffice. This route benefits from a fast-tracked application - typically being processed within 5 working days. The salary must be at least €35,000 per year (as of 2025) and the job position must be managerial or highly technical in nature. Applications cost €300 (as of 2025).

  • The Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) is a streamlined work and residence permit pathway introduced by Malta in 2024. It targets highly skilled third-country nationals (non-EU) who may not meet the stricter criteria of the Key Employee Initiative (KEI) but possess specialised qualifications or experience relevant to their employment in Malta. The salary threshold is lower at €25,000 per year (as of 2025). Qualification requirements are also a little more flexible.

  • Semi-skilled workers will typically apply under the Single Permit route. This is the most common route and requires no universal minimum qualification or salary requirement.

  • Unskilled workers can technically try the route of the Single Permit but the chance of success is lower because employers will unlikely sponsor the application because it will almost certainly fail the Labour Market Test.

Process (for Single Permit):

• New pre-departure rules were introduced in January 2026. The steps below still apply but before these steps, a TCN wanting to apply for a Single Permit in order to work and live in Malta must now acquire a Pre-Departure Certificate. This involves a mandatory course and online interview. Full details here.

• The employer applies through Identity Malta and Jobsplus, proving no suitable Maltese/EU candidate is available.

• You need a valid passport, health insurance and a clean criminal record.

• Proof of accommodation:

  • Registered Lease Agreement:

    • Must be for a minimum of 6 to 12 months (depending on permit type) and registered with the Housing Authority.

  • Housing Authority Approval Letter:

    • A confirmation of successful registration must be submitted with the residency application.

  • Lease Agreement Professional Attestation Form:

    • This is mandatory for all TCNs (regardless of pathway) submitting a new lease or changing their address.

    • It must be:

      • Signed by the landlord and the tenant.

      • Attested and stamped by a Lawyer, Notary, or Legal Procurator to verify all signatures.

  • Landlord Obligations:

    • Registration & Photo Inventory:

      • Landlords must register the lease and a comprehensive photo inventory within 30 days of the lease commencement.

    • Identity Verification:

      • Landlords must provide a copy of their ID card to the legal professional for the attestation process.

    • Fees:

      • A standard €10 registration fee applies. Failure to register within 30 days results in an automatic €120 late fee and potential fines from €2,500 to €10,000.

  • Permit-Specific Notes:

    • Digital Nomad Permit:

      • While a hotel reservation is often accepted for the initial application, a registered long-term lease and the Attestation Form are required once you finalise your residency in Malta.

    • MPRP, GRP & Investment Routes:

      • These routes require the highest level of verification. The Professional Attestation Form serves as the required verification layer for Identità to confirm the lease is genuine.

    • Renewals:

      • If you are renewing your residency at the same registered address, you typically do not need a new Attestation Form.

• Processing of Single Permit applications typically takes 1-3 months and permits are typically valid for 1 year (renewable). Note that application processing times can take longer during busy periods.

Challenges:

• Employers must justify hiring a non-EU worker, which is difficult for low-skill jobs. Unskilled workers will likely not attract sponsorship.

Action:

• Look at websites like Konnect Malta, Jobs In Malta and Indeed for job opportunities.

• Contact companies directly as this can help bypass all the applications they receive via agencies and job portals. Ensure your CV is both professional and up to date. Remember to also include all your achievements and relevant experience.

If work permits are unattainable:

• Consider other routes to legally stay in Malta:

  1. Family Member:

     • Rules and conditions apply. Read more here.

  2. Exemption Under Legal Legislation:​

     • Rules and conditions apply. Read more here.​

  3. Nomad Residence Permit:

     • An applicant must have a minimum gross yearly income of €42,000 as of 1st April 2024. Numerous terms and conditions apply. Read more here.

  4. MPRP (Malta Permanent Residence Programme):

     • Let's just say that substantial amounts of money are needed! Read more here.

  5. GRP (Global Residence Programme):

     • Designed for non-EU nationals seeking a special tax status in Malta! Read more here.

  6. Malta Retirement Programme (MRP):​

     • Must be at least 55 years old. Read more here.​

  7. Study-Based Stay:

     • Enrol in a course (e.g., English language school, vocational training) to obtain a student visa. Costs range from €2,000 - €5,000 for short courses.

     • Allows part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) after 3 months, potentially in unskilled roles like retail or hospitality.

     • Check schools like EC Malta or Maltalingua.

     • More information here.

Temporary:​

• Partner of a Maltese citizen.​

• Medical purposes.

Some expats attempt informal work (e.g., cash-in-hand jobs in bars or construction) during the 90-day visa-free period:

• This is illegal without a work permit and risks fines, deportation or future entry bans.

• Employers also face penalties for hiring undocumented workers.

• Avoid this route to protect your legal status and future prospects.

Research the Job Market:

• Use Jobsplus Malta (government job portal), LinkedIn, or expat groups like Malta Expat Forum on Facebook to identify openings.

Build a CV:

• Emphasize any transferable skills (e.g., teamwork, customer service, physical stamina) even if from informal experience.

• Include a cover letter tailored to Malta’s market, expressing willingness to relocate.

Network:

• Join expat communities on Facebook to learn about job leads.

• Visit Malta on a short trip to meet potential employers in person.

Secure Finances:

• Budget for initial costs: €3,000 - €4,000 for flights, accommodation (first month’s rent + deposit) and living expenses.

• Unskilled wages are low (€6 - €7 per hour), so plan for basic living (€1,200 - €1,400 per month including rent).

Housing:​

• Use Malta Park or Quicklets for listings. Secure housing before applying for residency.

Healthcare:

• Obtain private health insurance (€100 - €300 per year) for visa/residency applications, as unskilled workers may not immediately qualify for public healthcare.

• Register with a GP upon arrival (€10 - €20 per visit).

Legal Compliance:

• Apply for an e-Residence card within 3 months of arrival if staying long-term.

• Carry your passport and residence documents to avoid issues with authorities.