19.07.2023

Employers in Malta are facing significant challenges when it comes to hiring new employees. The difficulty lies not only in finding suitable local candidates but also in employing Third Country Nationals (TCNs) who are still residing abroad. This situation poses a considerable burden, particularly for companies or setups that lack a dedicated HR or admin team to rely on.

For individuals who are not Maltese or EU citizens, obtaining a Single Work Permit in Malta is a prerequisite for starting work in the country. The Single Work Permit is a document that grants authorisation for TCNs to work in Malta. It is obtained through a formal application process. This article aims to guide employers through the process involved in acquiring this permit.

The full process essentially involves the following:

  • Job offer
  • Application process
  • Documentation
  • Processing time
  • Approval in principle
  • Visa application
  • Travel to Malta
  • Jobsplus engagement
  • Residence card issuance

Once a suitable candidate has been identified and accepted for a job vacancy, it is crucial to create a well-defined job description and establish a contractual agreement between the employer and the prospective employee. Various application forms need to be completed, accompanied by copies of the applicant’s full passport, certificates, reference letters, and a CV. Once all the required documents are gathered, the employer can proceed to apply for the Single Work Permit in Malta through an online portal.

Once the application is submitted, it undergoes processing to ensure its accuracy and completeness. Upon confirmation of the application’s validity, the applicant receives an approval in principle letter, which allows them to apply for a travel visa to Malta. The applicant must approach the nearest Maltese Embassy/Consulate in their home country to initiate the visa application process. During this step, certain documentation must be presented as evidence justifying the need for a visa. The specific requirements may vary depending on the respective Embassy/Consulate, and an interview might be required in some cases.

Upon obtaining the visa, the applicant is permitted to travel to Malta. However, before they can begin working, they must apply for a Maltese residence card. To complete this step, the applicant must provide a valid visa, a lease agreement for a residence, a declaration form, proof of health insurance, medical test results, a signed health form, and a Jobsplus engagement form.

It is important to acknowledge that these processes can be lengthy, overwhelming, and time-consuming. The abundance of paperwork, along with the need to coordinate and liaise with different entities, can make the entire process challenging. It is essential to consult the official guidelines and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with the current regulations and procedures for work permits for Third Country Nationals in Malta. To alleviate this burden, our team offers professional assistance with the paperwork associated with Single Work Permits for TCNs. We are equipped to handle the entire employment and residency process on your behalf. For more information on this topic, please visit our webpage here https://fairwindsmanagement.net/services/administration/schengen-work-permit-residency/ or contact us directly for a quote: info@fairwindsmanagement.net / +356 2704 0903.

Fairwinds Management Limited is a MFSA licensed firm offering Business Solutions in Malta. As part of our services, we offer Accounting, Administration, Corporate and Legal solutions.  Fairwinds Management also manages the brand Accounting Services. More information about us and our key services please visit our website. You may reach Fairwinds Management on +356 2704 0903 or info@fairwindsmanagement.net.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), guest writer, a marketing and business administration specialist with a special focus on corporate, accounting, and legal matters.