Moving to Malta: Residence permits and more

EU Nationals do not need a permit to reside and work in Malta and such enjoy the privilege of residing in Malta while engaging in activities covered by their treaty rights, which include working, self-employment, economic self-sufficiency, family reunification, exemptions, or pursuing studies.

On the other hand, non-EU nationals, including British, also known and Third Country Nationals (TCNs), need to meet certain criteria to relocate to Malta, whether it is on employment basis, which is the most common reason for relocation, or another basis. For individuals who are not Maltese or EU citizens, securing a Single Work Permit in Malta is an essential prerequisite for commencing work in the country. This permit is a crucial authorisation document for TCNs who wish to work in Malta.

Employers in Malta are facing formidable challenges in the hiring process, both in terms of recruiting local talent and employing TCNs who are still residing abroad. This situation can be particularly difficult for companies or organisations that lack a dedicated HR or admin team to assist them.

The process can be broken down into the following stages, it can be seen as a comprehensive guide for employers on the steps involved in obtaining this permit.

Job Offer and Documentation

Identifying a suitable candidate for a job vacancy is the first step. Once the candidate has been selected and both parties have agreed to the terms, it’s vital to create a detailed job description and establish a contractual agreement between the employer and the. The employer must also complete various application forms, which should be accompanied by copies of the applicant’s full passport, certificates, reference letters, and a CV.

Application Process

After compiling all the necessary documentation, the employer can initiate the application for the Single Work Permit in Malta. This is done through an online portal.

Processing Time and Approval in Principle

The submitted application undergoes processing to ensure accuracy and completeness. Upon verification, the applicant receives an approval in principle letter, granting them the right to apply for a travel visa to Malta.

Visa Application and Travel to Malta

The next step involves applying for a travel visa at the nearest Maltese Embassy/Consulate in the applicant’s home country. The specific documentation requirements may vary from one Embassy/Consulate to another, and, in some cases, an interview may be required.

Jobsplus Engagement and Residence Card Issuance

Once the applicant is granted a visa, they are allowed to travel to Malta. However, before they can commence employment, they must apply for a Maltese residence card. To do so, they will need to provide a valid visa, a lease agreement for residence, a declaration form, proof of health insurance, medical test results, a signed health form, and a Jobsplus engagement form.

It is essential to recognise that these processes can be quite time-consuming and overwhelming due to the substantial amount of paperwork involved and the need to coordinate with different entities, no matter if the individual is from an EU country or a TCN. To ease this burden, our dedicated team offers professional assistance with the paperwork related to residency documentation and Single Work Permits.

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.