There are many people from all around the world who are interested in moving to Malta and working here. If you happen to be one of those people and looking for answers about the work permit process, then this article is for you. Here we are going to discuss some important information about the work permit application, processing time and other related questions. Hopefully, after going through this article, you’ll have a better idea regarding how long does it take to get work permit in Malta.
How long does it take to get a work permit in Malta? Is the process complicated? What documents are needed for Work Permit? All these questions will be answered in this article.If you are planning to relocate, there are many reasons for you to consider Malta for a new home. Thanks to its favorable work permit programs and attractive tax-free income policies, the country has become a popular location for relocation. That being said, you may even want to apply for work permit in Malta .
How Long Does It Take To Get Work Permit In Malta
Malta, which is part of the European union has a high employment rate in its various industries which is an attractive factor for overseas jobseekers to look for a job here. People from outside the EU or EEA have to apply for a work permit in order to work here.
Overseas jobseekers who wish to work here must have their work permits sponsored by their employers as dictated by immigration laws in their country. Employees from non-EU countries must first get a visa to enter Malta and then apply for a work permit once they are in the country.
Employment licenses must be applied for by the employer and not by the jobseeker.
Work permit for non-EU citizens
Individuals form non-EU nations are eligible for a Single Permit Application which is processed by their employer and gives them the right to work and live in Malta. The application for a Single Permit must include the following documents:
- Copy of a valid employment contract
- Private medical insurance policy that provides coverage for 12 months
- Covering letter from the prospective employer
- Position description signed by the employer
- A signed CV showing work experience of at least three years
A single permit is also known as the e-residence card grants individuals the right to live and work in Malta, however the applicant must have a valid visa to stay in Malta.
The single permit is usually processed in two to three months. The permit is valid for one year. The residence card is linked to the employer whose work contract was included in the application. The cad will become invalid if the individual ceases to work with that particular employer.
The employer can submit the application on behalf of the employee. If the application is successful an authorization letter is issued to the employer to allow the applicant to come to Malta and work there. At this stage the applicants can apply for a visa to enter Malta based on the letter and complete the single permit process once they are in Malta.
Renewal of work permit: Single permits can be renewed by submitting an application for renewal, which must be accompanied by documentation certifying that income tax and national insurance contributions have been duly paid for the preceding 12 months.
Key Employment Initiative (KEI)
The KEI is a relatively new scheme launched by the government of Malta that provided a fast-track work permit application service to non-EU citizens with highly specialized skills who wish to work in Malta.
Under this scheme prospective employees can get their single permits within five working days after they submit their application. This option is open for those qualified for managerial or highly-technical roles which require relevant qualifications or work experience.
Applicants for this scheme must meet the following criteria:
- They must have an annual gross salary of at least 30,000 pounds
- Certified copies that prove they have the relevant qualifications and the necessary work experience of at least a three-year period
- Declaration by the employer that they have the necessary qualifications to perform the job
The KEI scheme is also extended to innovators who are keen to initiate start-up projects in Malta. Approved permits will be valid for one year which can then be renewed for a maximum of three years.
EU Blue card
Individuals from non-EU countries who have the EU Blue Card can apply for a work permit which will be valid for one year and can be renewed later. EU Blue Card holders will be given special consideration provided they are highly-qualified and are being hired for a job that whose annual gross salary is 1.5 times higher than the normal wages in Malta.
Qualifying Employment in Innovation and Creativity
Another option is the Qualifying Employment in Innovation and Creativity which is available to citizens of countries in the European Economic Area, Switzerland and third wcountries.
To qualify one must have an annual income which is over 52,000 Euros. Individuals must have a suitable qualification or sufficient professional experience in a function comparable to that of the Eligible Office for a minimum of three (3) years.
In addition to meeting the minimum annual income requirement, a beneficiary must also meet the following criteria:
· Must not be domiciled in Malta
· Do not draw taxable employment income from work performed in Malta or any time spent outside Malta in conjunction with such work or tasks
· Under Maltese law, you are protected as an employee.
· Demonstrate that they have professional qualifications to the satisfaction of the competent authority
· Must have consistent and reliable resources that are sufficient to support themselves and their family (without recourse to the social assistance system in Malta)
· Reside in housing that is considered regular for a comparable family in Malta and complies with Malta’s general health and safety regulations.
· Must have a valid travel document
· Must have health insurance
Employment license through JobsPlus
Jobsplus is the government body responsible for issuing employment licenses that are usually valid for one year from the issue date. Applications for employment licenses must be submitted by the prospective employer, and are subject to considerations of the labor market.
Multiple ways to get a work permit for Malta
| Visa category | Features |
| Single Permit | Applied by employer, valid for one year |
| Key Employment Initiative | Fast-track work permit application for highly-specialized individuals |
| EU Blue Card | For highly qualified individuals, higher gross salary |
| JobsPlus | Government body for issuing job licenses |
There are multiple ways to get a work permit if you are seeking an overseas job in Malta.