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Updated August 2025 · Malta Labour Migration Policy · 32 New Rules

Malta Single Permit.
What Actually Changed.

Foreign workers are one third of Malta's workforce. The government just rewrote the rulebook. Here is every change, explained plainly, with no legal jargon.

⚠️ First-time application fees doubled from €300 to €600. New termination rate thresholds apply from 1 August 2025.
Check My Company Rules → See Full Timeline
32
New Recommendations
⅓
Malta Workforce is Foreign
€600
New First-Time Fee
30
Day Grace Period
€45K
New KEI Threshold
The Story Timeline Company Checker New Fees Suitability Check KEI & SEI Skills Pass FAQ
Before you read the rules

Why Malta rewrote the playbook.

One in three people working in Malta today is a foreign national. That number grew so fast that the system built to manage it stopped working properly. Housing under pressure. Transport under pressure. Healthcare under pressure. The government had two options: slow the tap or fix the pipes. They chose to fix the pipes.

The new Malta Labour Migration Policy introduces 32 recommendations rolling out from August 2025 through late 2026. Some changes are immediate and practical — new fees, new termination thresholds, new grace periods. Others are structural and longer-term — building a register of exemplary employers, mandatory integration courses, occupation-specific salary studies.

◆

If you are an employer, the key question is: does your termination rate disqualify you from hiring? Are you advertising vacancies correctly? Do you have enough Maltese/EU nationals on your team? This guide answers all of that, by company size, with no legal jargon.

If you are a foreign worker, the critical change is the extended grace period after losing a job: 30 days instead of 10, with the possibility of a further 30. That is a meaningful window to find new employment without leaving the island.

If you arrived on a tourist visa and were hoping to apply for a single permit while in Malta: that door is now closed. From October 2025, you must leave and apply from abroad.

Implementation schedule

What changes, when.

The policy rolls out in phases. Here is every rule, sorted by when it applies to you.

1 August 2025
The Big Changes
Core rules now in effect
Minimum Termination Rate Thresholds
Jobsplus now checks employer termination rates before processing single permit applications. If your rate exceeds the threshold for your company size, your application is rejected.

Small (10–49): rejection above 50% · Medium (50–249): above 45% · Large (250+): above 40%

Thresholds start 15% higher and reduce to target levels by 1 July 2026. Companies under 10 employees, KEI, sports, students and healthcare are exempt.
⚠ Critical for employers
Stricter Job Advertisement Requirements
For new applications and employees still abroad: one advert on Jobsplus portal and one on EURES portal, each for a minimum of 3 weeks, within 2 months before applying.

For KEI, SEI, EU Blue Card, and Skilled Occupation List: one advert on any local media platform for at least 2 weeks within the 2 months prior.
New requirement
Redundancy Block
If you made an employee redundant in the previous 12 months for the same role you are now trying to fill with a foreign national, your application will be rejected. No exceptions.
Watch carefully
4-Day Engagement and Termination Forms
Employers must submit engagement and termination forms to Jobsplus within 4 working days of the employee's start or end date. Miss this deadline and all your pending single permit applications (except renewals) are suspended. Frequent delays can result in full disqualification from submitting new applications.
Non-negotiable deadline
Revised Application Fees
First-time applications: €300 → €600. Change of employer: €300 → €600. Renewals: €300 → €150.
Fee change
Disability Employment Compliance
The Persons with Disability (Employment) Act requires at least 2% of your workforce to be persons with disabilities, or you must make an annual contribution. Non-compliance suspends all pending single permit applications (except renewals).
Compliance required
New Salary Benchmarks: KEI & SEI
Key Employee Initiative (KEI): annual gross salary threshold increases from €35,000 to €45,000.
Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI): increases from €25,000 to €30,000.
Salary thresholds up
Workforce Application Limits
Employers can apply for additional foreign workers based on their company size. Calculated against the number of employees 12 months before the application date:

Micro (1–9): up to 200% · Small (10–49): up to 100% · Medium (50–249): up to 50% · Large (250+): up to 25%

KEI, sports, students and healthcare are exempt.
Applies by company size
Grace Period Extended: 10 Days → 30 Days
When a single permit holder's employment is terminated, they now have 30 days (up from 10) to find new employment and submit a new application. This can be extended by a further 30 days if the individual can show sufficient financial means. This is a meaningful improvement for workers.
Better for workers
No Financial Compensation from Employees
Employers cannot request any financial compensation from foreign workers for hiring or for termination. This addresses reported exploitation in some sectors.
Worker protection
Partners and Families of Maltese Citizens
Partners of Maltese citizens and parents of Maltese citizens under 23 will be granted a residence permit. They do not need a single permit to reside in Malta but must still obtain an employment licence from Jobsplus to work.
New residency rights
1 October 2025
October 2025 Changes
Now in effect
No More In-Country Applications from Tourist Visas
Foreign nationals in Malta on a visa that does not permit employment (tourist visa, for example) cannot apply for a single permit from within Malta. Any such application will be rejected. You must leave Malta and apply from abroad. This closes a widely-used grey area.
Tourist visa loophole closed
Salary Must Be Paid via Licensed Financial Institution
Foreign workers whose employment is registered on or after 1 August 2025 must receive their salaries through a licensed financial institution. Cash payments are not permitted.
No cash salaries
Interim Permits for Visa-Waiver Countries (60-Day Rule)
Foreign nationals from visa waiver countries who apply for a single permit within 60 days of entering the Schengen Area will receive an interim permit to remain in Malta while their application is processed. If you apply from day 61 onwards, no interim permit — you must wait outside the Schengen Area.
60-day window
Fixed Renewal Periods (Identità discretion removed)
Standard renewals: up to 2 years. KEI, SEI, EU Blue Card renewals: up to 3 years. Identità's discretion to grant different periods is removed. Low-skilled workers enrolled in Identità training programmes: renewal extended to 2 years.
Fixed terms, no discretion
1 January 2026
January 2026 Changes
Expected — formal issuance pending
⏳ These changes are expected per the Policy released in January 2025. Formal legal notices are still pending as of the date of this guide.
Desk Investigations of Employment Compliance
Employers who violate employment laws or regulations face up to 12 months' disqualification from submitting new single permit applications. Failure to meet tax and social security obligations results in disqualification until the issue is resolved.
Up to 12-month ban
First Employment Rule
Before applying to hire foreign workers, employers must already employ a minimum number of Maltese/EU nationals or foreign workers with equal treatment (e.g. long-term residents):

Micro (1–9): min. 2 such employees · Small (10–49): min. 4 · Medium (50–249): min. 20 · Large (250+): min. 40
Expected Jan 2026
Minimum Maltese/EU National Employees Required
Similar thresholds — employers must already have a minimum number of Maltese/EU nationals before being eligible to apply for foreign workers. Same thresholds as First Employment rule. Employers with over 80% foreign worker workforce will face enhanced labour market needs testing.
Expected Jan 2026
Suitability Check: CV, Qualifications, References, Language
Each applicant will face an independent suitability check: signed CV (relevant to the role), qualification certificates (MQRIC recognition for lesser-known institutions), regulatory body approval for regulated roles, at least 2 reference letters, and proof of English or Maltese at minimum IELTS Band 6.
Expected Jan 2026
Newly Registered Businesses Lose Labour Market Exemption
Currently new businesses are exempt from the Labour Market Needs Test. This exemption ends. Additionally, new businesses without any Maltese, EU nationals, or long-term residents among their owners will no longer be eligible to apply for foreign workers. Exceptions for FDI cases backed by Malta Enterprise.
Expected Jan 2026
Mandatory Pre-Departure Integration Course
Foreign workers will need to complete a pre-departure integration training under a restructured "I Belong" programme before arriving in Malta. Identità will only issue approval in principle once documentary evidence of course completion is provided. English or Maltese fluency must also be demonstrated.
Expected Jan 2026
Oct 2026 & Ongoing
Longer-Term Changes
Building the infrastructure
Register of Exemplary Employers
Employers who comply fully with employment law and have invested in official training schemes will be eligible for a fast-track register. Benefits: streamlined labour market testing and employee renewal periods of 2–4 years.
Reward for good employers
Occupation-Specific Salary Study
A study will determine salary levels across skilled occupations, forming the basis for occupation-specific salary thresholds for foreign workers. Employers will be expected to pay foreign workers in line with this study.
Ongoing
List of High-Risk Countries
A list of high-risk third countries will be created based on security, public policy, or health concerns. Low-skilled job applications from nationals of these countries will be automatically rejected. Other categories reviewed individually.
Ongoing
Quotas and Hiring Moratoria by Occupation
Jobsplus will continuously analyse labour market shortages and surpluses. Based on findings, it may implement temporary or permanent quotas or hiring bans on specific occupations. Announcements will be made when this happens.
Watch for announcements
Interactive tool

What rules apply to your company?

Select your company size and see exactly which thresholds and limits apply to you.

Company Size Checker
How many people do you employ?
What you pay

Revised Application Fees

Effective from 1 August 2025. All fees are per application.

📈
First-Time Application
Was €300
€600
Doubled. Applies to new applications for foreign nationals not yet in Malta.
📈
Change of Employer
Was €300
€600
Doubled. Applies when a foreign worker moves to a new employer.
📉
Renewal
Was €300
€150
Halved. Good news for long-term employees and employers.
From January 2026

The Suitability Check: What You Need

Every applicant will face an independent check. Prepare these documents in advance.

📄
Signed CV
Must be signed by both the applicant and the employer. Must be relevant to the specific job being applied for. Generic CVs will not be accepted.
🎓
Qualification Certificates
Copies of all relevant certificates. For qualifications from lesser-known institutions, recognition from MQRIC (Malta Qualifications Recognition and Information Centre) is required.
⚖️
Regulatory Body Approval (if applicable)
For regulated occupations (doctors, lawyers, engineers, etc.), approval from the relevant regulatory body in Malta must be obtained before the application can proceed.
📝
Two Reference Letters
At least 2 reference letters confirming the applicant's professional experience and character. These must be from credible sources relevant to the role.
🗣️
Language Proficiency
Proof of English or Maltese language skills at minimum IELTS Band 6 equivalent. If qualification documents are not submitted, interviews may be conducted to assess language skills directly.
Fast-track routes

KEI and SEI: What Are They?

These two routes are mentioned throughout the policy — and they matter because they come with different thresholds, lower advertising requirements, and faster processing. Here is what each one actually means.

Fast-track · Managerial & Highly Technical
Key Employee Initiative
For senior managers and highly technical specialists. The premium fast-track route.
💰
Salary Threshold
Minimum €45,000 gross per year (increased from €35,000 under the new policy).
🎓
Qualifications Required
Certified copies of relevant qualifications, warrants, or proof of experience. Must be a managerial or highly technical role.
📢
Advertising Requirement
One advert on any local media platform for at least 2 weeks within 2 months of application. (Not 3 weeks on Jobsplus/EURES like standard applications.)
🚀
Start-Up Extension
KEI also applies to innovators in start-up projects endorsed by Malta Enterprise.
🔄
Permit Duration
First year: 1 year. Renewals: up to 3 years, provided the employee has a valid contract and submits their annual tax declaration stamped by the Inland Revenue.
💳
Fee
First-time: €600. Renewal: €150/year for up to 3 years.
Alternative Fast-track · Skilled Specialists
Specialist Employee Initiative
For skilled specialists who do not qualify for KEI but have strong academic, vocational or technical credentials.
💰
Salary Threshold
Minimum €30,000 gross per year (increased from €25,000 under the new policy).
🎓
Qualifications Required
Either MQF Level 6 or higher (Bachelor's degree equivalent) directly related to the role. Or lower qualifications plus minimum 3 years' relevant experience, evidenced by signed contracts, certified employment history, or reference letters with contact details and dates.
📢
Advertising Requirement
One advert on any local media platform for at least 2 weeks within 2 months of application. Same as KEI, not the standard 3-week requirement.
⏱️
Processing Time
15 working days from the date the complete application is submitted. Processing only begins when all required documents are received.
📋
Submitted Under
Single Permit Regulations, S.L. 217.17. Only open to non-EU nationals with a signed contract with a Malta-registered company.
💳
Fee
€600 per application.
KEI vs SEI: Quick Comparison
KEI SEI
Min. salary €45,000/yr €30,000/yr
Role type Managerial / highly technical Skilled specialist (any sector)
Job advert 2 weeks, local platform 2 weeks, local platform
Processing Fast-track (same process as standard, expedited) 15 working days
Renewal period Up to 3 years Up to 3 years
Termination threshold Exempt Exempt
Live from 1 March 2026

Skills Pass: The Pre-Departure Course

From 1 March 2026, every first-time single permit applicant must complete an online integration course before applying. Not after arriving. Before. Malta is the first country to make pre-departure integration training a legal requirement for a work permit.

🌐
Portal: Skills Pass
Launched 5 January 2026. Available at skillspass.gov.mt. The course is completed entirely online.
💳
Course Fee: €250
Paid by the applicant or employer. Employers should budget this cost and factor it into their recruitment timeline.
📚
Part 1: Mandatory for All
Two online modules: "Living and Working in Malta" and "Rights and Obligations at the Workplace". Each has an assessment. Combined: 20–24 hours. Must be completed within 42 days. Followed by a 20-minute online interview to verify understanding and English proficiency. On success: a Pre-Departure Course Certificate is issued.
🏨
Part 2: Sector-Specific (if applicable)
Currently applies only to tourism and hospitality. Other sectors may follow. Designed by sector bodies. Successful completion issues a full Skills Pass.
⚠️
What This Means for Employers
Lead times will increase. Candidates need up to 6 weeks to complete the course before submitting an application. Build this into your hiring plan. Budget the €250. Monitor which sectors get added to Part 2.
Often misunderstood

Changing Employer in Malta

One of the most frequently asked questions — and one of the most misunderstood parts of the new rules. Here is exactly how it works.

✓
No Job Advert Required
Change-of-employer applications are exempt from the mandatory vacancy advertising requirements. The new employer does not need to prove a 3-week advert on Jobsplus or EURES.
✓
Stay With Current Employer During Processing
The worker can remain employed by the old employer while the new application is being processed. This avoids any break in legal status or employment.
📋
New Application Must Be Submitted First
The new employer must submit a fresh single permit application through the Identità online portal before the worker starts in the new role. Do not start work before the application is submitted.
💳
Fee: €600
Change-of-employer applications cost €600 — same as a first-time application under the new fee structure.
⚠️
Watch: Permit Expiry During Transition
If your current permit expires while the change-of-employer application is being processed, ensure you have a valid application receipt. This receipt covers your legal status until the decision is made. Do not let the permit expire with no application in progress.
ℹ️
Skills Pass and Change of Employer
In-country change of employer generally follows the 2025 policy. The pre-departure integration course requirement (March 2026) primarily applies to new applicants coming from abroad, not to workers already in Malta changing jobs.
Questions Answered
The most common questions about the new rules.
From 1 August 2025, Jobsplus reviews employer termination rates when processing single permit applications. Small firms (10–49 employees) face rejection if their termination rate exceeds 50%, medium firms (50–249 employees) above 45%, and large firms (250+ employees) above 40%. Initially the thresholds are 15% higher and will reduce to these targets by 1 July 2026. Companies with fewer than 10 employees, KEI applications, sports, students and healthcare are exempt.
From August 2025, first-time applications increase from €300 to €600. Change of employer applications also increase from €300 to €600. Renewal applications decrease from €300 to €150.
Under the new policy, the grace period has been extended from 10 days to 30 days. This period may be extended by an additional 30 days if the individual can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves while seeking new employment.
The Key Employee Initiative (KEI) annual gross salary threshold increases from €35,000 to €45,000. The Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) threshold increases from €25,000 to €30,000. These changes are effective from August 2025.
No. From 1 October 2025, foreign nationals residing in Malta on a visa that does not permit employment, such as a tourist visa, are not eligible to submit a single permit application from within Malta. Any such application will be rejected. You must leave Malta and submit the application from abroad.
For new applications and applications for employees still abroad: 1 job advert on the Jobsplus portal and 1 on the EURES portal, both for a minimum of 3 weeks within the 2 months before the application is submitted. For KEI, SEI, EU Blue Card and Skilled Occupation List applications: 1 advert on any local media platform for at least 2 weeks within the 2 months prior.
Employers can apply for additional foreign workers based on their company size: micro firms (1–9 employees) up to 200%, small firms (10–49 employees) up to 100%, medium firms (50–249 employees) up to 50%, and large firms (250+ employees) up to 25%. The increase is calculated against the number of employees 12 months before the application date. KEI, sports, students and healthcare are exempt.
Each applicant requires: a CV signed by both applicant and employer; qualification certificates (MQRIC recognition for lesser-known institutions); regulatory body approval for regulated occupations; at least 2 reference letters; and proof of English or Maltese language skills at minimum IELTS Band 6 equivalent. These requirements are expected from January 2026.
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