Malta Introduces Mandatory Course for First-Time Work Permit Seekers

Beginning from 1 March 2026, Malta will not accept a first-time Single Permit application unless the applicant has completed the newly introduced mandatory pre-departure training.

If you are a non-EU national intending to work in Malta for the first time, this is now a required step. Without a completion certificate, your application will not be processed.

The system commenced in January 2026; however, from March onwards, officials will rigorously verify the course completion certificate during the review of work permits.

What Is the Single Permit?

The Single Permit in Malta enables non-EU nationals to reside and work in the nation with a singular authorization for both residence and employment.

This permit is widely utilized in industries experiencing workforce shortages, such as tourism, hospitality, construction, and care services.

Prospective applicants must fulfill additional requirements before submitting their permit application.

What Is the New Pre-Departure Course?

The purpose of the course is to ensure that incoming employees:

• Can engage in basic English communication
• Are familiar with their workplace rights and responsibilities
• Understand what living and working in Malta entails

The central aim is straightforward. Malta aims for workers to arrive informed, not bewildered.

Part 1: Integration Course (Compulsory for All Initial Applicants)

Every new applicant is required to fulfill Part 1. It consists of two online modules:

• Living and Working in Malta
• Rights and Obligations in the Workplace

Each module typically requires around 10 to 12 hours to complete. There are videos, reading assignments, and brief evaluations at the end.

Upon completing the modules, applicants must participate in a 20-minute interview. This interview assesses:

• Basic English proficiency
• Comprehension of the course material

Interviews will be conducted either at ITS Malta or at recognized assessment centers around the globe.

Applicants have a maximum of 42 days to finish this section.

Part 2: Applicable Only to Certain Industries

Part 2 is not universal. It is required for individuals in regulated fields such as:

• Tourism
• Hospitality

These job roles might necessitate additional training or certification as per Maltese law.

If your position falls into this category, you will need to complete:

• The Pre-Departure Course
• The Skills Pass requirements

How the Process Operates

The steps are as follows:

1. Register on the Skills Pass Portal
2. Complete Part 1 online
3. Participate in the verification interview
4. Obtain the Pre-Departure Course Certificate
5. Submit your application for the Single Permit

The entire procedure is largely online, however, attending the interview is a requirement.

From 1 March 2026, the certificate will be mandatory during the application review process.

What Is the Cost?

The fee for the course is €250, which must be paid prior to starting the training.

Who Is Exempt?

Reasons for Malta Implementing This

This updated system seeks to:

• Enhance job security
• Safeguard migrant workers
• Foster improved integration
• Align migration practices with genuine labour market needs

In essence, Malta aspires to minimize surprises for both employees and employers.

Implications for Future Applicants

Here’s the practical situation.

The new regulation will likely:

• Extend the application processing time
• Raise initial expenses
• Make English proficiency more crucial

For some candidates, particularly those with limited English skills, the interview may present a challenge.

Employers hiring non-EU personnel should take the extra time and costs into account when making job offers.

If you plan to seek work in Malta in 2026, ensure this is factored into your schedule. Begin early, prepare thoroughly for the interview, and ensure your English is proficient enough for basic workplace interactions.

Because starting March 2026, this requirement will be obligatory.