Overview
Malta is an island gem with stunning natural beauty, a rich mix of cultures and a history that captivates. Its landscape, though not as vast as mountain ranges or glaciers, is dotted with historic fortifications, golden beaches, and unique architecture, all closely knit together. Buzzing cities like Valletta, the capital, offer a blend of age-old traditions and modern living, while smaller towns and villages display Malta's deep-rooted hospitality and tales from its diverse past.
Malta's economy balances between its historic sectors like fishing and newer industries such as IT and tourism. The country is renowned for its historical sites, attracting tourists from all corners of the globe. With a history influenced by the Romans, Knights of St. John, French and British, Malta beautifully marries its storied past with a dynamic present. The nation's industries are blossoming, and its people are weaving together both tradition and innovation. Drawing visitors and professionals with its blend of timeless allure and modern vibrancy, Malta stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of old and new.
Reasons to work in Malta
Malta, though compact in size, stands tall as a developed nation with a commendable standard of living. The country boasts a robust education framework, top-notch healthcare and reliable infrastructure. Recognised globally for its quality of life, Malta's accolades include high rankings in wealth, education, health and overall lifestyle metrics. Here are some compelling reasons why Malta beckons career seekers from all over the world.
- Dynamic Sectors: Malta’s strategic location has made it a hub for various industries. From its world-renowned gaming and finance sectors to its burgeoning tech and maritime industries, Malta offers a plethora of job opportunities tailored to diverse skill sets and expertise.
- Quality of Life: Malta's allure goes beyond its sun-kissed shores and historic streets. The island offers a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, warm locals, and a sense of community, all of which contribute to an enriching living experience, positively impacting overall well-being.
- Work-Life Balance: The Maltese understand the importance of balancing work with leisure. The country promotes a work culture that values personal time and relaxation. Employees often find themselves enjoying ample vacation days, flexible work policies, and an overall environment that advocates a harmonious blend of work and life.
- Pleasant Climate: Malta ranks 4th for best climate, according to Expat Insider. On summer days in Malta, you can enjoy the sunshine for over 12 hours a day with an average temperature of 28℃, often moderated by cool sea breezes.
- Inclusive Work Environment: Malta's rich culture and its influence over the millennia have fostered an inclusive and diverse work culture. Organisations here champion values of equality and diversity, cultivating workspaces where everyone, regardless of their background, feels welcomed and valued.
- Strong Economy: Malta's economy is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. As a member of the European Union, its economic framework offers stability and growth opportunities. Employees in Malta can anticipate competitive remuneration packages and benefits, ensuring both job satisfaction and financial security.
Getting a Job in Malta as a Foreigner
Malta, with its strategic location and booming sectors, has always been receptive to international talent. The Maltese government and employers value skills from abroad, especially in sectors like gaming, finance, tech and maritime services. If you're considering Malta for career growth, you'll typically need a work permit, and you should secure your work permit before arriving in Malta. Normally, you can proceed with the work permit application once you receive a job offer. To navigate this process, you can consider the Opentoworld's simplified steps:
Step 1: Find suitable positions on Opentoworld
On Opentoworld, you can look for job opportunities that offer visa sponsorship for foreign nationals who don't have the right to work freely in Malta. You can filter results based on keywords, location, industry and job level to locate a suitable position easily.
Step 2: Submit job applications
Once identified the right opportunity, you can submit your applications directly by clicking "Apply Now". When submitting applications, you may need to submit a CV (resume) and sometimes a cover letter. It is important to submit an up-to-date CV and a cover letter that are tailored to the job.
Step 3: Complete the application process
If your skills and experience meet the employer's requirements, the employer may invite you to complete assessments and interviews. For certain roles, especially internships or graduate positions, there might be assessment days, similar to what some might call assessment centres.
Step 4: Secure a job offer
If you are successful in your application, you'll receive a job offer. It might require applying to multiple positions before landing a suitable offer. Remember, having a job offer is crucial for a Maltese work permit application.
Step 5: Apply for a visa and relocate
Upon accepting the job offer, your employer will usually guide you through the work permit application process and might act as a sponsor. The key visa pathways for non-EU/EEA job seekers in Malta include:
- Single Permit: A work visa that allows the holder to live and work in Malta long-term. This is the most common type of work permit.
- EU Blue Card: Issued to highly skilled workers who will work in a qualified position and earn a salary which is at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Malta.
- Key Employee Initiative (KEI): Provides a faster process for highly-specialised third-country nationals.
Once your work permit is in hand, you can make plans to move to Malta or prolong your stay if you're already there. Start by looking for accommodation and, if necessary, register with the Identity Malta Agency.
Note: EU/EEA/Swiss nationals do not require a work permit to work in Malta.
Maltese Employment Market in 2023
As of 2023, the Malta employment market is also strong and growing, with unemployment at a record low of 2.5%. The participation rate is estimated at 80.4%, with the highest rate recorded among persons aged 25 to 54 (91.5%). Recent data indicates that employment numbers have risen significantly to reach 291,756 in the first quarter of 2023. Within these numbers, full-time positions have increased substantially, accounting for 87.9% of total employment.
This improving employment landscape is driven by a number of factors, including the government's economic recovery plan, which is investing heavily in key industries such as tourism, gaming and financial services. The competitive job market has prompted employers to offer attractive salaries and perks, including tax breaks and relocation assistance for high-skilled workers, to lure top talent from around the world.
The positive employment conditions are expected to continue through 2023 and 2024, underpinned by a resilient and diversified economy that makes Malta an appealing destination for global professionals.
Top Industries that Attract Global Talent
Malta's strategic location, Mediterranean climate and high quality of life make it an attractive hub for international talent. There is also a shortage of skilled workers in some sectors, such as gaming, fintech and healthcare. This is creating opportunities for job seekers with the right skills and experience. The following sectors are especially attractive for foreign job seekers:
- Gaming: Malta is a leading global hub for the online gaming industry, and it is home to some of the world's largest gaming companies. The industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, creating demand for workers in areas such as software development, customer support and marketing.
- Fintech: The country is a rapidly growing fintech hub, and there is a strong demand for workers in areas such as blockchain development, cryptocurrency regulation and digital payments. The country is home to a number of fintech startups and established financial institutions.
- Healthcare: Malta has a world-class healthcare system and is also a leader in medical tourism. There are numerous opportunities for medical professionals, researchers and pharmaceutical developers.
- Technology: The tech sector in Malta is growing rapidly, and there is a strong demand for workers in areas such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. The country is home to a number of tech startups and established multinational companies.
- Education: The country has a highly regarded education system, and there is a growing demand for English-speaking teachers at all levels. Many teaching jobs are exempt from the work permit requirement.
- Financial Services: Malta is a major financial services centre, and there is a growing demand for professionals in asset management, banking and insurance. The country is home to a number of international banks and asset management firms.
Overall, the Maltese employment market offers a wide range of opportunities for global talent. Job seekers with in-demand skills and experience are likely to find good opportunities in Malta.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs in top industries in Malta:
Requirements for a Maltese Work Visa
Everyone who comes from a non-EU/EEA country or Switzerland needs to apply for a visa to work in Malta. You need a visa even if you will work for less than 90 days. Most individuals moving to Malta for a job apply for a work permit under the Single Permit scheme. If you're being transferred by your company to a Maltese branch, you might be eligible for the Key Employment Initiative. These work and residence permits are usually granted for a specific period, and extensions are possible. To be eligible, applicants must have a confirmed job offer from a sponsoring employer in Malta.
Single Permit
The Single Permit in Malta offers a combined residence and work permit for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. This permit makes the process more streamlined for third-country nationals aiming to stay and work in Malta.
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- Job Offer: You must secure a job offer in Malta. You can apply for jobs that can sponsor a work permit via Opentoworld.
- Valid Contract: The employment contract must be submitted, outlining the nature of the job and terms of employment.
- Health Insurance: Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage in Malta. Your employer will be able to advise you on this.
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed for highly-skilled non-EU nationals. It facilitates easier access to the Maltese labour market and promises certain socio-economic rights and favourable conditions for family reunification.
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- Highly-Qualified Employment: Must have a binding job offer or active work contract for highly qualified employment lasting at least one year. You can apply for jobs that can sponsor a work permit via Opentoworld.
- Salary Threshold: Must earn at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Malta.
- Professional Qualifications: Proof of higher professional qualifications, often a diploma or higher degree.
Key Employee Initiative (KEI)
The KEI provides a faster route for highly specialised third-country nationals seeking to work in Malta. It expedites the process, making it more efficient.
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- Designated Sectors: Target sectors include financial services, gaming, aviation and more.
- Salary Threshold: Depending on the sector, specific salary thresholds apply, generally reflecting the high-skilled nature of the roles.
- Swift Process: Typically, a decision is reached within five working days from the submission of the application.
By satisfying the criteria for one of these specific permits, you can apply for a work permit in Malta. Your employer will often support you through the application process. Once you have obtained your work permit, you can embark on a rewarding career in Malta, relishing its Mediterranean lifestyle and rich cultural blend.
Once you have resided in Malta under these permits for a specific period, usually five years, you may be eligible for long-term residency status, further deepening your ties with this vibrant island nation.
Relevant Links:
Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Malta
Other Common Visa Options to Work in Malta
How to Write a Maltese Standard CV
