Pre-Departure Course Now Compulsory for First-Time Single Work Permit Applicants
Following the article published in November 2025, Further Updates: Implementation of the Malta Labour Migration Policy, about the new mandatory pre-departure course required for all TCNs applying for a single permit, we would like to remind all first time applicants and local employers that the Skills Pass Portal is now open. Identità will begin with verifying certificates as of 1st March 2026.
Full details here:
Before travelling to Malta, all first-time TCN applicants will be required to complete a mandatory pre-departure course and present a valid certificate as part of the single permit application documents.
Course Structure
The programme will follow Malta’s national integration standards and include modules on:
- Basic English-language skills
- Cultural awareness
- Hygiene and workplace conduct
- Rights and obligations at work
- Respect for civic and human rights
- Other essential integration topics
Assessment & Certification
- Applicants must pass an online test delivered through the Skills Pass platform.
- Only successful candidates may proceed with a work permit application.
- The course fee is €250.
- After the assessment, applicants must attend a live online interview to confirm their English proficiency and understanding of the course content.
For sectors such as tourism and hospitality, where Skills Pass requirements already exist, an additional sector-specific course must be completed.
Implementation Timeline
- Skills Pass Portal: Open now
- Identità begins verifying certificates: 1 March 2026
This article is for information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.
Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), guest writer, is a marketing and business administration specialist with a special focus on corporate, accounting, and legal matters.
Sciberras Advocates founded by Dr Adrian Sciberras, is a law firm based in Malta. The firm prides itself to be multi-disciplinary, innovative and flexible in order to meet the changing times and any challenges in the local and international legal scenario. No matter what private or corporate complex demands are called for, Sciberras Advocates offers practical and cost-effective legal solutions to achieve your desired results. You may reach Sciberras Advocates by phone on +35627795222 or via email on [email protected].
