The Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) has released its latest annual report, shedding light on the state of workers’ rights and employment practices in Malta for 2024. From unpaid wages to irregularities in workplace practices, the report highlights key statistics and actions taken to improve conditions for employees. Here’s a breakdown of the findings in point form.

Employment Irregularities in 2024:

• 675 workers were not paid.
• 379 workers were not given their bonus or weekly allowance.
• 2,225 cases of irregularities were found by DIER.
• 408 cases involved workers not being given their annual leave.
• 268 cases involved workers not being given their payslips.

Actions Taken by DIER:

• 1,202 investigations were opened.
• 552 cases were resolved quickly.
• 107 inspections were carried out.
• 172 workers were interviewed.
• 172 cases of irregularities were taken to court.
• €1.6 million in wages were returned to unpaid workers.

Food Courier Investigations:

• 44 food courier fleet managers were investigated.
• Legal proceedings were taken against 5 fleet managers.
• Employment Agency Licenses:
• 145 licenses were issued.

Collective Agreements and Trade Unions:

• 13 new collective agreements were signed.
• 43 extensions of existing agreements were made.
• 1 new trade union was registered, for a total of 45 trade unions in Malta.
• DIER is working on removing 5 trade unions and 2 employer associations from the register.

At Sciberras Advocates, we are committed to providing expert guidance and support in all aspects of employment law, from drafting contracts to resolving disputes and managing terminations. Our services extend to employers and employees alike.

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), guest writer, a marketing and business administration specialist with a special focus on corporate, accounting, and legal matters.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

De la serie Living, Land & Law: Fortnight Insights – Artículo 2

¿Qué recursos puede interponer un comprador si una propiedad adquirida no cumple con los estándares esperados, como una calidad de construcción deficiente?

En un contrato de compraventa, y en términos del artículo 1378 del Código Civil, son dos las obligaciones principales del vendedor: en primer lugar, entregar la cosa, y en segundo lugar, garantizar las cosas vendidas. La entrega de bienes inmuebles se realiza ipso iure, es decir, sobre la publicación del contrato de compraventa. También existe la entrega material del inmueble, que suele simbolizarse con la entrega de las llaves.

El objeto de la venta debe ser entregado en el mismo estado en que se encontraba en el momento de la venta. En este sentido, se pueden mencionar dos garantías contra el vendedor. En primer lugar, está la garantía de calidad, según el artículo 1390 del Código Civil, que establece que si la cosa que el vendedor se ofrece a entregar no es de la calidad prometida, el comprador puede rechazar la cosa y exigir daños y perjuicios, o bien aceptar la cosa con una disminución del precio. Por lo tanto, esta garantía puede ser utilizada por el comprador cuando la calidad de la propiedad no cumple con el estándar asegurado en el contrato de compraventa. Además, según el artículo 1407, el plazo dentro del cual el comprador puede interponer una acción por daños y perjuicios o solicitar una disminución del precio es de dos años. No obstante, como se confirma en la sentencia de Philip Degorgio vs Kenneth Cole, en representación de H.P Cole Ltd, el artículo 1390 ofrece dos remedios separados al comprador: o bien devolver la propiedad y reclamar daños y perjuicios, o bien quedarse con la propiedad con una reducción del precio. Sin embargo, estas dos acciones no pueden ejercerse simultáneamente.

El segundo recurso disponible para el comprador es hacer uso de la garantía contra vicios ocultos, tal como se recoge en el artículo 1424 del Código Civil. En virtud de este artículo, el vendedor está obligado a garantizar la cosa vendida contra cualquier vicio oculto que la haga impropia para el uso a que se destina, o que disminuya su valor de tal manera que el comprador no la habría adquirido, o habría ofrecido un precio menor, si hubiera tenido conocimiento de ellos. El comprador podrá, en tal caso, desistir del contrato o exigir la devolución de la parte del precio.

El conocimiento del vendedor sobre el defecto es irrelevante, ya que la obligación de garantía contra vicios ocultos no deriva de la mala fe. No obstante, la teoría seguida por nuestros tribunales es la de Baudry-Lacantinerie, quien creía que el comprador debía recurrir primero a un experto para examinar el objeto y evaluar si la cosa que se pretende comprar tiene algún defecto o no, en caso de que no pueda realizar dicho examen por sí mismo. La aplicabilidad de esta teoría se puede observar en el caso Guillaumier vs. Zammit, donde el tribunal no aplicó la garantía en el presente caso, ya que el demandante no había contratado a un arquitecto para inspeccionar la propiedad antes de comprarla.

Además, en cuanto al artículo 1425 del Código Civil, el vicio en sí mismo debe ser oculto. Por lo tanto, el vendedor no responde por los vicios aparentes que el comprador haya podido descubrir por sí mismo. Aquí, el estándar adoptado por nuestros tribunales, al evaluar si un vicio era aparente o no para el comprador, es el estándar de la diligencia y atención ordinarias. Por lo tanto, el vicio debe ser objetivamente oculto y subjetivamente desconocido para el comprador. El vicio también debe existir en el momento de la venta, en lugar de en la entrega.

En tal caso de vicios ocultos, a tenor del artículo 1427 del Código Civil, el comprador podrá ejercitar, bien la Acción redhibitoria o el Acción Estimatoria. En la primera acción, el comprador recuperaría la cosa y le sería devuelto el precio, mientras que en la segunda, el comprador conservaría la cosa pero se le devolvería una parte del precio. Esta última acción también se conoce como cuánto menor. Por lo tanto, en el Acción redhibitoria, las partes volverían a su antigua posición, previa al contrato.

Estas dos acciones no pueden interponerse simultáneamente, y por lo tanto son mutuamente excluyentes. No obstante, si la cosa comprada está afectada por varios vicios ocultos, la Acción Estimatoria podrán interponerse tantas veces como defectos existan. Por otro lado, si el comprador opta por la Acción redhibitoria, entonces, el comprador deberá devolver la cosa al vendedor por la cual este último deberá devolver el precio. La restitución de la cosa incluirá la restitución de los frutos mientras que la restitución del precio también incluirá la restitución de los intereses.

Entonces, en términos del artículo 1429 del Código Civil, si los defectos son conocidos por el vendedor, este no solo está obligado a devolver el precio recibido, sino que también es responsable de los daños y perjuicios.

El plazo para interponer una acción judicial es de un año. Como se confirma en la sentencia de AC y su esposa BC contra Central Home Style Limited, el plazo perentorio de un año comienza a contar desde que el vendedor pudo haber tenido conocimiento del defecto, y no desde la fecha en que se establece la existencia de dicho defecto. Por lo tanto, el año comienza a contar desde la fecha de compra, o desde la fecha en que fue posible para el comprador descubrir el defecto oculto con el uso de cuidado, atención y diligencia ordinarios.

Nuestro equipo de expertos en derecho inmobiliario de Sciberras Advocates en Malta está aquí para ayudarlo con cualquier problema legal que pueda encontrar. No dude en contactarnos en [email protected] para recibir apoyo profesional.

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo e investigación realizados por la Sra. Caitlin Turner, actualmente estudiante de la Licenciatura en Derecho (con honores) en la Universidad de Malta..

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

We would like to remind all appellants that to withdraw an appeal, a specific form must be completed. The form requires:

• Details of the appeal
• Reason(s) for withdrawal
• Date and signature

The completed form should be submitted to the Immigration Appeals Board in Valletta.

The form can be downloaded from here.

For further assistance or inquiries, please contact our office. Our team of immigration lawyers in Malta can assist you with work permit appeals to protect your immigration status and residency in Malta and as well withdrawal of appeals.

We encourage you to contact us for support on [email protected].

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), guest writer, a marketing and business administration specialist with a special focus on corporate, accounting, and legal matters.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

From the series Living, Land & Law: Fortnight Insights – Article 1

What legal remedies are available to property owners when third parties cause damage to their property?

Does insurance typically cover such damages?

In Maltese property law, owners have specific legal remedies which they can resort to, when third parties cause damages to their property, particularly during construction or demolition works. The Avoidance of Damage to Third Party Property Regulations, Subsidiary Legislation 623.06, governs situations where construction projects may affect adjacent properties, requiring developers to adhere to measures designed to prevent and manage damage. These Regulations are made applicable to any construction work involving one or more of the following:

• Any excavation impacting the surrounding area of third-party property
• The demolition of any existing structures which are contiguous to or occupied by third parties
• The building of additional storeys or load-bearing walls or structures over any property which belongs to or is occupied by third parties
• The construction of new buildings or additional storeys adjacent to existing third-party property.

When it comes to insurance, also in terms of the Avoidance of Damage to Third Party Property Regulations, developers, when applying for a permit must secure an insurance cover of a minimum of €750,000 and must be renewed until the work is completed.  A copy of the insurance copy must be sent to the Director of the Building Regulation Office (BRO). Secondly, a bank guarantee, the value of which cannot exceed €40,000 must also be provided.

Nonetheless, this may not be required if the developer has submitted a certified statement issued by an insurance company stating that the developer is also insured to cover indemnity for damages to third parties.

When it comes to building on adjacent property, the developer must prepare a condition report on the opposite, underlying and overlying third party property, which a copy of it must be sent to third parties at least 2 weeks prior to the commencement of the work. In case of excavation the condition report must also contain within it the properties which fall within the affected zone of excavation. The condition report must specify how loads are to be transmitted to the foundations, identifying the type and dimensions of foundations within the designated zone and estimating the bearing pressure found at foundation level for strip footings, pat footings and raft foundations.

If the owners of the adjacent or nearby property, who would have received a copy of the report encounter any problems or disagree with anything which is contained therein, they should give notice to the Director of the BRO within 2 weeks. Otherwise, the report would have been deemed to be accepted. When a notice is indeed given, still, the architect can consult with the third parties to issue a second report. If there is still no agreement, then the Director can order an inspection.

Nonetheless, if the architect in charge of the project certifies that the construction works will not affect third party property, the developer need not do an insurance cover, a bank guarantee, a method statement and a condition report, and a site technical officer would not need to be appointed. However, if these documents are required, these must be made available online, allowing third parties to raise objections to the proposed activities.

A person violating these regulations can be subject to either criminal proceedings or else to an administrative penalty. These regulations are made applicable to works which have started but were not complete by the 25^{th of} June 2019 and also to those construction works which are yet to start. 

Other safeguards are put in place to ensure that third-party damage is avoided. Under the Avoidance of Damage to Third Party Property Regulations, the architect is responsible for ensuring that the contractor fulfils his obligations. A licenced ‘perit’ must also fulfil the role of a site technical officer in cases of demolition and excavation projects. Nonetheless, sometimes, this role can also be filled by the same architect who is overseeing the project.

The architect in charge is also vested with professional responsibility when it comes to the method statement. Through the 2019 amendments, it is obligatory to specify, in the method statement the starting point of the excavation, any required phasing for achieving necessary rock buttressing, the permitted and prohibited machinery equipment and the type and location of the crane which is used. Whilst the architect will retain the ultimate responsibility for the method statement, its enforcement lies with the site technical officer and implementation lies with the contractor. This method statement must also be submitted within a minimum of 2 weeks before the commencement of the work. If any interested third party wishes for the Director to review this statement, a detailed report must be submitted by an architect indicating the technical reasons for review.

Today, it is the duty of the site technical officer to consult with the architect in charge of the project if procedural uncertainties. The site technical officer also has a duty to report to the architect and to the BRO of any violations by the contractor.

If the director of the BRO feels that there is no adherence to the above regulations, he may issue an enforcement notice to halt the commencement of the work. Thereafter, this shall be communicated with the architect and contractor so that the order is complied with. The director also has the power to issue interim measures and impose administrative penalties for infringement of any provision.

If works have commenced and the neighbours note that the construction is not being done in accordance with the method statement, then, they can report to the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and file for a warrant of prohibitory injunction. A lawsuit for damages can also be filed in accordance with Clause 20(2) of the above-mentioned regulations which directs third parties suffering damages to refer the case to arbitration. Therefore, if the damages incurred by third parties do not impair the stability of the property or endanger its inhabitants, or else, if the cost of damages does not exceed €1 million, then, the case must be referred to arbitration. Then, if the claim does refer to damages which do exceed €1 million or which endanger the inhabitants, the matter is to be referred to the ordinary courts.

Our team of property law experts at Sciberras Advocates in Malta is here to assist with any legal issues you may encounter. Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] for professional support.

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo e investigación realizados por la Sra. Caitlin Turner, actualmente estudiante de la Licenciatura en Derecho (con honores) en la Universidad de Malta..

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

Types of Appeals at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta

If your Single Permit Application was refused, you have a right to appeal this decision with the Immigration Appeals Board within three days of the notification of such decision in accordance with Article 20(2) of Subsidiary Legislation 217.17.

If your Visa Application was refused, annulled or revoked by Maltese authorities, you have the right to appeal this decision with the Immigration Appeals Board within fifteen days of the notification of such decision as per Article 25A(5) of Chapter 217.

If you received a Return Order to go back to your country, you have the right to appeal this decision with the Immigration Appeals Board within three days of the notification of such decision. The right to appeal is also stated in Article 25A(5) of Chapter 217.

Appealing at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta

The following are instructions of how to appeal at the Immigration Appeals Boards.

Located in Malta

If you have received a refusal or a ban, and you would like to appeal, the best way forward is to go directly in person to the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta and open an appeal. Once done, you will be given a receipt containing the appeal reference number and a deadline of 10 days to provide relevant submissions/supporting documentation.

When attending at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta you will need to fill in the Official Appeals Form which can be downloaded from the box below. Please ensure you take a copy of the Refusal Letter and your Residence Card / Passport.

Located overseas (in case of Visa Application refusals)

If you have received a refusal or a ban, and you would like to appeal, however you are located overseas, the best way forward is to contact Sciberras Advocates, and one of our immigration lawyers will handle the opening of the appeal. Once done, we will be given a receipt containing the appeal reference number and a deadline of one month to provide relevant submissions/supporting documentation.

Assistance through Sciberras Advocates, a Malta immigration and employment law firm

Once your appeal is open, you may set up an appointment with one of the immigration lawyers at Sciberras Advocates to request assistance services with the paperwork and submission file for your appeal. You will need to provide your identification documents and any papers or documents in hand to assist with building the case. Once your file is ready, we will make the submissions at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta and confirm submission through the receipt given to us by the same office.

When we submit an appeal application on your behalf, our engagement with you terminates as soon as the application is lodged, and an application reference is received. This is unless we have requested a tribunal hearing, which is most common for Single Permit Appeals. In this case, our legal team will follow up and accompany to represent you at the hearing.  

In cases of Return Orders Appeals, it is possible that on certain instances, appeals are lodged directly with the Principal Immigration Officer (PIO), however this is decided on a case-by-case basis.

Why is it important to Appeal?

In certain cases, filing an appeal is crucial to avoid overstaying in Malta or falling into an irregular status. By submitting your appeal within the stipulated deadline, you safeguard your legal stay in Malta.

Address of the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta

15, 1st Floor, City Gates Building, Ordinance Street, Valletta, VLT 1020

Directions: On top of Burger King… first floor to the right side going up the stairs.

Phone: +356 2568 9447 / +356 2568 9448

Opening hours of the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta

The office is open every day from 8am to 12pm (except weekends and public holiday).

However, reduced hours are applicable during summer. The opening hours from 16th June to 30th September are as follows:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – open from 8am to 12pm | Wednesday – closed all day

The office is closed during weekends and public holidays.

Fees payable to the Registrar of the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB)

For the filing of an application of an appeal from decisions on the issuance of Single Permit Application (residence and work permit) – €45

For the filing of an application of an appeal from decisions on the issuance of visas – €120

For the filing of an application of an appeal from decisions on matters of carrier liability – €120

Important note: One can only pay by card. Cash payment is not accepted.

Notes in relation to Appeals the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB)

Kindly print out all necessary documents. Digital copies will not be accepted.

Keep your receipt safe. Make a photocopy, and scan and save it safely on your phone/pc.

Always carry a copy with you, as that document is proof that you have a regular position in Malta.

Renewing your Appeal at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB)

An appeal is valid for two months, so it is important that you personally go to the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) before the expiry date listed on the stamp, so that you renew your interest in the appeal. The office will make a new stamp with an extension date valid for another two months.

Checking status of your Appeal at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB)

If you would like to check the status of your application, you may send an email as follows quoting the application reference number:

For Single Permit Appeal: [email protected]

For VISA Refusal Appeal: [email protected]

The application reference number will be in a format similar as follows:

For Single Permit Appeal: IAB/SP/1234/2025

For VISA Refusal Appeal: IAB/VISA/1234/25

The above numbers are examples of how the application reference number look.

Decision length of an Appeal at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB)

Typically appeals take between 9 months to 1 year to get a result, but occasionally it can take longer. The reason is that the appeal needs to be sent to all the respective stakeholders for their comments after which they are passed on to the Board for their final decision.

Decision of an Appeal at the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office

Eventually you will receive an appointment for the decision of your appeal application. In this appointment you need to attend personally to collect the decision of your appeal. It’s important to take your passport with you, and if you have an immigration lawyer, you may consult with them beforehand to assist you accordingly.

Si su solicitud de apelación es aprobada, podrá continuar su estancia en Malta de acuerdo con las condiciones establecidas en la decisión.

If your appeal application is rejected, your passport will be taken by the Immigration Inspector in charge, and you will be given a receipt. You will then be required to leave the Malta within 10 – 15 days. However, you also have the right to file a further appeal before the Court of Appeal. If you wish to file a second appeal, please feel free to contact us.

Withdrawal of Appeals

To withdraw an appeal a withdrawal form needs to be completed and submitted to the Immigration Appeals Board in Valletta. One can download the form from here.

Please note that our team of immigration lawyers in Malta at Sciberras Advocates can assist you with appeals to protect your immigration status and residency in Malta. We encourage you to contact us for support on [email protected].

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), guest writer, a marketing and business administration specialist with a special focus on corporate, accounting, and legal matters.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

We would like to remind everyone that the Immigration Appeals Board (IAB) office in Valletta, is open every day from 8am to 12pm (except weekends and public holiday). Reduced hours are only valid during summer.

Furthermore, following an increasing number of work permits being refused by Identita’, the IAB issued the following note to all appellants, that they must print out the refusal letter issued by Identita’ when applying for a work permit appeal. Digital copies will not be accepted.

Please note that our team of immigration lawyers in Malta at Sciberras Advocates can assist you with work permit appeals to protect your immigration status and residency in Malta.

We encourage you to contact us for support on [email protected].

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo escrito por la Sra. Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), colaboradora invitada, es una especialista en marketing y administración de empresas con un enfoque especial en asuntos corporativos, contables y legales.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

Entry bans into the Schengen Area, can have significant consequences for travellers and immigrants. It’s important to understand, that if an entry has been issued by the Malta Immigration Police, these require to be challenged locally.

Understanding Schengen Entry Bans

Schengen entry bans are prohibitions issued by member states that prevent individuals from entering or staying in the Schengen Area for a specified period. In Malta, these bans may be imposed for various reasons, including:

• Overstaying a visa
• Violating immigration laws
• Being considered a threat to public policy or security

When issued at Maltese airports or seaports, these bans can be particularly challenging to navigate without proper legal assistance.

The Impact of Entry Bans

An entry ban can have far-reaching consequence. If you overstay in the Schengen Area, you risk:

• Deportation
• Fines
• Bans (the inability to enter Malta and other Schengen countries)
• Difficulties in obtaining future visas
• Potential impact on employment and personal relationships

Legal Recourse for Entry Bans

If you have received an entry ban from Maltese authorities, it’s necessary to understand that you have options. The most effective way to address this issue is by seeking professional legal assistance. As an experienced immigration law firm, Sciberras Advocates specialises in assisting clients who face such restrictions with entry bans. Attempting to navigate the complex process of removing or reducing an entry ban without legal expertise can be risky and often unsuccessful.

Facing a Schengen entry ban can be daunting, but with the right legal support, it’s possible to challenge these decisions effectively. Sciberras Advocates is committed to providing expert assistance to those seeking to remove or reduce entry bans issued by Maltese authorities. Our dedicated team is ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

If you’re dealing with a Schengen entry ban issued in Malta, don’t hesitate to contact Sciberras Advocates for professional, reliable, and effective legal assistance.

Please visit our webpage on immigration services in Malta: https://sciberras.legal/practice-areas/immigration-law/ and get in touch for a consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers.

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo escrito por la Sra. Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), colaboradora invitada, es una especialista en marketing y administración de empresas con un enfoque especial en asuntos corporativos, contables y legales.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

Los permisos de trabajo para nacionales de terceros países (ciudadanos no pertenecientes a la UE/EEE) en Malta se regulan a través de un sistema llamado procedimiento de Permiso Único, gestionado por Identità. Este permiso de trabajo está regulado por la Legislación Subsidiaria 217.17 y es un permiso de tipo temporal que autoriza a los nacionales de terceros países a residir y trabajar en Malta por un período determinado. Este tipo de permiso de trabajo combina una licencia de empleo y un permiso de residencia. Las solicitudes de Permiso Único pueden presentarse cuando el nacional de un tercer país aún se encuentra en el extranjero, o cuando reside legalmente en Malta o en otro estado Schengen.

Las características principales del Permiso Único incluyen:

• Es válido por un período determinado, generalmente hasta un año, y puede ser renovado.
• Está vinculado a un empleador y puesto de trabajo específicos.
• El permiso (de trabajo y residencia) caduca si la relación laboral termina.

Los empleadores en Malta se enfrentan a importantes desafíos con el proceso de solicitud de Permiso Único para nacionales de terceros países, lo que está causando problemas significativos que afectan a sus negocios. A pesar de los esfuerzos de las agencias y autoridades gubernamentales para hacer el proceso más eficiente, estos desafíos y retrasos se atribuyen generalmente al alto volumen de solicitudes y a la falta de documentación adecuada presentada en el portal de Identità. Dicha documentación insuficiente e incompleta provoca retrasos significativos en el tiempo de procesamiento.

Como un bufete de abogados experimentado en Malta especializado en derecho de inmigración y laboral, en Sciberras Advocates entendemos los desafíos que enfrentan los empleadores en Malta con las solicitudes de permisos de trabajo para nacionales de terceros países. Nuestra experiencia puede optimizar significativamente el proceso y mitigar los problemas comunes en torno al sistema de Permiso Único.

Como una de las principales causas de demoras es la documentación incompleta o inadecuada, con nuestro profundo conocimiento de los requisitos, reglas y procedimientos de Identità, aseguramos que todas las solicitudes se presenten con meticulosa atención al detalle. Esto incluye una revisión exhaustiva de los contratos de empleo, la verificación de calificaciones y certificaciones, la compilación adecuada de documentos de respaldo y más. Gracias a nuestra experiencia, podemos reducir sustancialmente los tiempos de procesamiento y evitar correos electrónicos y presentaciones innecesarias de ida y vuelta con las autoridades.

Nuestro enfoque ha resultado consistentemente en tiempos de procesamiento más rápidos para los clientes, a menudo obteniendo aprobaciones dentro del plazo oficial. Gracias a nuestras soluciones personalizadas, los empleadores pueden navegar por el complejo panorama de los permisos de trabajo en Malta con confianza, garantizando un proceso más fluido, rápido y confiable para contratar y retener valiosos empleados de terceros países.

Sciberras Advocates puede encargarse de todo tipo de solicitudes de permiso de trabajo, incluyendo:

• Permiso de Trabajo Único
• Permiso Único de Trabajo de la Iniciativa de Empleados Especialistas (SEI)
• Permiso de Trabajo Único para la Iniciativa de Empleados Clave (KEI)
• Tarjeta Azul UE – Malta

La Iniciativa de Empleados Especialistas (SEI) y la Iniciativa de Empleados Clave (KEI) son permisos de trabajo y residencia emitidos para fines altamente cualificados bajo las políticas maltesas, mientras que el permiso de trabajo de la Tarjeta Azul de la UE se emite de acuerdo con las disposiciones de la directiva de la UE relativa. Para más información sobre estos, consulte este artículo: Permisos de Residencia en Malta para Individuos Altamente Cualificados.

Para obtener asistencia con las solicitudes de Permiso de Trabajo Único, Permiso de Trabajo Único para Empleados Especializados (SEI), Permiso de Trabajo Único para Empleados Clave (KEI) o Tarjeta Azul UE de Malta en Malta, no dude en ponerse en contacto con nosotros en [email protected].

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo escrito por la Sra. Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), colaboradora invitada, es una especialista en marketing y administración de empresas con un enfoque especial en asuntos corporativos, contables y legales.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

When attending court in Malta, it’s essential to present yourself in a manner that reflects respect for the proceedings and the court environment. Appropriate attire not only demonstrates professionalism but also upholds the decorum expected in the courtroom. Below is a guide to help ensure you’re dressed suitably for court appearances and have the necessary information on the court’s location.

Dress Code for Men

Suit and Tie: A dark-coloured suit with a tie in neutral tones is encouraged.

Shirt: A white or light-coloured shirt works best for a professional look.

Shoes: Dark, polished dress shoes with matching socks are appropriate.

Avoid: Bright ties, sports jackets, jeans, and sneakers.

Dress Code for Women

Business Suit or Dress: A modest, knee-length dress or a suit with either pants or a skirt in dark colours is ideal.

Blouse: If wearing a suit, opt for a simple blouse in a neutral colour.

Shoes: Closed-toe shoes, such as pumps or flats in neutral colours, are preferred.

Avoid: Skirts that are too short, high heels over three inches, bright colours, and flashy accessories.

Court Location

The Malta Law Court – Courts of Justice is located at Republic Street, Valletta. Once you enter, you will find the Reception Desk and you may ask for directions to reach the correct court room.

Other Notes

Please ensure to bring any court notifications and documents in relation to the case with you. Please also ensure you arrive at the court building at least 20 minutes before the time of your hearing to have enough time to pass through security checks and find the correct court room.

Should you have any questions about the court dress code or location, please feel free to reach out for guidance. You may contact us on [email protected].

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo escrito por la Sra. Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), colaboradora invitada, es una especialista en marketing y administración de empresas con un enfoque especial en asuntos corporativos, contables y legales.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].

Living in a new country for work can be exciting, but it’s important for third-country nationals in Malta to know their rights and choose employers who adhere to local laws and best practices. This guide provides practical advice for employees to help them make informed decisions and protect themselves against potential workplace issues.

• Ensure you are given and check thoroughly the employment contract.
• Note well if you are a on a definite or indefinite contract.
• Be aware of your probationary period.
• Be aware of your notice period.
• Ensure you are given the payslip regularly as per law and check it well.
• Save or file your payslip safely.
• Confirm payment for overtime, Sundays, and Public Holidays.
• Check for any underpayments.
• Keep detailed timesheets to keep track your work hours, including break times and any overtime.
• Retain copies of rosters and work schedules.
• Understand your rights in case of disputes.
• Verify that Social Security Contributions are being paid by your employer.
• Maintain a record of all important communications with your employer such as appraisals and official meetings.
• Understand your right to vacation, sick leave and other types of leave.
• Know your right to safe working conditions.
• Be aware of procedures for contract termination.
• Be aware of unfair dismissals scenarios or premature termination of employment.
• Know your rights in case of redundancy scenarios.
• Be aware of employment discrimination and harassment on the workplace.
• Request for support with residence and work permit renewals.
• Request that your employer covers the work permit Identità fee.
• Connect with local employee support organisations, NGO’s and trade unions if available.

Following these tips can help you as a third-country nationals in Malta avoid workplace issues. At Sciberras Advocates, we are committed to providing expert guidance and support in all aspects of employment and immigration. If you are an employee facing challenges such as employment discrimination, workplace harassment, unfair dismissals, underpayment claims or other issues, our legal team is ready to assist you. Please contact us on [email protected].

Este artículo es solo para fines informativos y no debe interpretarse como asesoramiento legal.

Artículo escrito por la Sra. Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), colaboradora invitada, es una especialista en marketing y administración de empresas con un enfoque especial en asuntos corporativos, contables y legales.

Sciberras Advocates, fundado por el Dr. Adrian Sciberras, es un bufete de abogados con sede en Malta. La firma se enorgullece de ser multidisciplinar, innovadora y flexible para adaptarse a los tiempos cambiantes y a cualquier desafío en el panorama legal local e internacional. Sin importar las complejas demandas privadas o corporativas que se requieran, Sciberras Advocates ofrece soluciones legales prácticas y rentables para lograr los resultados deseados. Puede contactar a Sciberras Advocates por teléfono al +35627795222o por correo electrónico en [email protected].