New mandatory pre-departure course required for all TCNs applying for a single permit
TCNs will need to complete new course before coming to Malta to obtain a work permit. All first-time applicants must present a valid pre-departure course certificate. The course will be set on modules to follow national integration standards, covering essential elements including basic English language skills, cultural awareness, hygiene and basic conduct, rights and obligations in the workplace, respect for civil rights, among others.
Applicants will be required to sit for an assessment, and only those who pass may proceed to apply for work in Malta. Passing the test is the first step in the application process. The test, which will cost €250, will be mandatory for all workers and will be delivered through the Skills Pass platform. Following the assessments, applicants must attend a live online interview to verify both their English language proficiency and their understanding of the course content.
Certain occupations, such as tourism and hospitality linked jobs where the Skills Pass already applies, will require another sector-specific training.
The full process can be initiated online through the Skills Pass Portal. The portal officially opens on the 5ta of January 2026, with Identità beginning verification of the full course certificates as part of the single permit application process starting on 1st of March 2026. The cost for this course will be €250.
New course to integrate in Malta for TCNs
Third-country nationals will need to take part in a 20-session course to integrate in Malta if they wish to renew their work permit for more than one year. The course, approx. 40 hours long, will be delivered by licensed Maltese institutions.
Topics include Maltese culture and traditions, civic participation, legal and safety awareness, personal development including personal budgeting, rights and responsibilities as tenants and language learning (English/Maltese). Those who successfully complete this integration course will also be eligible for an extension of their renewal period.
Jobsplus to handle TCNs’ suitability check for employment
In addition to the new mandatory courses, applicants will undergo a suitability check by Jobsplus. This will be based on criteria such as the verification of the required Skills Card, recognition of qualifications by the Malta Qualifications Recognition and Information Centre (MQRIC) where applicable, and a declaration of suitability that must be signed by the employer.
Certain TCNs can renew work permit for more than one year
To promote retention, employees who have completed a year of employment in Malta may renew their work permits for more than one year if specific requirements are met. Those in higher-skilled occupations may receive a two-year renewal if they have an employment contract of at least two years. Applicants in lower-skilled occupations may also receive a renewal of up to two years, if they have a contract of at least two years.
Single Permit Directive changes on the protection of worker rights
Regarding the protection of worker rights, the Single Permit Directive is being amended to strengthen enforcement against worker exploitation. Maltese authorities will have the power to disqualify employers from applying for third-country workers in case they are found to have breached workers’ rights. Employers are not allowed to receive any financial compensation from workers in relation to recruitment or termination, as this would be in breach of the law.
We encourage employers and third country nationals employees to contact us for support on [email protected].
Cet article est à titre informatif seulement et ne doit pas être interprété comme un avis juridique.
Article rédigé par Mme Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), rédactrice invitée, est une spécialiste du marketing et de la gestion d'entreprise avec un accent particulier sur les questions d'entreprise, comptables et juridiques.
Sciberras Advocates, fondé par Dr Adrian Sciberras, est un cabinet d'avocats basé à Malte. Le cabinet s'enorgueillit d'être multidisciplinaire, innovant et flexible afin de répondre aux évolutions et aux défis du paysage juridique local et international. Quelle que soit la complexité des demandes privées ou d'entreprise, Sciberras Advocates propose des solutions juridiques pratiques et rentables pour atteindre les résultats souhaités. Vous pouvez contacter Sciberras Advocates par téléphone au +35627795222ou par courriel sur [email protected].
