Employment in the Republic of Malta is a dream job abroad on the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. After all, the island country attracts not only paradisiacal landscapes and tourist resorts, but also comfortable living conditions and low unemployment levels. Official employment can be the first step toward future emigration to Malta. In particular, the dynamic development of the service and tourism spheres is contributing to the steady increase in the number of labor migrants in the country. Every year in Malta, both permanent and seasonal jobs are becoming increasingly desirable for foreign workers.

Specifics of employment in Malta

The main source of replenishing the Maltese budget is tourism. After all, Malta does not have a massive industrial production, unlike many other EU countries. But its natural wealth has allowed the island state to become one of the most important tourist destinations in Europe. Therefore, the most popular types of work in the country are in the service sector and the hotel and restaurant sectors. As a result, it is easiest to find work in these industries. For more information on everything, you need to consider when planning a labor migration to Malta, see our checklist.

However, it is worth noting that holidays in Malta are considered quite prestigious. Therefore, there are many elite hotels and entertainment venues, first-class restaurants, business lounges, trendy health clubs, and beauty salons. Candidates are therefore encouraged to have certain work experience in similar fields, which will be an important asset for Maltese employers. In addition, state labor laws are quite strict for foreigners in Malta. You can usually only get a job if you are highly qualified. 

The labor market in Malta

Many Maltese establishments and resorts are particularly interested in foreign workers during the opening of the tourist season. The most available jobs for foreigners in Malta are:

• hotel manager;
• tour guide;
• waiter;
• housekeeper;
• animator;
• fitness trainer;
• salesman-consultant;
• maid;
• beauty specialist.

Sailing in Malta is greatly developed, so from time to time there are related offers for nationals from other countries. Local companies employ foreign workers to maintain yachts and marinas. Particularly in demand are positioned as mechanics, sailors, cooks, instructors, etc. The apropos positions will be a lifesaver for those who have no clue how to work abroad with no proper language skills. After all, for such jobs, employers do not require mandatory knowledge of Maltese. Basic knowledge of English is sufficient.

Good English is also not needed in the construction industry, where bricklayers, plumbers, welders, painters, etc. can find work. Also, the lack of language proficiency will not prevent professionals from finding work in the rather popular Maltese beauty salons in the country. It is enough that hairdressers, cosmetologists, eyebrow stylists, eyelash stylists, and manicurists have a certificate proving their qualifications. And it is worth noting that the average salary of specialists in beauty service centers can reach €3,000.

Work visa for Malta

For legal employment in Malta, foreign nationals must have a visa. Schengen allows entry into the country for a short period, so it will not work in this case. A national work visa is necessary. But this can only be obtained after moving to the country. So working from home outside Malta is not allowed at the initial stage. The visa is issued for up to one year, renewable. The exception is for European Union citizens, who are exempt from the work permit. The only thing is that they must register with a special department within three months of arrival.

The package of documents required for a work visa:

• photographs of a uniform sample;
• employment contract with the employer;
• proof of residence;
• medical insurance for min. EUR 30,000;
• certificate of clean criminal record;
• completed visa application form;
• receipt for payment of state duty;
• proof of professional qualifications.