Work Visa: Can You Switch from Malta to Italy?

"Yes, but you cannot directly “convert” a Malta work visa into an Italian work visa. Each EU country has its own work visa and residence permit rules. Here’s a clear breakdown:

1️⃣ What your Malta work visa allows

A Malta work visa/residence permit allows you to live and work in Malta only.

It does not automatically grant the right to work in Italy, even though both countries are in the EU (Malta is an EU member but not all EU work permits are mutually recognized for employment).

2️⃣ Requirements for an Italian work visa

To work in Italy as a non-EU citizen, you need:

Italian work permit (nulla osta): Your Italian employer must apply for authorization for you.

Work visa application: You apply at the Italian consulate in your current country of residence (or sometimes in Malta if they allow it).

Residence permit (permesso di soggiorno): After entering Italy with the visa, you must register locally.

3️⃣ Key points

Your Malta visa doesn’t transfer to Italy; it only allows you to stay in Malta.

You can apply for an Italian visa while living in Malta, but you will likely need:

A valid passport

An employment offer from Italy

Evidence of qualifications and other supporting documents

4️⃣ Practical advice

Do not overstay your Malta visa while waiting for an Italian visa — this can cause issues.

Contact the Italian embassy/consulate in Malta for exact procedures.

Some people temporarily leave the Schengen area (e.g., to their home country) to submit a new work visa application."