Malta Work Visa: Different Types and Categories Explained

"Types of Work Visas in Malta

Malta offers several types of work visas and permits depending on the nature and duration of employment. These visas are primarily managed through Identity Malta and Jobsplus, the country’s employment and residence authorities.

1. Single Permit (Work and Residence Permit)

Most common type for foreign workers

Purpose: Allows non-EU nationals to live and work in Malta legally under one combined permit.

Validity: Usually issued for 1 year, renewable annually.

Applied by: The employer on behalf of the foreign employee.

Requirements:

Valid job offer from a Maltese employer

Employment licence from Jobsplus

Proof of accommodation, health insurance, and clean police record

Processing Time: Around 4–8 weeks.

Note: You can only work for the employer mentioned in your permit.

2. Key Employee Initiative (KEI)

For highly skilled professionals

Purpose: Fast-track permit for professionals earning a higher salary or in a managerial or technical role.

Eligibility:

Annual gross salary of at least €30,000

Valid job contract

Relevant qualifications or experience

Processing Time: Around 5 working days (very fast).

Validity: 1 year, renewable.

Benefits: Quick processing, work and residence combined, and easier renewals.

3. EU Blue Card

For highly qualified non-EU nationals

Purpose: Allows highly skilled workers to live and work in Malta and other EU countries.

Eligibility:

University degree or equivalent qualification

Employment contract with a salary at least 1.5 times the average gross salary in Malta

Validity: Up to 2 years, renewable.

Benefit: Easier mobility within the EU after 18 months.

4. Intra-Corporate Transferee (ICT) Permit

For employees transferred within multinational companies

Purpose: For managers, specialists, or trainees moving to a Maltese branch of their foreign employer.

Eligibility:

Must have worked for the company for at least 3 months before transfer

Valid transfer contract

Validity:

Up to 3 years for managers/specialists

1 year for trainees

Benefits: Allows movement within EU branches of the same company.

5. Seasonal Work Permit

For short-term or temporary employment

Purpose: For workers employed in seasonal sectors like hospitality, tourism, or agriculture.

Validity: Up to 9 months.

Requirement: Valid job offer and return commitment after the work period.

6. Startup Residence Programme

For entrepreneurs and business founders

Purpose: For foreign nationals who want to set up and operate a business in Malta.

Eligibility:

Viable business plan

Minimum investment capital

Proof of financial stability

Validity: Initially for 3 years, extendable to 5 years.

Benefit: Includes family reunification and potential path to long-term residence.

7. Nomad Residence Permit

For remote workers (not traditional employees)

Purpose: Allows non-EU nationals to live in Malta while working remotely for a company outside Malta.

Eligibility:

Work remotely for a foreign employer or own a foreign-registered business

Minimum monthly income of €3,500

Validity: 1 year, renewable.

Note: Does not allow local employment in Malta."