Work Permit Malta

With the implementation of Directive 2011/98/EU, Malta introduced the unified application procedure for a combined residence and work permit. A Maltese work permit is required for all individuals who wish to reside and take up employment in Malta and who are not nationals of the EU/EEA/Switzerland. The individual work permit is granted to the applicant for work with a specific employer and for a specific activity. A work permit is usually issued for a period of one year, and during this time the applicant can reside and work in Malta. The applicant can extend their work permit if the employer supports their application for further extension. A work permit can be obtained for any type of work and by any applicant, as long as the applicant meets the requirements. However, for highly specialized third-country nationals, there is also the option to apply for an individual work permit under the Key Employee Initiative. This initiative offers an expedited service, and after each renewal, the permit can be extended for another three years instead of one year. For an applicant to apply under the Key Employee Initiative, the salary of the highly qualified employee must be at least €30,000 per year. The time frame for issuing a work permit in Malta is usually about two to three months. If the applicant applies for the work permit while legally residing in Malta, they will receive a provisional residence permit for Malta until the work permit is properly issued. If the application for the work permit is submitted while the applicant is still abroad, the applicant will receive an invitation letter after the application has been duly reviewed by Identity Malta. This allows the applicant to travel to Malta to personally submit the rest of the application.