On November 27, 2025, the government announced the latest phase of implementation of the Malta Labour Migration Policy – namely, a new requirement to complete a pre-departure course and examination for all third-country nationals seeking to work in Malta.
All applicants will undergo a Suitability Check conducted by Jobsplus. Applicants must provide documentation in the following four categories:
- Certificate of the Pre-Departure Course or the Skills Pass;
- Approval from the relevant regulatory body for regulated professions, where required;
- Recognition of qualifications from the Malta Qualifications Recognition and Information Centre (MQRIC), where applicable;
- A declaration from the employer confirming the applicant’s suitability for the specific role.
The Pre-Departure Course will cover 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 EUR 250, will be mandatory for all workers.
In sectors where the Skills Pass already applies, such as tourism, applicants must complete the second part of the Skills Pass linked to that sector. As the Skills Pass is expanded to additional sectors, the second-stage requirement will follow accordingly, with further details provided by the relevant authorities.
The Pre-Departure Course will commence on January 5, 2026 and, from March 1, 2026, the immigration authority (Identità) will only consider applications from individuals who have successfully completed the course and assessment.
Moreover, workers who have been in Malta for at least one year may have their permit renewed for more than one year, subject to conditions. Low-skilled workers will be required to undertake a training program, while a two-year extension will be granted automatically for higher-skilled roles, provided the worker has a valid employment contract.
The training program will be delivered by licensed Maltese institutions and will cover areas including Maltese culture and traditions, civic participation, legal and safety awareness, personal and professional development, and English and Maltese language learning.
Background
On January 8, 2025, the Maltese Government launched a new Labour Migration Policy for public consultation, which closed on February 9, 2025.
During 2025, 15 measures have been implemented, with an additional five being rolled out on an ongoing basis.
Among the measures implemented in recent months are the following:
- Minimum termination rates before new applications;
- Strengthened obligation to publicly advertise job vacancies;
- Restrictions preventing employers who dismissed workers unjustifiably in the previous 12 months from applying for new workers;
- Emphasis on timely submission of employment and termination forms;
- Doubling of fees for new worker applications (with exceptions in health, elderly care and disability services);
- Restrictions for employers who fail to comply with disability employment quota obligations;
- New rules for applicants who do not enter Malta with a valid work visa;
- Mandatory payment of salaries through bank deposits or electronic means.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.