Beginning 1 March 2026, Malta will no longer process a first-time Single Permit application unless the applicant has successfully completed a newly introduced mandatory pre-departure program.
If you are a non-EU national planning to work in Malta for the first time, this program is now an essential part of the immigration process. Without the required certificate, your work permit application will not proceed.
The framework officially went live in January 2026, but from 1 March onward, authorities will strictly verify the program certificate during the permit assessment stage.
What Is Malta’s Single Permit?
The Single Permit allows non-EU nationals to reside and work in Malta under a combined residence and employment authorization.
It is widely used in sectors facing labour shortages, including:
- Construction
- Tourism
- Care services
- Hospitality
Under the new rules, first-time applicants must complete additional steps before submitting their Single Permit request.
The New Pre-Departure Course: What It Means
The course is designed to ensure that incoming workers:
- Can communicate in basic English
- Understand workplace rights and obligations
- Are aware of what living and working in Malta involves
The objective is straightforward: Malta wants workers to arrive informed, prepared, and fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.
Section 1: Integration Course (Mandatory for All First-Time Applicants)
All first-time applicants must complete Section 1 of the program. This includes two online modules:
- Settling and working in Malta
- Workplace rights and duties
Each module lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours and includes instructional videos, reading materials, and short assessments.
After completing both modules, applicants must attend a 20-minute verification interview. This interview evaluates:
- Basic English proficiency
- Understanding of the course content
Interviews are conducted either at ITS Malta or at approved international assessment centres.
Applicants are given 42 days to complete Section 1.
Section 2: Required for Certain Occupations
Section 2 does not apply to all applicants. It is mandatory for individuals seeking employment in regulated sectors such as:
- Hospitality
- Tourism
In these cases, applicants must complete both:
- The relevant Skills Pass requirements
- The Pre-Departure Program
These additional requirements ensure compliance with sector-specific standards under Maltese law.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
The new process follows this order:
- Register on the Skills Pass Portal
- Complete Section 1 online
- Attend the verification interview
- Receive the Pre-Departure certificate
- Submit your Single Permit application
The entire process is primarily digital, but the interview component is compulsory.
From 1 March 2026, the certificate must be presented at the time of permit assessment.
Program Cost
The total cost of the pre-departure program is €250.
Payment must be completed before starting the course.
Who Is Exempt?
Individuals who already hold a valid Single Permit are not required to complete the program.
The rule applies exclusively to first-time applicants.
Why Malta Introduced This Requirement
Malta’s economy continues to expand, unemployment remains low, and the population is ageing. The country relies significantly on foreign workers to sustain key industries.
However, concerns have emerged regarding:
- Worker exploitation
- High employee turnover
- Mismatched expectations between employers and employees
The new system aims to:
- Improve employment stability
- Protect migrant workers
- Promote smoother integration
- Align recruitment with actual labour market needs
In essence, Malta seeks to reduce misunderstandings for both employers and foreign workers.
What This Means for Future Applicants
The practical implications are clear.
The new rule may:
- Extend the overall application timeline
- Increase upfront costs
- Make English proficiency more important
For applicants with limited English skills, the verification interview could present an additional challenge.
Employers recruiting non-EU workers must now account for the additional time and cost when planning job offers.
If you are considering employment in Malta in 2026, include this requirement in your preparation timeline. Start early, prepare thoroughly for the interview, and ensure your English is strong enough for basic workplace communication. From 1 March 2026 onward, completion of this program is no longer optional.