August 01 2025 14:14:50 by
PCLMedia
On January 8, the Government of Malta introduced a new
Labour Migration Policy for public consultation, which concluded on February 9. This updated framework is designed to modernise and strengthen Malta’s approach to labour migration in line with the country’s current and future social and economic needs.
At the heart of the new policy is a
worker-centred approach, aiming to strike a fair balance between addressing genuine labour market demands for Third-Country Nationals (TCNs) and safeguarding workers’ rights, while supporting broader social objectives.
Implementation of the policy begins in 2025, with the first set of measures coming into effect on
1 August, and additional measures to follow in
October.
Changes Effective from 1 August 2025
1. Job Vacancy Requirements Before Hiring Third-Country Nationals
Starting 1 August 2025, employers who wish to hire TCNs — whether applying from abroad or already in Malta applying for their first single work permit — must:
*
Advertise the job vacancy on a relevant local media platform for
a minimum of three (3) weeks within the
two (2) months prior to submitting a complete application.
* The job advertisement must clearly show the
publication date.
* Applications that do not meet this requirement will be considered
ineligible.
Exemptions
*
Reduced Advertisement Requirement (2 weeks):
Applies to TCNs eligible under the
Key Employment Initiative (KEI),
Specialist Employment Initiative (SEI), the
EU Blue Card Directive, or roles listed in the
Skilled Occupation List.
*
Full Exemptions Apply To:
* Roles in
healthcare or
care for the elderly or persons with disabilities
*
Student workers under Subsidiary Legislation 212.18 or those in structured placements from accredited institutions
* Applicants recommended by
Malta Enterprise,
Civil Aviation Directorate,
Gaming Malta, or other relevant authorities
*
Sportspersons
Important Note:
From 1 August 2025, employers must provide proof that the vacancy was advertised for the required duration within the last two months.
2. Updated Residence Permit Application Fees
Also effective 1 August 2025, application fees for residence permits will be updated as follows:
| Application Type | New Fee (€) |
| First-time Single Permit | 600 |
| Permit Renewal (per year) | 150 |
| Change of Employer | 600 |
| Change of Designation | 300 |
* In cases of
business transfer, the
Change of Employer fee applies.
* For roles in
healthcare and
elderly/disability care, all fees will be capped at
€150.
* Fees currently below this threshold will remain unchanged.
* A complete fee schedule will be published through a legal notice.
3. Revised Salary Thresholds for KEI and SEI
New minimum annual gross salaries are set for:
*
Key Employment Initiative (KEI): €45,000
*
Specialist Employment Initiative (SEI): €30,000
4. Extended Grace Period for Terminated TCN Workers
Amendments to Subsidiary Legislation 217.17 will introduce a
grace period for Single Permit holders whose employment is terminated:
*
Initial Period: 30 days to remain in Malta and secure new employment
*
Extension: An additional 30 days (maximum 60 days), subject to proof of financial self-sufficiency
This change, effective
from 1 August 2025, aims to enhance workforce retention and streamline administrative processes.
For more details and legal notices as they become available, please refer to official government channels or contact Identità.