Malta Faces Labor Shortages in 20 Top Occupations

- Manufacturing laborers not elsewhere classified

- Building construction laborers

- Cleaners and helpers in offices, hotels, and other establishments

- Car, taxi, and van drivers

- Security guards

- Healthcare assistants

- Childcare workers

- Shop sales assistants

- Bartenders

- Waiters

- Accounting and bookkeeping clerks

- Contact center information clerks

- Bookmakers, croupiers, and related gaming workers

- General office clerks

- Chefs

- Administrative and executive secretaries

- Office supervisors

- Business services and administration managers not elsewhere classified

- Managing directors and chief executives

Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI)

The SEI offers an alternative for highly-skilled nationals from developing countries who do not qualify for the Key Employee Initiative but possess the relevant academic or technical skills required for job offers in Malta. To be eligible, these foreign nationals must have a signed contract with a Maltese-registered company.

Role of Foreign Workers

The Malta Employer Association (MEA) considers foreign workers vital for the country's logistics industry. At the 2023 National Forum hosted by MEA, president Joanne Bondin emphasized the essential role of foreign workers in supporting and boosting economic growth. She noted that both EU and non-EU nationals have filled employment gaps in the logistics sector, enabling companies to meet the increasing demand for their services.

Visa Requirements for Foreign Workers

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa to live and work in Malta but must register with the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs within three months of arriving. Citizens from non-EU countries, however, need a visa to work in Malta. The Maltese authorities offer three types of work permits:

- Single permit: For non-EU nationals who have an employment offer in Malta.

- Key Employment Initiative (KEI): For highly-skilled workers with job offers in Malta, providing a fast-track application process.

- EU Blue Card: For highly-qualified non-EU nationals who have a job offer in Malta, which includes a higher salary threshold.

Conclusion

With a population of approximately 542,051 as estimated in 2022, Malta relies heavily on foreign workers to fill job vacancies across various fields. The introduction of the Specialist Employee Initiative and the emphasis on foreign workers highlight Malta's strategy to attract and retain highly-skilled labor to sustain and grow its economy.

How to Join the Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) in Malta

The Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) aims to attract highly skilled third-country nationals who possess relevant academic or technical skills but may not be eligible for the Key Employee Initiative. To join the SEI, follow these steps:

1. Secure a Job Offer

- Find Employment: You must secure a job offer from a Maltese-registered company. Ensure that your qualifications and skills match the requirements of the job.

- Signed Contract: Obtain a signed employment contract from your prospective Maltese employer.

2. prepare Required Documentation

Gather the necessary documents to support your SEI application. Typical documents include:

- Valid passport: A copy of your valid passport.

- Employment Contract: A signed contract from your Maltese employer.

- proof of Qualifications: Certificates and transcripts proving your academic or technical qualifications.

- Work Experience: Evidence of your previous work experience, such as letters of reference.

- police Clearance: A recent police clearance certificate from your country of residence.

- Medical Clearance: A health certificate stating you are fit to work.

3. Application Submission

- Identita Agency: Submit your application to Identita, the agency under the Maltese government managing the SEI.

- Application Form: Complete the SEI application form, which can be obtained from Identita or their website.

- Supporting Documents: Attach all required documents to your application form.

4. pay Application Fees

- processing Fee: pay any applicable fees for processing your SEI application. Check Identita's website or contact them directly for the latest fee information.

5. Wait for Approval

- Application Review: Identita will review your application and supporting documents.

- Decision Notification: You will be notified of the decision. If approved, you will receive an SEI approval letter.

6. Visa Application (if applicable)

If you are from a non-EU country, you will need to apply for a visa to enter and work in Malta.

- Visa Application: Submit your SEI approval letter along with other required documents to the nearest Maltese consulate or embassy.

- Visa Fee: pay the applicable visa fee.

- Interview: Attend an interview if required by the consulate or embassy.

7. Arrival in Malta

- Residence permit: Upon arrival, apply for a residence permit at the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs within three months.

- Registration: Register with the local authorities as required.

8. Start Working

- Begin Employment: Once all formalities are completed, you can begin your employment under the SEI in Malta.

Additional Information

- Support: For assistance, you can contact Identita or the Malta Employer Association (MEA).

- Updates: Regularly check the official websites of Identita and the Maltese government for any updates or changes to the SEI program.