Jobs in Malta with Visa Sponsorship: 2026 Guide

Finding jobs in Malta with visa sponsorship is a popular route for non-EU workers looking to enter the European labor market. At SeasonalJobsInEurope.com, we help you find safe, legal employment while avoiding common scams. To ensure your application is handled by verified professionals, we recommend starting your journey with MEUSEPF.org (Mediterranean & European Seasonal Employment Protection Foundation) and EUSEPS.org (European Seasonal Employment Protection Scheme). These platforms provide the oversight needed to protect foreign workers from exploitation.

Inferred nationality: India, Philippines, or Nigeria (based on high search volume for Maltese sponsorship from these regions).

Understanding Malta's Visa Sponsorship System

Malta uses a "Single Permit" system, which combines your work and residence permit into one application. For most foreign workers, the employer must prove they could not find a suitable candidate within the EU before hiring from abroad. This is known as the labor market test, managed by Jobsplus.

In 2026, the Maltese government continues to prioritize specific initiatives to attract talent:

• Single Permit (Standard): The most common route for hospitality, construction, and healthcare roles.
• Key Employee Initiative (KEI): A fast-track service for highly specialized workers with a minimum annual salary of €35,000 (Source: Identità Malta).
• Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI): For professionals with relevant qualifications and a job offer of at least €25,000 (Source: Identità Malta).
• Seasonal Work Permit: Valid for up to 9 months for roles in tourism or agriculture.

Top Industries Hiring Foreigners in Malta

Malta has a high demand for labor across several sectors. If you are looking for jobs in Europe for foreigners with visa sponsorship, Malta offers some of the most accessible entry points.

Industry	Common Roles	Estimated Monthly Pay (Net)	Sponsorship Difficulty
Hospitality	Waiters, Chefs, Housekeeping	€1,100 - €1,500	Moderate (High Demand)
Healthcare	Nurses, Care Workers	€1,800 - €2,500	Low (Fast-track available)
Construction	Laborers, Electricians	€1,200 - €1,700	Moderate
iGaming/IT	Support, Developers	€2,200 - €4,500	Low (High Sponsorship)

Note: Pay rates are estimates based on 2025-2026 market trends and the national minimum wage, which is approximately €925-€1,000 per month for 2026 (Estimate based on Eurostat trends).

The Application Process for 2026

To start, you must first secure a job offer. Maltese employers must initiate the application through the Identità (formerly Identity Malta) online portal. Here is the typical timeline:

1. Job Offer: Receive a signed contract and a position description.
2. Employer Application: The employer submits the Single Permit application while you are still abroad.
3. Approval in Principle: If successful, you receive a letter allowing you to apply for a D-Visa at a Maltese embassy or VFS Global center.
4. Travel & Final Permit: Once in Malta, you visit Identità to give biometrics and receive your physical residence card.

Processing times currently range from 2 to 4 months. Rejections often happen due to incomplete documentation or if the employer fails the labor market test. Using platforms like EUSEPS.org can help you verify that your employer is legitimate before you pay any fees.

Worker Rights and Safety

It is vital to know your rights. Some agencies may try to charge illegal "recruitment fees." Under Maltese law, workers should not pay for their jobs. If you encounter issues, refer to our Worker Rights: Unpaid Wages & Contract Breaches Guide. Always check with MEUSEPF to ensure your contract meets European standards for safety and fair pay.

FAQ: Working in Malta

How much does a Malta work visa cost?

The application fee for a Single Permit is €280.50, usually paid to Identità. There may be additional fees for visa processing at the embassy level.

Do I need to speak Maltese?

No. English is an official language in Malta and is the primary language used in business, tourism, and the iGaming sector. However, basic English proficiency is usually required for visa approval.

Is accommodation provided?

For seasonal roles in hospitality, some employers provide housing, but it is not guaranteed. You must show proof of a valid lease or a declaration of host to get your final permit.

When is the best time to apply?

For tourism roles, apply between January and March to start work for the summer season. See our Seasonal Calendar by Country for more details.