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Malta Work Permits
Malta offers 3 work permit pathways: the Key Employee Initiative (KEI), Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) and Single Permit. KEI targets highly specialised roles, requiring a minimum annual salary of €35,000 (approx. $38,000) and promises quick processing times. SEI is designed for professionals with specific qualifications and relevant experience, offering a streamlined application process completed within 30 working days. The Single Permit is for standard employment, requiring proof that no suitable local candidates are available.
Benefits
Good Work-Life Balance & Economy
Malta’s economy has shown strong GDP growth rates of 5.6% to 12.3% per year since 2021. Local workers enjoy a good work-life balance with standard working hours of 40 hours per week and full-time workers are entitled to 24 days of paid leave and 14 public holidays per year.
Get a EU Long-Term in 5 Years
Non-EU workers may apply for EU long-term residence after 5 years of consecutive residence under the Status of Long-Term (Third Country Nationals) Regulations.
Visa-Free Travel to/within the Schengen
Residence permit-holders can fly directly to 29 Schengen countries, travel within the Schengen area without customs checks, and stay up to 90 days in other Schengen countries every 180 days.
Access to Healthcare & Education
Beneficiaries can use healthcare services across Malta with their health insurance, enjoy low-cost private and international education in Malta, and use public transport for free, both on the road and at sea.
Requirements
Key Employee Initiative
1. A valid employment contract with a Maltese employer
2. A gross salary of at least €35,000 per annum
3. Certified copies of the relevant qualifications, warrants or proof of work experience
Application Fee: ~€300
Processing Time: 1 month
Fees & Conditions
Fees
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Pay a non-refundable administrative fee of €300 per applicant
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Pay a professional fee to our partners:
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Key Employee Initiative: €2,125​
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Specialist Employee Initiative: €2,125
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Single Permit: €1,275
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Reside in suitable residential property upon approval through either rent (co-habitation is accepted), purchase or living with a local home owner
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File annual tax return every year
How we can help
Initial Consultation
Learn more about GRP and ask any questions during our initial 1-1 consultation *
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* Consultation fee will be deducted from subsequent bills if you decide to chose us as your partner and move forward with the application
Paperwork & Professional Advice
We and our partners at AE can guide prospective employers through the requirements and obligations of various work permit options. We assist in structuring employment contracts to meet criteria and offer ongoing support and advice to work permit holders, including renewal and extension of their status.
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*If you'd like to work directly with AE, feel free to use UStoMalta as a referral code to receive a $150 discount for any immigration-related service (for new clients only)
If you decide GRP is not for you, we will be happy to guide you through other residency programs available
Timeline
01
Letter of Engagement: 1 day
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Applicant signs LOE with Agent
02
Application: 2 weeks
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​Representative prepares documents and submits application. Applicant pays fees.
03
Due Diligence: 2 months
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​Residency Malta Agency (RMA) conducts background checks and issues Approval in Principle. RMA might request more supporting documents.
04
Temporary Accomodation & Insurance: 2 weeks
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Applicant finalizes temporary accommodation & insurance for Malta within 30 days upon receiving Approval in Principle
05
Biometrics: 1 day​
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RMA issues Final Approval and applicant captures biometrics in Malta
06
Long-Term Accommodation: 2 weeks
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RMA starts issuance of residence permit after applicant finalizes long-term accommodation
07
Residence Permit: 3 weeks
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RMA reviews property documents and issues residence permit