Malta : Job market

Malta joined the EU in 2004, but under the terms of a seven-year transitional agreement, it is entitled to give priority to Maltese workers over other EU nationals. As part of a safeguard against an influx of foreign workers, Malta kept its work permit scheme. EU nationals still have to apply for work permits and need to have an offer of employment to work in the country. To gain a role, you must have a skill or training that is lacking in Malta.

What are my chances of getting a job?

• Typical problems encountered: Restrictions on foreign labour mean that employment is hard to find and it is particularly difficult to secure a job from outside the country. Even EU nationals can only get a work permit if they already have an offer of employment.
• How to improve your chances: Generally speaking, there are too many applicants for too few jobs, so you will improve your chances if you have experience and speak other languages.
• Language requirements: Maltese is the country’s mother tongue and Maltese and English are the joint official languages. Italian is also widely spoken. It is easier to find work if you speak and write Maltese. Maltese language classes are widely available on the island, or, if you want to learn the language before you leave, a self-study course is available through Eurotalk Interactive .

Where can I work?

• Major industries: tourism and service industries, IT, manufacturing (semi-conductors, electronics, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods), merchant shipping and ship building and repair.
• Recent growth areas: tourism, film-making, IT, betting and gaming.
• Shortage occupations: experienced IT professionals.
• Search for companies: Yellow Pages (Malta) , Malta Trade Directory, Malta Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise, Malta Employers, Malta Enterprise.
• Major cities: Valletta (capital), Sliema.

What's it like working in Malta?

• Average working hours: generally 40 hours per week, with a legal maximum of 48 hours, of which eight must be paid as overtime. Hours are often 8.30am to 5.30pm with a long break for lunch/siesta.
• Holidays: 25 days plus 14 public holidays.
• Tax rates: income tax rates are 15%-35%, depending on income, with a tax-free allowance of €8,500 for residents. For non-residents, rates are 20%-35%. See the Government of Malta  for more details.
• Working practices: Maltese business people generally have a conservative approach to business protocol. Punctuality is expected and appreciated and dress must be smart.