New Pre-Departure Course for Third-Country Nationals in Malta from 2026

Starting 5 January 2026, all third-country nationals (TCNs) applying for a first-time single permit to work in Malta must complete a mandatory €250 pre-departure course before arrival. This new requirement is part of Malta’s broader labour migration overhaul, designed to ensure better integration, compliance, and workforce stability.

What Will This Pre-Departure Course Cover?

The course lasts 20 hours, divided across two modules:

• Living & Working in Malta: Introduction to Maltese culture, lifestyle, and workplace norms
• Rights & Obligations at the Workplace: Employment rights, responsibilities, and legal protections

Applicants must complete the course within 42 days of enrolment. After finishing the coursework, participants will face a written test and a 20-minute live online interview to assess English language proficiency and understanding of the material.

Additional Training for Specific Sectors

For certain sectors such as hospitality and tourism additional sector-specific training will also be required on top of the general course. This will ensure that workers entering high-demand industries meet the established skills and safety standards.

Extended Integration Course for Lower-Skilled Roles

Beyond the Malta pre-departure course 2026 requirement, there is also a more extensive integration course for TCNs in lower-skilled roles. This course lasts 40–42 hours (a mix of online and in-person delivery) and covers:

• Maltese culture and language
• Tenant rights
• Budgeting and financial management
• Civic participation and community integration

Completion of this extended course may enable permit renewals for two years or more, instead of the standard one-year renewal. This will incentivise participation and support longer-term workforce stability.

What This Means for Employers and Recruitment Agencies

These changes have direct implications for your hiring and workforce planning:

• Pre-arrival compliance is now non-negotiable. All first-time applicants must complete training before arrival; there are no exemptions.
• Recruitment timelines will lengthen. Factor in the 42-day course completion window when planning new hires.
• Documentation accuracy becomes critical. Correct course enrolment, test results, and interview confirmation must be in place before permit approval.
• Coordination with training providers is essential. Work with approved course providers to ensure seamless enrolment and scheduling.
• Workforce strategies must adapt. Plan hiring further in advance, and communicate timelines clearly to prospective candidates.

Looking Ahead

These measures are part of Malta’s updated Labour Migration Policy, aiming to create a more skilled, integrated, and compliant workforce. Employers who adapt early will find smoother recruitment processes and more engaged, better-prepared employees.

For questions about how these changes affect your recruitment strategy or to discuss compliance support, contact us at compliance@recruitinmalta.mt or call +356 7704 8437.