Malta Labour Migration Policy

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Related insights:

RESIDENCY Applying for residence in Malta

Any EU, EEA or third country national who resides in Malta for more than 3 months is obliged to apply for a Residence Permit. There are various grounds upon which an applicant may apply to require a residence permit

01 Oct 2019

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Malta is entering a new chapter in its approach to labour migration. On 1 August 2025, the first set of measures under the newly issued Malta Labour Migration Policy will come into effect, reshaping how foreign nationals live and work on the island. Whether you're an employer, legal advisor, or HR professional, these changes are time-sensitive and highly relevant to your operations.

What's Changing?

The policy, published by Identita' Malta, introduces a more structured and strategic framework for labour migration. The Policy shall in turn seek to strike an equitable balance between effectively responding to real labour market needs for third-country nationals and safeguarding workers' rights, while also promoting broader social goals.

Its objectives include:

Aligning Malta's migration practices with economic and labour market needs
Ensuring fair and transparent procedures for foreign workers
Strengthening compliance and enforcement mechanics

The accompanying Fact Sheet offers practical guidance, highlighting updates to residence permits, employment licensing, and sector-specific rules.

Key Dates to Remember

1 August 2025: First set of policy measures officially come into force.

This means businesses and professionals must act quickly to understand the implications and prepare accordingly.

Why This Matters to Your Business

These policy changes are more than procedural; they mark a significant shift in how foreign talent is managed in Malta. For businesses and professionals, this means:

Adapting HR and recruitment practices to meet updated compliance standards
Reassessing timelines and requirements for residence and employment permits
Ensuring your workforce planning remains uninterrupted and future-proof

Being informed now will help you stay agile, avoid delays, and maintain continuity in a competitive talent market.

How We Can Help You

Understanding policy is one thing, implementing it smoothly is another. At Grant Thornton Malta, we offer a multi-disciplinary approach to support your business through these changes. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the new migration framework, with tailored services that suit your business' needs. We're here to help you adapt, comply, and thrive in this evolving landscape.

Whether you're navigating the new rules for the first time or need tailored support for your workforce, our team is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

You can access the official documents for further details: Malta Labour Migration Policy - June 2025 and Fact Sheet

Malta Labour Migration Policy

What's Changing?

Key Dates to Remember

Why This Matters to Your Business

How We Can Help You

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Malta Labour Migration Policy

What's Changing?

Key Dates to Remember

Why This Matters to Your Business

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