Malta
Malta in Need of Foreign Workers: These Are the Top 20 In-Demand Jobs. Malta is currently experiencing significant labor shortages, prompting the government to seek foreign workers to fill crucial roles across various sectors. As revealed by the 2023 EURES report on shortages and surpluses, Malta is facing a critical shortage in 20 occupations, with sectors like manufacturing, construction, healthcare, food service, and hospitality among the most affected.
In response to these challenges, Malta recently launched an initiative to attract highly skilled workers from abroad. This move underscores the importance of foreign labor in supporting and boosting the nation’s economic growth. With a population of 542,051, as estimated in 2022, Malta heavily relies on foreign workers to fill job vacancies that cannot be met by the local workforce alone.
For those considering a move to Malta, this presents a significant opportunity. Foreign nationals with the right qualifications are more likely to secure employment in the country, particularly in the sectors experiencing the most acute shortages.
Top 20 In-Demand Jobs in Malta
According to the latest EURES report, the following roles are in high demand:
- Messengers, package deliverers, and luggage porters
- Manufacturing laborers not elsewhere classified
- Building construction laborers
- Cleaners and helpers in offices, hotels, and other establishments
- Car, taxi, and van drivers
- Security guards
- Health care assistants
- Child care workers
- Shop sales assistants
- Bartenders
- Waiters
- Accounting and bookkeeping clerks
- Contact center information clerks
- Bookmakers, croupiers, and related gaming workers
- General office clerks
- Chefs
- Administrative and executive secretaries
- Office supervisors
- Business services and administration managers not elsewhere classified
- Managing directors and chief executives
Interestingly, Malta has not reported any surplus occupations, highlighting the widespread nature of these labor shortages.
Malta’s Initiative to Attract Highly-Skilled Workers
To address these labor gaps, the Maltese government has introduced the Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI), aimed at attracting highly skilled third-country nationals who may not qualify for the Key Employee Initiative but possess the necessary academic or technical skills for job offers in Malta. This initiative is available only to those with a signed contract from a Maltese-registered company.
The Malta Employer Association (MEA) has also emphasized the crucial role of foreign workers in the logistics industry. At the 2023 National Forum, MEA President Joanne Bondin highlighted how both EU and third-country nationals have filled vital employment gaps, enabling companies to meet the growing demand for their services and supporting Malta’s economic development.
Visa Requirements for Working in Malta
For those considering employment in Malta, visa requirements vary. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa to live and work in Malta, though they must register with the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs within three months of arrival. However, nationals from other countries will need a visa to work in Malta. The Maltese authorities offer three types of work permits: the single permit, the Key Employee Initiative, and the EU Blue Card.
