Malta Immigration Glossary

A combined work and residence authorisation issued by Identità Malta for third-country nationals employed in Malta.

A mandatory online orientation programme for first-time Single Permit applicants, effective from 1 March 2026.

A sector-specific training and certification programme, currently required for tourism and hospitality workers.

The formal EU-framework route for bringing family members to Malta, requiring stable resources and accommodation.

Malta's ex-gratia (discretionary) policy for family members, separate from Family Reunification.

A permanent status for third-country nationals after five years of legal and continuous residence in Malta.

Malta's integration programme. Since 15 June 2026 it offers only the 100-hour Cultural Orientation course (previously Stage 2), which counts towards long-term residence.

The Maltese government agency responsible for residence permits, identity documents, and immigration services.

A person who is not a citizen of an EU/EEA member state or Switzerland.

The process required when a Single Permit holder wants to switch to a different employer in Malta.

The process of extending your Single Permit. Identità accepts renewals up to 90 days before expiry, and only while the current permit is valid.

Malta's national employment agency responsible for employment licences, labour market testing, and the Skills Pass programme.

The requirement that a licensed Maltese employer must sponsor and submit the Single Permit application on your behalf.

A card issued by Identità Malta that gives Single Permit holders access to free public healthcare in Malta.

Malta's public transport smart card used for bus travel across Malta and Gozo.

Malta's main public hospital, providing emergency and specialist healthcare services.

An orientation course that may be required for permit renewals, taken after arriving in Malta.

A national long-stay visa required by some nationalities to enter Malta for work, issued before travel.

The physical ID card issued to Single Permit holders, serving as proof of legal residence in Malta.

The Department of Industrial and Employment Relations — handles worker complaints and employment disputes.