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Malta Work Permit Guide for Bangladeshi Nationals

What Bangladeshi nationals need to know about working in Malta — the Single Permit process, mandatory courses, and practical tips specific to workers from Bangladesh.

General guidance

This page combines Malta-wide permit requirements with nationality-specific notes. Immigration rules can change — always verify with Identità Malta and your employer before acting.

Visa Requirement

Visa required

Bangladeshi nationals need a Schengen Type D (national) visa to enter Malta for the purpose of employment. This visa is separate from the Single Permit and must be obtained from the relevant Maltese embassy or consulate before travel.

Key Notes for Bangladeshi Workers

1.

Bangladeshi nationals form a visible community in Malta, primarily in hospitality and retail.

2.

The Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) in Bangladesh may need to process your departure.

3.

Pre-departure course completion is mandatory before your Single Permit is issued (since 1 March 2026).

4.

If you work in tourism or hospitality, the Skills Pass is also required.

5.

Banking and SIM registration will require your residence card — plan for initial weeks without full access.

What makes Malta different for Bangladeshi workers

Bangladesh is one of Malta's significant labour source countries, with a visible community concentrated in Msida, Gżira, and Ħamrun. Most Bangladeshi workers are in hospitality, retail, and food services. Two things to know early: the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) in Bangladesh may require you to register your employment contract before departure, and practical items like a SIM card and basic banking will require your Maltese residence card — plan to manage without full banking access for the first 4–6 weeks after arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions — Bangladeshi Workers in Malta

Do Bangladeshi workers need BMET clearance before going to Malta?

The Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) in Bangladesh requires workers going abroad on employment contracts to register their contract through the Smart Card system. Whether your contract must be BMET-cleared before departure depends on your specific employment arrangement. Check with your employer or a licensed recruitment agency in Bangladesh — doing this correctly protects your rights as an overseas worker.

Where do Bangladeshi nationals apply for a Malta work visa?

Malta does not have its own embassy in Bangladesh. After your Identità Malta permit is approved, you apply for the Schengen Type D national visa through the Italian Embassy in Dhaka. Processing times typically run 4–8 weeks.

How do Bangladeshi workers manage banking when they first arrive?

Opening a Maltese bank account requires your residence card (issued by Identità Malta after you arrive). This can take several weeks to arrive after you land. In the meantime, many Bangladeshi workers in Malta use Revolut — it opens online quickly without needing a residence card — as a bridge account for receiving salary payments.

Is there a Bangladeshi community in Malta?

Yes. The Bangladeshi community is well-established in central Malta, particularly in Gżira, Msida, and Ħamrun. Community networks, mosques, and informal social groups are active and frequently help newly arrived workers find accommodation and settle in during the first weeks.

Common Sectors in Malta

HospitalityRetailFood ServicesConstruction

Established community, especially in central Malta (Msida, Gżira, Ħamrun).

The Standard Process for All TCN Workers

1

Employer submits Single Permit application

Your employer applies to Identità Malta on your behalf. You cannot apply yourself.

Single Permit guide
2

Complete the pre-departure course

Mandatory since 1 March 2026 for all first-time applicants. Taken online before travelling to Malta.

Pre-departure course guide
3

Skills Pass (if hospitality/tourism)

Additional sector-specific training required on top of the pre-departure course.

Skills Pass guide
4

Arrive and settle in Malta

Healthcare entitlement card, bank account, transport, housing — the practical steps.

Living in Malta guide

Bringing Your Family

Once you hold a valid Single Permit, you may be eligible to bring your spouse, children, or dependants to Malta. Malta has two different family routes — they are not the same.

Where Bangladeshi Nationals Typically Live

Based on community presence, transport, and proximity to common workplaces. Rent, character, and practical details for each area.

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