By Nationality
Malta Work Permit Guide for Chinese Nationals
What Chinese nationals need to know about working in Malta — the Single Permit process, mandatory courses, and practical tips specific to workers from China.
General guidance
Visa Requirement
Visa requiredChinese 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 Chinese Workers
Chinese nationals require a national visa (Type D) before travelling to Malta for work.
Pre-departure course completion is mandatory before your Single Permit is issued (since 1 March 2026).
Chinese nationals in Malta work across IT, trade, hospitality, and professional services.
Document authentication from China typically requires notarisation plus legalisation by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or apostille.
The Chinese Embassy in Valletta can assist with consular matters.
Malta and China have maintained diplomatic and economic ties; some Chinese-owned businesses operate in Malta.
What makes Malta different for Chinese workers
Chinese nationals have one significant practical advantage over most TCN source countries: China maintains an embassy in Valletta. For consular services — passport renewals, notarisations, emergency documents — Chinese nationals in Malta can access these locally rather than travelling to Rome. For document authentication, Chinese documents are not covered by the Hague Apostille Convention; legalisation goes through the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which requires a notarisation step first. Allow 4–6 weeks for the full chain.
Frequently Asked Questions — Chinese Workers in Malta
Is there a Chinese embassy in Malta?
Yes. China maintains an embassy in Valletta, which is uncommon for TCN source countries. Chinese nationals in Malta can access consular services locally — including passport renewals, authenticated copies of documents, and emergency travel assistance — without travelling to Rome.
How do Chinese workers authenticate documents for Malta?
China is not a party to the Hague Apostille Convention. Chinese documents must first be notarised by a Chinese notary public, then authenticated by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. After that, the document may need further authentication by the Maltese embassy or a designated Schengen representative in China. Allow 4–6 weeks for the full legalisation chain. Start as soon as you receive a job offer.
What sectors employ Chinese nationals in Malta?
IT and software development are the primary professional sectors, alongside trade, financial services, and hospitality. China and Malta have maintained diplomatic ties since 1972, and there is a small but established Chinese business community in Sliema and Valletta. Some Chinese professionals are also active in iGaming and digital services.
Common Sectors in Malta
Moderate professional and business community.
Consular Services
Embassy of China (Valletta) — Official website ↗
The Standard Process for All TCN Workers
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 Chinese 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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