Do Emirati nationals need a visa to work in Malta?

Emirati nationals can enter Malta visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period), but a Single Permit is still required to work legally.

What permit do Emirati nationals need to work in Malta?

All third-country nationals need a Single Permit to work in Malta. The application is submitted by your employer to Identità Malta. Since 1 March 2026, first-time applicants must also complete the pre-departure orientation course.

By Nationality

Malta Work Permit Guide for Emirati Nationals

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

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-free entry

Emirati nationals can enter Malta without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days). However, a Single Permit is still required before you can start working. Visa-free entry does not authorise employment.

Key Notes for Emirati Workers

UAE nationals can enter Malta and the Schengen Area visa-free for short stays, but still require a Single Permit to work legally.

Being visa-exempt does not allow you to start working without a permit — the Single Permit process still applies in full.

Many workers based in the UAE who move to Malta come from other nationalities and hold UAE residency — if that is your case, your permit requirements are based on your passport nationality, not your UAE residency.

Pre-departure course completion is mandatory for first-time Single Permit applicants (since 1 March 2026).

Malta has a growing professional community with connections to the UAE, particularly in iGaming, fintech, and remote work sectors.

Common Sectors in Malta

iGamingFinancial ServicesIT & TechHospitalityRemote Work

Small direct community; significant number of UAE-based workers relocating to Malta.

Consular Services

Embassy of the UAE (Rome) — Official website ↗

The Standard Process for All TCN Workers

Employer submits Single Permit application

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

Single Permit guide →

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 →

Skills Pass (if hospitality/tourism)

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

Skills Pass guide →

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.

Family Reunification→Family Members Policy→