By Nationality
Malta Work Permit Guide for Kenyan Nationals
What Kenyan nationals need to know about working in Malta — the Single Permit process, mandatory courses, and practical tips specific to workers from Kenya.
General guidance
Visa Requirement
Visa requiredKenyan 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 Kenyan Workers
Kenyan nationals require a national visa (Type D) before travelling to Malta for work — this is arranged alongside the Single Permit application.
Kenya is a significant source country for Malta's care, hospitality, and domestic work sectors.
Pre-departure course completion is mandatory before your Single Permit is issued (since 1 March 2026).
If you work in tourism or hospitality, the Skills Pass is also required on top of the pre-departure course.
Documents from Kenya must be authenticated by the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs before use in Malta.
There is no Kenyan embassy in Malta — the nearest is the Kenya High Commission in Rome.
What makes Malta different for Kenyan workers
Kenyan workers moving to Malta have two practical advantages that ease the process: Kenya is a Commonwealth country where English is an official language (Malta's business language is English), and Kenyan healthcare and care qualifications are generally strong and respected. The most significant obstacle for Kenyan applicants is the absence of a Kenyan embassy in Malta — all consular services are handled by the Kenya High Commission in Rome, which adds friction for passport renewals and emergency documents during your stay. Budget time for Rome-based consular dealings.
Frequently Asked Questions — Kenyan Workers in Malta
Are there care sector jobs available for Kenyan workers in Malta?
Yes. Malta's elderly care and home care sectors are the primary employers of Kenyan workers, and demand is consistently high. The sector has active recruitment pipelines and established Kenyan worker communities. If you have a nursing or care qualification, verify recognition with the Malta Health Regulatory Board (MHRB) before you travel, as recognition is not automatic.
Do Kenyan documents need authentication for Malta?
Kenyan educational and professional certificates must be authenticated by the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs before use in Malta. Some documents, particularly for healthcare roles, may also need verification from the issuing institution or Kenyan professional body. Kenya is a Commonwealth country and uses English-language documents, which simplifies the certified translation step for most applicants.
Where is the nearest Kenyan embassy to Malta?
Kenya does not have an embassy in Malta. The Kenya High Commission in Rome handles consular services for Kenyan nationals in Malta, including passport renewals and emergency travel documents. Contact the Rome High Commission well in advance of any passport expiry — allow 6–8 weeks for renewals.
Common Sectors in Malta
Growing East African community, particularly in care and domestic work.
Consular Services
Kenya High Commission (Rome) — 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 Kenyan Nationals Typically Live
Based on community presence, transport, and proximity to common workplaces. Rent, character, and practical details for each area.
Practical Guides for Life in Malta
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