After Graduation in Malta 2026: From Student to Work Permit
A Malta study permit does not automatically convert into permission to stay and work after your course ends. Non-EU graduates who want to remain in Malta need to find an employer willing to sponsor a work permit, typically the Single Permit, before their study permit expires.
Plan your transition before your study permit expires
The transition path
- Finish your course and confirm your graduation date — your study permit is tied to your enrolment, so plan around its expiry date.
- Search for a job — focus on Malta-based employers willing to sponsor non-EU workers. See the job search guide for sectors and platforms.
- Receive a job offer — the employer must be registered in Malta and willing to go through the Single Permit application process for a Third-Country National (TCN) employee.
- Employer applies for the Single Permit — this combines work and residence authorisation into one application submitted by the employer through Identità Malta, with a Jobsplus labour market check.
- Switch from study permit to Single Permit — once approved, your residence basis changes from study to employment. See the Single Permit guide for fees, timelines, and required documents.
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Sectors with demand for international graduates
| Sector | Notes |
|---|---|
| iGaming and online gaming | Major employer of international graduates, especially in IT, compliance, and customer support roles |
| Information technology | Strong demand for software development, QA, and IT support |
| Financial services | Banking, fintech, and fund administration roles, often requiring relevant degrees |
| Hospitality and tourism | Year-round demand; the Skills Pass may apply for certain roles |
| Education and language teaching | Opportunities at English language schools for graduates with relevant qualifications |
Last verified: 2026-06-09.
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Salary and bank account requirements
Once employed under a Single Permit, your salary must be paid into a Maltese bank account, in line with Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) rules for Third-Country National employees. Open a Maltese bank account as soon as your job offer is confirmed — this is typically required before the Single Permit application can be finalised.
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If you do not find a job before your study permit expires
If your course ends and you have not secured a job offer, your legal basis to remain in Malta ends with your study permit unless you have another valid status (for example, enrolling in a further course, or a family-based permit). Overstaying a permit can affect future visa and permit applications, including in other Schengen countries. Contact Identità Malta directly if your circumstances change near your permit expiry date.
For students considering a longer-term path beyond a single job — including family reunification or long-term residence after several years of legal employment — see the long-term residence guide.
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MaltaPathway is not a law firm, immigration consultancy, or government agency. The information on this page is based on publicly available official sources and is provided for informational purposes only. Immigration rules change — always verify with the relevant authority before making decisions. If your case is complex, consult a licensed immigration lawyer.