The rules of the game for workers in Malta have changed as these are always dynamic and constantly evolving, so if you want to have a successful career on the island you need to be updated on the latest developments. labour regulations in Malta the government has done for non-European workers on the island.
At Boom Studies we are your best ally in the process of going to study abroad. In this article we will tell you all the information you need to make your job search and stay in Malta a success.
On the new qualification card for 2024
The Maltese government has launched a new proposal that aims to require all non-European employees seeking work in the tourism and hospitality industry to attend several courses before entering the island to obtain a card certifying that they are qualified for work in the sector.
These courses will be delivered by the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) and will focus on English language skills, basic customer service and knowledge of the Maltese tourism product.
At Boom Studies we have an agreement with this entity as we are an MTA licensed agency, and the latter will be in charge of issuing these cards.
How will it work?
The proposal indicates that all potential employees must complete the relevant online courses in order to apply. Upon passing the courses, applicants can move forward with their work permit registration with IdentityThe government agency responsible for the management of citizens' identity and the implementation of migration processes.
If the applicant's work permit is issued by Identità, the applicant must schedule an appointment with ITS three weeks prior to arrival in Malta, in order to present for in-person assessments. The assessments must be carried out within three working days of arrival in Malta.
It should be noted that this proposal is still awaiting approval or rejection. From Boom Studies, we will keep you informed so that you can study and work in Malta with peace of mind and security.
Malta is looking for skilled workers
The Maltese government states that industries require skilled workers, therefore, a skills card is the first step to ensure that this is achieved and this measure is an initiative to achieve this as the main objective is to ensure that people aspiring to work on the island possess the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to provide a high quality service.
Although it only applies to the tourism sector, it is a sign of the government's efforts to increase the number of skilled workers on the island and the growth of the population. The increase in the number of migrants has put pressure on the country's infrastructure, including housing and traffic.
In addition, home affairs minister Byron Camilleri told the media that the government will be closely monitoring the effects of the changes to implement similar requirements in other industries. If you want to read the official news, please visit here.
On the changes to Jobsplus
Jobsplus is the national employment agency in Malta. It is focused on meeting the needs of the labour market by connecting potential employees with job opportunities while meeting the needs of employers in the country. As a migrant or international student you can make use of this platform to find employment on the island.
Another way in which the Maltese government is tackling the problem of unskilled workers is to make a change in the way Jobsplus conducts its labour market tests, as before Identità grants a permit, Jobsplus must carry out an assessment. Previously the agency only looked at whether all the paperwork was in order, but now that has changed, and it is looking at whether certain jobs are really needed for the country's economy.
On employment contracts in Malta
Before you embark on that journey and build your career in Malta you should know the following about working in Malta:
- Working in Malta always involves the formalisation of an employment contract, which must be accompanied by a written statement detailing the terms and conditions of employment. This process must be completed within a maximum of 7 days from the date of employment.
- When starting your job, it is important to establish an initial period to evaluate performance. In most cases, skilled jobs have a probationary period of six months, but in technical, executive, administrative and managerial positions, with salaries more than double the national minimum wage, this period could be extended up to a year.
Note that during the first month, either party can terminate the employment contract without notice, while after the first month, one week's notice is required during the probationary period.
- Recent trends in the Maltese market show that fixed-term contracts are becoming more and more common both in managerial positions and among skilled workers on projects. Please note that specific regulations are in place.
Types of contracts in Malta
We tell you what are the two types of contracts in Malta, you can read more in detail here here.
Contractual agentsThis type of contract is issued to workers performing manual, administrative or support tasks. They are usually temporary contracts.
Permanent officials: This type of contract has more benefits such as basic salaries with annual adjustments, further training, welfare-to-work initiatives, among others.
Build your career in Malta
If you aspire to work in Malta and achieve success in your professional career, it is essential to strengthen your academic background. At Boom Studies, we are committed to guiding you in this process by collaborating with educational institutions on the island that offer a variety of higher education programmes, such as MBAs and Master's degrees, among others. This support will enable you to develop a highly qualified profile in tune with the demands of the Maltese market. Focusing on developing your professional profile and investing in your academic training allows you to be aligned with the new labour regulations and increase your chances of building a career in Malta.
