27/11/2025
Think before you apply Malta
Malta will require all third-country nationals seeking to live and work on the island to pass a mandatory pre-arrival integration test before travelling, ministers Ian Borg and Byron Camilleri announced on Tuesday.
During a press conference at Identità’s headquarters in Msida, the ministers unveiled the new Pre-Departure Course, part of Malta’s updated Labour Migration Policy. The goal, they said, is to ensure that only qualified workers who are prepared to understand and respect Maltese society are granted entry.
The course, which will cost €250, will cover basic English, life in Malta, cultural norms, hygiene standards, workplace rights and obligations, and civil rights. Officials noted that the programme aims to help newcomers better integrate and adapt from the outset.
The Pre-Departure Course will launch on 5 January 2026. From 1 March, Identità will only process work and residence applications from individuals who have successfully completed it. Passing the course is only the first step, as applicants will still be required to undergo a suitability assessment by Jobsplus.
A new training programme was also announced for third-country workers who are already residing in Malta.
