Malta Sets New Work Permit Rules for Self-Employed Foreigners

Malta's national identity and residency authority, Identità, has published the conditions for self-employed foreign nationals to obtain work and residence permits. Applicants must first secure an Employment Licence from Jobsplus, Malta's employment agency, which is a prerequisite for submitting a residence permit application.

The application for the Employment Licence must be submitted through Jobsplus' Employment Licences Unit, with a fee of €100 for first-time applicants. Renewals also cost €100 per year, potentially covering up to three years if the Employment Licence is valid for that duration.

Malta distinguishes between self-employment and employment through a company; individuals working for a registered company are classified as employees, necessitating a Single Work Permit if they perform executive functions. The definition of self-employment is based on Subsidiary Legislation 452.108, which describes it as independent work.

Identità also provides guidance for those who lose their residence card or need to update their address.