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Single Permit (Permess Uniku)

Work PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

EUR €600

Stay Duration

Varies (Renewable annually while employed)

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information

Overview

Combined work and residence authorization for third-country nationals employed by a Maltese employer, valid for a defined period and renewable.

The Single Permit (Permess Uniku) in Malta was introduced to streamline the administrative process for third-country nationals seeking to live and work in the country. It was implemented in accordance with EU Directive 2011/98/EU, which was transposed into Maltese law via Legal Notice 160 of 2014 and is regulated under Subsidiary Legislation 217.17. This permit fills the gap of having to apply for separate work and residence authorizations, instead combining them into a single, efficient application procedure that simplifies the legal framework for both the employer and the foreign worker.

This permit is designed for third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) who have secured a job offer in Malta and intend to reside there for more than six months. It is the primary route for most foreign workers across various sectors, ranging from hospitality to technical industries. A distinctive feature of the Single Permit is that it is tied to a specific employer and role; therefore, any change in employment requires a new application. The process is employer-led, meaning the company must initiate the application on behalf of the prospective employee, ensuring that the worker is legally authorized to reside and work in Malta for the duration of the permit.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Malta

Permanent Residence - EU/EEA Nationals

ValidityVaries (Lifetime residence status)

ProcessingVaries

View Visa Details

Malta

EU Long-Term Residence Status

ValidityIndefinite (residence permit issued for 5-year periods)

Processing6-12 months

View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must have a confirmed job offer from a Maltese employer.

The employer must prove the position could not be filled by a local or EU/EEA candidate (labour market test/advertisement).

Must possess relevant qualifications or experience for the role.

Must have a valid passport (at least 8 months validity).

Must secure adequate accommodation in Malta.

Must hold private health insurance with at least 100,000 EUR coverage.

Must complete a mandatory pre-departure course (for first-time applicants).

Must pass health screening (if applicable).

KEY CRITERIA

Education

bachelor or higher

Experience

1+ years

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Signed employment contract.

Position description signed by employer and employee.

Europass CV.

Proof of vacancy advertisement (Jobsplus/EURES).

Declaration of Suitability from Jobsplus.

Health insurance policy (100,000 EUR coverage).

Rental/lease agreement and Housing Authority approval.

Health screening certificate.

Pre-departure course certificate.

Full copy of passport.

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Combines work and residence authorization into a single document.
Allows legal residence and employment in Malta for the duration of the contract.
Provides a pathway to long-term residency after 5 years of legal stay.

Worth Knowing

The permit is tied to a specific employer; changing jobs requires a new application.
The employer is responsible for the majority of the application process.
Strict requirements for accommodation and health insurance.
Renewal is required annually.