New Pre-Departure Course Requirement for TCNs

• Mandatory Pre-Departure Course for all TCNs applying for a first-time Single Permit from 1^st March 2026;

• Course composed of 2 modules; (i) ‘Living and Working in Malta’ and (ii) ‘Rights and Obligations at the Workplace’;

• The TCN would be required to complete a final assessment, per module; and attend an interview to assess proficiency of the English language;

• Applicable to first-time Single Permit applicants.

• TCNs holding a valid Single Permit before 1^st March 2026 are exempt from this requirement;

• The Pre-Departure Course costs €250;

• TCNs working in specific sectors, such a hospitality and tourism, would also be required to obtain a Skills Pass.

From 1st March 2026, any non-EU/EEA/Swiss national (a third‑country national – “TCN”) applying for a Single Permit for the first time must complete a Pre‑Departure Integration Course before the employer can file his/her application. This means that employers will only be able to submit a new Single Permit Application once the candidate finishes the course and presents the official certificate.

This rule forms part of the Government’s Labour Migration Policy and aims to ensure that incoming workers are ready for life and work in Malta. The course gives TCNs a basic understanding of daily life in Malta, essential Maltese and English phrases, and the key rights and responsibilities expected at the workplace.

The course is delivered fully online through the SkillsPass platform and is made up of two modules, each requiring about 10–12 hours to complete:

• Module 1: Living and Working in Malta
• Module 2: Rights and Obligations at the Workplace

After each module, the applicant must pass a 30‑minute test. Once both tests are completed, the applicant must also attend a short live interview (around 20 minutes) to confirm their English communication ability.

Employers should note that applicants have 42 days to complete both modules and assessments from registration. The full course fee is €250, which is non‑refundable.

This course forms only the first step for new Single Permit applicants. For certain sectors — for example, the hospitality and tourism sector — TCNs must also complete a sector‑specific training course and obtain a Skills Pass before they can proceed with the submission of their Single Permit Application.

TCNs already holding a valid Single Permit before 1st March 2026 do not need to take this course.