Single Permit (Permess Uniku)

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.