Overview
What is the Malta Skills Pass?
The Skills Pass (sometimes searched as “Skill Pass”) is Malta’s sector-specific
training and assessment pathway for non-EU/EEA/EFTA nationals who want to work in
the tourism and hospitality industry. It sits alongside the mandatory
Pre-Departure Course introduced under Malta’s updated labour migration framework.
Together, these certificates are typically required before
Identità Malta
can process a Single Permit application for eligible hospitality roles.
HotelJobsInMalta.com helps you find employers and vacancies — we do not issue permits or Skills Pass certificates.
Who needs it
Who must complete the Skills Pass?
Usually required
- Non-EU nationals new to Malta’s tourism & hospitality sector
- Roles in hotels, restaurants and MTA-licensed establishments
- Front office, F&B service, culinary, housekeeping (operational roles)
- Workers changing from a non-hospitality job into hospitality
Often exempt (confirm officially)
- Accounts, marketing & HR
- Stores / stock roles
- Cleaners & kitchen porters (listed exemptions)
- Some candidates already holding valid permits (temporary rules may apply)
If your job title is unclear, email
info@skillspass.org.mt
before paying fees or booking interviews.
Step by step
The full process (candidate & employer)
-
01
Pre-Departure Course (everyone)
Complete the mandatory Pre-Departure Course via the official portal. This is the first step for all third-country nationals planning to work in Malta.
-
02
Skills Pass Phase 1 — online modules
Complete tourism & hospitality online learning and assessments. Keep your certificates safe — you will need them for the permit application.
-
03
Employer advertises the vacancy
Before hiring a third-country national, employers must advertise the role on Jobsplus and EURES for the required period under Maltese rules.
-
04
Single Permit application with Identità
Applicants still abroad typically submit Phase 1 documentation with the application. After Approval in Principle, Phase 2 (in-person interview) must be completed before travel where applicable.
-
05
Start your hospitality job in Malta
Once permits are in order, use HotelJobsInMalta.com to discover verified employers and apply to live vacancies across Malta.
Documents
What to prepare before you apply
- Valid passport and personal details
- Pre-Departure Course certificate
- Skills Pass certificate(s) for your phase
- Signed job offer / contract details from a licensed employer
- CV showing relevant hospitality experience
- Proof of vacancy advertising (employer-side via Jobsplus / EURES)
For employers
Hospitality employers hiring from abroad
Hotels and restaurants must verify that candidates hold valid Pre-Departure and Skills Pass
certificates before submitting Single Permit applications. Plan lead time for training, interviews,
and Identità processing — especially for candidates still outside the Schengen area.
Post your vacancy on HotelJobsInMalta.com to reach international hospitality talent, then follow
official Maltese compliance steps for third-country hires.
Register as an employer
FAQ
Common questions
Is Skills Pass the same as a work permit?
No. The Skills Pass proves sector readiness. Your employer still applies for a Single Permit through Identità Malta. Both are part of the legal process.
How much does it cost?
Fees are set by the official Skills Pass programme (Pre-Departure Course and Skills Pass phases are separate paid steps). Check skillspass.org.mt for current pricing.
I already work in Malta — do I need Skills Pass?
Some existing permit holders may be temporarily exempt when changing roles. Rules change — confirm with Identità Malta and the Skills Pass team before switching into hospitality.
Where do I find hotel jobs after certification?
Browse hospitality jobs in Malta on HotelJobsInMalta.com. Create a free profile and apply directly to verified employers.
Official resources
Trusted external links
