Den pre-arrival integration course has become the latest major update for TCNs in Malta. What a year it has been, with several significant changes introduced since August and followed by additional updates in October. After weeks of discussion and preliminary announcements, the government has now officially confirmed the next measure. As we are wrapping up 2025, it is clear that the mandatory course will start on 5 January 2026 for all new third-country nationals applying for a first-time single permit. With these changes moving into place, both applicants and employers should prepare for a more structured and compliance-focused process.
Important Timing Update
The course becomes available from 5 January, but the strict enforcement begins shortly after. As from 1st of March 2026, new single permit applications will not be accepted unless the applicant has already completed the integration course.
This means applicants must finish the course before submitting their application, so timing and early preparation are now essential.
What the Integration Course Involves
The confirmed course costs €250 and requires 20 hours of participation. All first time single permit applicants will need to complete it before their permit can be approved. The programme includes:
- Video modules
- Reading material
- Short assignments
- A final assessment
- A live online interview
The training covers basics of English, Maltese culture, basic laws, workplace expectations, hygiene, workers’ rights and general norms of living and working in Malta.
Why The Course is Being Introduced
The government’s objective is to ensure that new arrivals understand the country they are moving to, the rights and responsibilities that apply under Maltese law and the standard expectations within the local labour market. By completing the course before arrival, applicants gain a clearer understanding of the working environment, while employers benefit from better prepared candidates.
Summary of New Single Permit Application Costs for First-Time Applicants
With the new reforms coming into force between 2025 and 2026, the cost of obtaining a first-time Single Permit in Malta is increasing. Below is a clear breakdown of the typical expenses a new third country national should expect when applying for their initial permit.
| Cost Item | Amount | Noter |
|---|---|---|
| Single Permit Application Fee | €600 | New fee structure effective from August 2025 |
| Mandatory Integration Course | €250 | Starts 5 January 2026; from 1st March 2026 applications will not be accepted without the certificate |
| Annual Health Insurance Policy | €180-€200 | Minimum €100,000 medical cover commonly required |
| Lease Attestation | €50-€80 | Legal verification of the rental contract |
| Vaccinations (sector-specific) | €20–€80 per vaccine | Required mainly in healthcare, elderly care, childcare and food-handling roles. |
| Medical Checks and Certificates | €15–€25 per certificate | GP letters, fitness-to-work declarations or lab tests |
| Sector-Specific Skills Pass (Tourism/Hospitality only) | €475 | Required for new applicants entering these sectors |
| Miscellaneous Document Costs | Varies | Passport copies, notarisation, translations if requested |
Bemærk: Amounts are approximate and may vary based on employer requirements, healthcare providers, specific sector obligations and individual circumstances.
3-minutters guide: Hvad TCN'er skal vide om ny arbejdsmarkedslovgivning
Preparing for the New Application
Malta’s updated framework for third country nationals marks a clear shift toward a more regulated and standards-driven migration system. With the introduction of the pre-arrival integration course, new cost structures and stricter pre-application requirements, both applicants and employers will need to plan more carefully than before. The focus is now on preparedness, documentation accuracy and meeting all obligations before the Single Permit application is submitted. As these measures take effect in early 2026, understanding the timelines and budgeting for the full process will be essential.
If you need assistance or encounter any difficulties with the new requirements, feel free to kontakt os.
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