Malta is increasingly becoming an attractive destination for highly skilled Third-Country Nationals (TCNs) seeking employment in various sectors. The Key Employment Initiative (KEI) and Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) are two programs that offer fast-track work permits for qualified individuals in technical, managerial, and specialist roles. These initiatives aim to help employers in Malta find the talent they need while offering TCNs an efficient route to securing employment in the country.
KEY Employment Initiative (KEI)
The Key Employment Initiative (KEI) is designed for highly skilled or managerial Third-Country Nationals who have already secured a job offer in Malta. This initiative allows for a faster processing route, reducing waiting times and administrative burdens for eligible applicants.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the KEI, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Salary Requirement: The applicant must have an annual gross salary of at least €35,000 per year.
- Qualifications and Work Experience: Applicants must provide certified copies of their relevant qualifications, warrants, or proof of work experience directly related to the job offered in Malta.
Work Permit Details
- Initial Residence Permit: Approved applicants will be issued a residence permit valid for one year in the initial year. After the first year, the residence permit can be renewed for a longer period, up to three years.
- Renewal Requirements: To renew the permit, applicants must present:
- A valid employment contract (either definite or indefinite).
- The original annual tax declaration form, stamped by the Inland Revenue Department in Malta.
Application Process & Fees
The processing time for KEI applications is typically five working days, provided all required documentation has been submitted. An application is considered submitted only once all the necessary documents, as per the applicable checklist, are submitted online. The administrative process follows the same steps as the regular Single Permit but is fast-tracked for those applying through KEI. The application fee for the KEI is €300. This fee must be paid at the time of submission.
Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI)
The Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) is another fast-track work permit option, designed for highly skilled TCNs who may not meet all the eligibility criteria for the KEI but still possess the necessary skills and qualifications for their roles.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SEI, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Salary Requirement
- Minimum annual gross salary of €25,000.
Qualifications & Experience (Choose One)
- Option 1: MQF Level 6 or higher qualification related to the job.
- Option 2: Lower MQF level qualification plus three years of relevant experience.
Proof of Experience
Applicants must provide one or more of the following:
- Employment contracts signed by previous employers.
- Certified employment history from an official employment authority.
- Reference letters from past employers specifying job roles and tenure.
Application Process & Fees
Application fee: €300 per year.
The application follows the KEI model with fast-track processing.
Comparison Between KEI and SEI
Both the Key Employment Initiative (KEI) and Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) provide fast-track routes for Third-Country Nationals seeking employment in Malta. However, there are key differences between the two programs
| Criteria | SEI (Special Employment Initiative) | KEI (Key Employee Initiative) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time & Fees | Fast-track processing; €300 per year | Fast-track processing; €300 per year |
| Salary Requirement | Minimum €25,000 annual gross salary | Minimum €35,000 annual gross salary |
| Qualifications | MQF Level 6 or higher, or equivalent with 3 years of relevant experience | Certified qualifications and work experience directly related to the job |
| Target Roles | Specialist employees who meet the criteria | Highly skilled or managerial roles |
Highly Qualified Persons (HQP) Scheme
The HQP Scheme offers a flat 15% tax rate for highly skilled professionals working in key industries such as financial services, gaming, aviation, and technology.
Eligibility Criteria
- Salary Requirement: Minimum annual gross salary of €100,061 (2025 threshold).
- Employment in Eligible Sectors: Applicant must work for a company licensed or recognised by the Maltese authorities.
- Work Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a relevant sector.
- Employment Contract: Must be subject to Maltese law and cover genuine work in Malta.
- Health Insurance & Residency: Adequate health coverage and suitable accommodation in Malta.
HQP Tax Benefits & Duration
Flat 15% tax rate on employment income up to €5 million (excess is tax-exempt). EEA/Swiss nationals are granted a residence permit for 5 years, extendable twice for an additional 5 years each, while third-country nationals receive a 4-year permit, extendable twice for another 4 years each.
Conclusion
Malta offers several attractive work permit schemes for highly skilled Third-Country Nationals. The KEI and SEI provide streamlined access for professionals in managerial and specialist roles, while the HQP Scheme offers substantial tax benefits for high-income professionals in key industries. Each scheme has its own advantages depending on salary, qualifications, and sector. Other visa routes can take up to two months to obtain; these schemes are another example of how Malta is fast-tracking employment for qualified roles in key sectors.
Expatax Malta is here to simplify the process further, guiding you through every step with expertise to ensure a hassle-free experience. With the right support, Malta can become your gateway to personal and professional growth.
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