The Maltese Government has introduced the Skills Pass initiative to ensure high standards within the tourism and hospitality industry. This system verifies and recognizes the skills of individuals working in Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) licensed establishments.
Whether you are a local worker, an EU/EEA citizen, or a third-country national (TCN), the Skills Pass will become a mandatory requirement by 2026. Below is a breakdown of the Skills Pass process, its requirements, and how it impacts individuals and employers.
What is the Skills Pass?
The Skills Pass is a certification program aimed at verifying the professional skills of those employed in Malta’s tourism and hospitality sector. It applies to all roles in MTA-licensed establishments, including food service, bar service, kitchen, housekeeping, and front office staff.
Once issued, the Skills Pass is permanent for a specific occupation. By January 2026, all workers in this sector—whether TCN, EU/EEA or Maltese nationals—must possess a valid Skills Pass.
Skills Pass and TCN Work Permits
For Third-Country Nationals (TCNs), obtaining a Skills Pass is an essential requirement when applying for or renewing their work permits. The Skills Pass ensures that TCNs working in Malta’s tourism and hospitality sector meet the necessary standards for their roles.
As of May 28, 2024, all TCNs in these sectors must possess a Skills Pass to process their work and residence permits. This requirement underscores the importance of completing the certification process promptly to avoid delays in securing or maintaining legal work status in Malta.
Key Dates for the Skills Pass Implementation
- March 2024: Legal notice published.
- April 2024: Launch of Phase 1 (online courses and assessments).
- May 2024: Phase 2 (online verification interviews) becomes available.
- May 28, 2024: Mandatory Skills Pass for new non-EU/EEA workers.
- January 2025: Renewal of work permits requires a Skills Pass.
- January 2026: Mandatory for all employees, including Maltese and EU/EEA nationals.
Costs of the Skills Pass
Fees for the Skills Pass depend on residency status:
- Non-EU/EEA nationals coming to Malta for work: €475
- Non-EU/EEA nationals renewing work permits: €375-€455
- Sector Skilled Workers (registered by MTA establishments): €280
- EU/EEA students and Maltese nationals: €0
Skills Pass Process
Phase 1: Online Courses and Assessments
Applicants must complete four mandatory modules within 42 days:
- English Proficiency Test
- Basic Customer Care Course
- Basic Maltese Tourism Product Course
- Basic Essential English Course
Additionally, applicants select a module aligned with their job roles, such as food service, bar service, kitchen, front office, or housekeeping.
Phase 2: Verification Interview
After Phase 1, applicants schedule a Skills Verification Interview. For those in non-standard roles, this focuses on English conversation skills.
Exemptions and Additional Roles
Workers in roles outside the standard job families (e.g., HR, accounts, marketing, or maintenance) must select the “Other” option. They will undergo an English conversation interview instead of specific skills verification.
The EU developed the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) as a translation tool to make national qualifications easier to understand and more comparable. Workers with an EQF level qualification must still complete the basic Skills Pass to receive a RED Skills Pass, with additional levels introduced later.
Changing Jobs Within the Sector
If you change your occupation within the hospitality sector, you must obtain a new Skills Pass for the new role. The cost for an additional occupation-specific Skills Pass is €107.50.
Conclusion
The Skills Pass is a crucial initiative aimed at professionalizing Malta’s tourism and hospitality sector, ensuring consistent standards and recognition for skilled workers. Whether you are a Third-Country National, an EU/EEA citizen, or a Maltese worker, understanding and complying with the Skills Pass requirements is essential to securing your position within the industry. By proactively preparing for the certification process and keeping track of key implementation dates, you can ensure a seamless transition.
At expatax.mt, we are here to support you through every step of the Skills Pass application process. From registration to exam preparation, we offer personalized assistance to make your experience smooth and stress-free. Contact us today to simplify your journey toward compliance and career advancement in Malta’s hospitality and tourism sector.
Sources
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