Essentials for International Students Studying in Malta

Thinking of studying in Malta? Beyond its sunny beaches and vibrant student life, Malta offers international students a chance to gain work experience, develop new skills, and enjoy legal protections. From visa rules and job contracts to tax and income laws, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to thrive academically and professionally while living in Malta.

Visa and Work Permit

• Student Visa: Required for non-EU/EEA students; grants legal residence for the duration of studies.
• Part-Time Work: Permitted after 90 days of residence in Malta, up to 20 hours/week.
• Work Permit: Must be applied for through Jobsplus; employer sponsorship is required.

Tip for Students: Start preparing your work permit paperwork as soon as you arrive— processing can take time, and you can only apply after your first 90 days in Malta.

Your TRC & Working in Malta

• Students are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) only after receiving their Temporary Residence Card (TRC).
• Do not expect to work during your first 3–4 months in Malta. You must have sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses during this period.
• Once you have your TRC, you can apply for jobs and register your employment with JobsPlus.
• However, your studies should remain your top priority, and attendance is mandatory at Global College Malta.

Tip for Students: Use your first few months to settle in, focus on academics, and prepare your CV and documents for future job applications.

Employment Contracts and Worker Security

• The employment contract is a legal safeguard for both employer and employee.
• It should clearly outline:
  Employment terms, roles and responsibilities
  Remuneration and benefits
  Leave entitlements (e.g., sick pay, parental leave)
  Notice periods and how terms can be changed
• In cases of dispute or breach: Mediation, legal action, arbitration, or civil courts may be involved

Tip for Students: Always ask for a written contract, even for part-time jobs—verbal agreements can be risky and are harder to enforce if problems arise.

Service Contracts

• For freelancers or contractors (e.g., via tenders or expressions of interest)
• Includes:
  o Terms of service and payment
  o Quality expectations
  o Penalties and dispute resolution clauses

Tip for Students: If you are freelancing (e.g., graphic design or tutoring), make sure you understand how a service agreement differs from a job contract—it affects your tax obligations and legal rights.

Minimum Wage & Pay

• As of 2025: ~€835/month for full-time; pro-rated for part-time work
• Employers must provide monthly payslips showing all deductions

Tip for Students: Keep copies of your payslips and contracts—they are useful for work permit renewals, tax filings, and even loan or visa applications.

Average Wage Earners Scheme

Support for students or part-time workers earning €300/week or less.

Benefits:

• €25/week grant for attending at least 4 hours/week of training
• Access to free Jobsplus courses
• Enhances job prospects and skills

Eligibility:

• Must be employed (part-time or full-time)
• Must complete Jobsplus training
• Apply within 2 months of course completion

Tip for Students: This is a great way to get certified in skills like digital marketing or customer care—check Jobsplus frequently for available courses that fit your schedule.

Personal Taxation in Malta

Part-Time Tax Rate

• Flat 10% tax on part-time earnings
• No need to declare in yearly tax return if earnings are €10,000 or less (employment) or €12,000 or less (self-employment)
• Applies to:
  o Full-time students
  o Full-time employees
  o Pensioners
• Earnings above the threshold must be declared

Tip for Students: Make sure your employer is deducting the correct 10% tax—mistakes can
lead to penalties or extra paperwork later.

What Counts as Taxable Income?

• Salary, overtime, and fringe benefits (e.g., company car, housing allowance)
• Employee share schemes (the value of shares received counts as income)
• Income from abroad if received in Malta (for non-domiciled residents)

Tip for Students: Even scholarship stipends or freelance earnings might count as taxable—
consult a student advisor or tax service if unsure.

Tax Computation & Residency

• If you are ordinarily resident but not domiciled, you are taxed on:
  o Malta-source income
  o Foreign income brought into Malta
• You are not taxed on:
  o Foreign income not brought into Malta
  o Capital gains abroad
• Tax residence is based on:
  o Spending 183+ days/year in Malta
  o Or having a “durable connection” (e.g., permanent home or center of interests)

Tip for Students: If you are planning to stay in Malta long-term or return after graduation, understanding your tax residence status now can save you money and confusion later.

References:

https://www.ccmalta.com/services/employment-contracts
https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/452/eng/pdf