Working in Malta

The island country of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily and north of Libya. It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with more than 450,000 people covering the island.

Malta’s capital is the historic city of Valletta, while the most populated centre is Birkirkara, which is home to about 25,000 people.

The country is a popular tourist destination for Europeans and North Africans. It has very warm weather during the summer months when its pristine coastline can be enjoyed by visitors.

The Working Holiday program between Australia and Malta was setup to encourage cultural exchange and closer ties between the two countries by allowing young people to have an extended holiday funded by short-term employment.

Under the arrangement, Australians aged between 18 and 30 are allowed to travel to Malta for a working holiday for up to 12 months.

Malta’s Working Holiday visa summary

Visa: Working Holiday
Age: 18 to 30
Length of stay: 12 months
Application fee: $60
Processing time: 6-8 weeks

Requirements / Eligibility for a Working Holiday in Malta

If you want to travel to Malta under Working Holiday arrangements there are basic eligibility requirements. These include, but are not limited to:

•     Hold an Australian passport
•     Meet health and character requirements
•     Be aged between 18 and 30 at the time of applying
•     Have no dependent children accompanying you
•     Have a return ticket, or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare
•     Have sufficient funds for the first part of the holiday (at least $4500)
•     Must not work as an entertainer or sports person.

Emergency

Emergency numbers
Police / Ambulance / Fire            112

Australian High Commission, Malta
Ta’ Xbiex Terrace
TA’ XBIEX
Telephone: + 356 21338201
Facsimile:   +356 21344059
Email aushicom@onvol.net
website: www.malta.embassy.gov.au

Income tax in Malta is paid through a progressive system, which varies for singles, married couples and parents.

The tax rates for singles are as follows:

Income (€)                                      Rate                            Deduct
0 – 8,500                                          0                                  0
8,501 – 14,500                               15%                             1275
14,501 – 19,500                             25%                             2725
19,501 – 60,000                             32%                             4090
60,001 and over                            35%                             5890

Bank Account

Opening a bank account as an expat in Malta usually requires several pieces of documentation, including: passport, proof of employment and proof of address. Each bank account will usually include a debit card, the option to open a savings account and more.

The major banks in Malta include: Bank of Valetta and Central Bank of Malta. Many foreign banks are also found in Malta, such HSBC, the largest institution in the country.

Working in Malta

The main industry in Malta is tourism and as an English speaker it may benefit tourists to pursue employment in this area. Other industries which have thrived in Malta include electronics, ship building, construction and food and beverages. English is widely spoken in Malta, but providing tuition in the language may be another job opportunity for expats in the country. Qualifications are likely to be required for expats wanting to teach English.