Malta is grappling with labor shortages in 20 key occupations, according to the 2023 EURES report on workforce gaps. In response, the Maltese government is rolling out the Specialist Employee Initiative to attract highly-skilled foreign workers to the island nation.
The SEI aims to address shortages across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, food service, hospitality, business administration, and transportation. With a population of approximately 542,051 as of 2022, Malta increasingly relies on international talent to fill these critical positions.
Key Occupations in Demand
The EURES report highlights a range of roles facing significant shortages in Malta, such as:
– Messengers, package deliverers, and luggage porters
– Manufacturing laborers
– Building construction laborers
– Cleaners and helpers in offices, hotels, and other establishments
– Car, taxi, and van drivers
– Security guards
– Healthcare assistants
– Childcare workers
– Shop sales assistants
– Bartenders and waiters
– Accounting and bookkeeping clerks
– Contact center information clerks
– Bookmakers and croupiers
– General office clerks
– Chefs
– Administrative and executive secretaries
– Office supervisors
– Business services and administration managers
– Managing directors and chief executives
The SEI provides an avenue for skilled professionals from developing countries who may not qualify for Malta’s Key Employee Initiative but have the relevant qualifications for available jobs. To be eligible, foreign nationals must secure a job contract with a Maltese-registered company.
In addition to the SEI, the Malta Employers Association underscores the importance of foreign workers in supporting Malta’s logistics industry. MEA President Joanne Bondin emphasized at a recent National Forum that both EU and non-EU nationals are vital to filling employment gaps and driving economic growth.
“Foreign workers have been instrumental in addressing employment shortages in the logistics sector, helping companies meet growing demand and contributing to overall economic development,” Bondin said.
Foreign workers from non-EU countries must obtain a visa to work in Malta. This includes various work permits such as the single permit, key employment initiative, and EU Blue Card.
The SEI and other initiatives reflect Malta’s strategic approach to bolstering its workforce and accommodating its evolving economic needs.
