Malta, a picturesque island nation located in the heart of the Mediterranean, is not just famous for its sun-kissed beaches and rich cultural heritage—it’s also emerging as a hotspot for skilled foreign workers, particularly in the booming hospitality sector.
Tourism contributes over 27% of Malta’s GDP (Source: National Statistics Office Malta), driving an ever-increasing demand for trained hotel staff.
Read Also: Latest Malta Work Visa Process
Why is Malta’s hospitality sector ideal for foreign job seekers?
- Strong demand due to growing tourism (over 3 million visitors annually)
- Visa sponsorship programs open to non-EU nationals
- Competitive wages with a relatively lower cost of living than many Western European countries
- Opportunities to gain international work experience
Hotel Positions Available with Visa Sponsorship:
Malta’s hospitality industry is vast, offering a variety of job roles catering to diverse skill sets:
| Position | Estimated Salary (€ Annual) | Basic Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Front Desk Agent | 18,000 – 24,000 | Strong communication, fluent in English, basic IT skills |
| Housekeeping Staff | 17,000 – 22,000 | Physically fit, attention to detail |
| Waiter/Waitress | 18,000 – 23,000 | Customer service skills, English proficiency |
| Chef | 25,000 – 40,000 | Culinary certification preferred, prior experience |
| Maintenance Technician | 20,000 – 28,000 | Technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities |
| Hotel Manager | 45,000 – 70,000 | Management degree + 5 years experience |
| Concierge | 22,000 – 30,000 | Multilingual, knowledge of local attractions |
| Event Coordinator | 25,000 – 32,000 | Strong organizational skills |
| Spa Therapist | 21,000 – 28,000 | Certified therapist, customer-oriented |
| Sales & Marketing Exec | 30,000 – 45,000 | Marketing background, digital marketing skills |
Source: Salary averages based on data from JobsPlus Malta & PayScale Malta.
Visa Sponsorship & Work Permit Process in Malta:
Unlike many EU countries, Malta simplifies hiring foreign workers thanks to its Single Permit Application process, combining work and residence permits.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Get a Job Offer: Secure a formal offer from a Maltese employer.
- Employer Applies for Employment License: They submit your application to JobsPlus Malta.
- Single Permit Application: Once approved, apply through Identity Malta for a single permit.
- Required Documents:
- Valid Passport
- Signed Employment Contract
- Proof of accommodation in Malta
- Health Insurance
- Passport-size photos
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) and relevant certificates
- Processing Time: Typically 4-6 weeks.
Key Benefits:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Work Visa | Work permits with sponsorship provide peace of mind and stability. |
| Social Security Access | Employees receive health coverage, pension contributions & benefits. |
| Cost of Living Advantage | Malta is more affordable than France, Germany, or Scandinavia. |
| Cultural Experience | Mediterranean lifestyle, vibrant local festivals, historical cities. |
| Professional Growth | Regular training & cross-role mobility common in large hotel chains. |
| Networking & Language Skills | Interacting with guests and staff from all over the world. |
| Travel Opportunities | Easy access to Europe, North Africa, and beyond thanks to Malta’s location. |
Duties & Responsibilities by Position:
Front Desk Agent
- Check-in/out processes
- Managing reservations
- Handling guest inquiries & complaints
- Managing billing
Housekeeping Staff
- Cleaning rooms & public areas
- Restocking amenities
- Reporting maintenance issues
Chef / Kitchen Staff
- Preparing meals per hotel menu
- Ensuring kitchen hygiene & safety
- Coordinating with waitstaff
Waiter/Waitress
- Taking orders
- Serving food & beverages
- Upselling hotel services
Hotel Manager
- Supervising all departments
- Ensuring customer satisfaction
- Managing budgets & staffing
Application Tips:
Tailor your CV:
Include hospitality experience, language skills, and certifications. Use a European CV format (downloadable here).
Prepare a Strong Cover Letter:
Highlight your adaptability, multilingual ability, and relevant work experience.
Use Trusted Job Portals:
Real Employee Testimonials:
“Moving to Malta as a concierge was life-changing. The work is dynamic, and I’ve had the chance to meet people from every corner of the globe.”
— Sarah T., Concierge at Valletta Boutique Hotel
“I secured a chef role through visa sponsorship within 2 months. The team here is incredibly supportive, and the experience has fast-tracked my career.”
— Ahmed K., Sous Chef, St. Julian’s
Malta vs. Other EU Countries for Hospitality Jobs:
| Feature | Malta | Italy | Germany |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Sponsorship | Widely available | Limited, mostly for EU | Possible but bureaucratic |
| Average Salary (€) | 18,000 – 45,000 | 20,000 – 50,000 | 25,000 – 55,000 |
| Cost of Living | Moderate | Higher in major cities | Higher overall |
| Language Barriers | English widely spoken | Italian mandatory | German mandatory |
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get a hotel job offer in Malta?
Start by searching on job portals like Jobs Plus Malta, reaching out to hotel chains directly, and networking on platforms like LinkedIn Malta.
Are Maltese language skills mandatory?
No, but fluency in English is essential, and knowledge of Italian, German, or French is preferred.
How much do hotel workers get paid?
Average salaries range from €17,000 to €45,000 depending on role and experience. Senior managerial roles can exceed €70,000 annually.
