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What happened?

New first-time Single Permit applicants must pay particular attention to Malta's 2026 Pre-Departure Course requirements.

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Malta introduced a mandatory Pre-Departure Course for first-time Single Permit applicants in 2026. Identità began formally verifying the certificate from 1 March 2026 for applicable New and Still Abroad applications. The course is designed to prepare incoming workers for living and working in Malta and covers subjects including workplace rights and obligations. The process includes online learning and assessment followed by verification. The official course fee is currently €250. Tourism and hospitality applicants have additional sector-specific requirements and may need both the Pre-Departure Course certificate and the applicable Tourism & Hospitality Skills Pass certification. Identità lists exemptions for certain applicants, including many people who currently hold or previously held a Single Permit, subject to the circumstances of the new application, and third-country nationals who have resided in Malta for eight years or more. Applicants should confirm their exact category before paying or applying because the requirements depend on the application route and sector.