How to get a construction job in Malta as a non-EU worker

Key Takeaways

• You need a job offer first — the employer applies for your single permit, not you.
• The permit is linked to that employer and that job.
• Check the Target Location on each listing: some roles are only open to Malta residents or EU citizens.
• Proven trade experience, clear documents and good basic English make your application much stronger.
• Never pay anyone for a job offer or a work permit.

Can non-EU citizens work in construction in Malta?

Yes. Malta's construction and finishing companies regularly recruit skilled trades from outside the EU when they cannot find enough workers locally. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can start work without a permit, so employers often prefer them for urgent roles, but many vacancies are open to third-country nationals — especially experienced carpenters, gypsum and drywall installers, steel fixers, shutterers and finishing specialists.

Each of our construction jobs in Malta shows a Target Location in the job details. Examples include "Residents in Malta & Europeans" or "EU & Latin America nationals". If your nationality is not covered, your application is unlikely to go forward for that role — focus on the ones that match.

Step by step: from application to your first day on site

1. Choose matching roles. Read the requirements and Target Location, and apply only where your experience fits.
2. Apply with a clear CV. List the trades you have worked in, the types of projects, the tools and materials you know, and how many years of experience you have. Photos of finished work help.
3. Interview. Interviews are usually online for candidates abroad. Expect practical questions about your trade and, sometimes, a request for videos or references.
4. Job offer. If the employer wants to hire you, you receive an offer that states the job, salary and conditions.
5. Single permit application. The employer submits the application to Identità. You provide the documents requested — typically your passport, CV, evidence of experience or qualifications and any other papers the authorities ask for.
6. Approval and travel. Once the permit is approved you can travel, complete any remaining formalities in Malta and start work.

Processing times vary with the season and the number of applications, so plan for several weeks to a few months between the job offer and your start date.

Documents and certificates to prepare

• A valid passport with plenty of time before it expires.
• An up-to-date CV in English with your trade, years of experience and past employers.
• Reference letters or contact details from previous employers.
• Any trade certificates, training records or licences you hold (for example for plant or heavy machinery).
• Photos or short videos of your finished work.

Malta's Building and Construction Authority (BCA) runs a skills card scheme for construction workers. Ask your recruiter whether your trade needs one and how it will be arranged — requirements can change, so always confirm with the employer or the authorities rather than relying on what other workers tell you.

What to expect when you arrive

A full-time construction week in Malta is normally 40 hours with early starts, and average weekly hours including overtime are capped at 48 unless you agree to work more. Summers are very hot, so employers organise work to manage heat stress. You will receive a site safety induction and must wear the protective equipment provided. English is widely used on Maltese sites, so basic English for safety instructions is important.

Before accepting, make sure you understand the salary, hours, overtime rules and whether accommodation or transport is included. You can compare the offer with the real figures in our construction worker salary guide.

How to avoid job scams

• Be careful with anyone who asks you to pay for a job offer, a contract or a work permit.
• Check that the employer or agency is real and based in Malta, and that the job appears on their official website or careers page.
• Do not send original documents by post unless an official authority asks for them.
• If an offer sounds too good to be true — very high pay with no experience needed — treat it with caution.