Malta KEI Work VISA Process for Skill Shortage Jobs 2025

Malta, a rapidly growing EU member state, continues to face skill shortages in multiple key industries. To address this, the country has introduced the Key Employee Initiative (KEI) — a fast-track work and residence permit for highly skilled third-country nationals.

This guide provides an accurate, expert-backed breakdown of the KEI Visa process, eligibility, required documents, benefits, and key tips for successful applications.

What is the KEI Work Visa?

The Malta Key Representative Activity (KEI) is a fast-track work and home leave program that is specifically designed for highly talented remote professionals. The program is available to third-country nationals, who are citizens of non-European Union countries, who have been advertised for business in Malta in positions that are difficult to fill locally.

The KEI Visa simplifies the process of hiring the necessary laborers for employers, particularly in cases where there is a shortage of individuals with the necessary skills or experience in Malta. Simultaneously, it provides foreign specialists with a legal avenue to reside and work in a European nation that is both socially prosperous and secure.

This visa is substantial for a year and may be extended provided that the business continues to operate. Additionally, individuals may submit applications for permanent residency or long-term residency after residing in a legal residence for an extended period.

Check Also: Sweden EU Blue Card Work Visa – How to Apply

Why Malta Needs Foreign Talent

Malta has a small population and a booming economy driven by sectors such as IT, finance, gaming, and healthcare. As local talent struggles to meet demand, the Maltese government uses programs like KEI to attract qualified professionals and remain competitive in the global market.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for the KEI Visa in 2025, applicants must:

• Be a third-country national (non-EU/EEA/Swiss)
• Have a valid job offer in a highly skilled role
• Earn a minimum annual gross salary of €35,000 (subject to official updates)
• Possess qualifications or relevant work experience for the role
• Have clean police conduct
• Hold comprehensive health insurance
• Submit a valid passport and supporting documents

Benefits:

1. Faster Visa Processing

The KEI (Key Employee Initiative) offers expedited processing, often completed within 5–10 working days, allowing skilled professionals to relocate quickly.

2. Access to High-Demand Jobs

The program is designed for critical skill shortages in Malta—especially in sectors like ICT, finance, healthcare, engineering, and gaming—increasing your chances of employment.

3. Eligibility for High-Skilled Roles

Aimed at professionals with specialized qualifications and experience, the KEI visa helps you land well-paying, high-responsibility roles.

4. Pathway to Residency

After legally working and residing in Malta for a certain period (typically 5 years), you may become eligible for long-term residency or citizenship.

5. Family Reunification

Holders of the KEI visa can also apply for dependents to join them in Malta, including spouses and children.

6. Stable EU Job Market Access

Malta’s membership in the EU offers a stable economic and legal environment, with potential for future EU mobility under certain conditions.

In-Demand Jobs:

According to Identity Malta and employer trends, the following fields are facing acute shortages:

• Information Technology: Software developers, cybersecurity experts, systems engineers
• Healthcare: Nurses, caregivers, medical technicians
• Construction & Engineering: Civil engineers, architects, project managers
• Finance: Accountants, compliance officers, analysts
• Gaming Industry: Game developers, IT support
• Hospitality: Hotel managers, chefs, operations staff
• Education: STEM and language teachers

Source: JobsPlus Labour Market Report

Application Process of Malta KEI Work VISA Process for Skill Shortage Jobs 2025:

Step 1: Obtain a Valid Job Offer

• Your employer must be registered and authorized under the KEI scheme.
• The job must meet salary and skill criteria.

Step 2: Employer Prepares the Application

• Documents required:
  • Employment contract
  • Job description
  • CV and qualifications
  • Passport copy
  • Health insurance
  • Police clearance

Step 3: Submit Application to Identity Malta

• Submission can be made by the employer via email or the online portal.
• All non-English documents must be translated and legalized.

Step 4: Receive Approval

• Approval typically arrives within 5 to 10 working days.
• Once approved, the applicant can travel to Malta.

Step 5: Arrival and Residence Card Issuance

• Upon arrival, visit Identity Malta to complete biometric enrollment.
• A residence card valid for 1 year is issued (renewable).

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

• The submission of documents that are either inaccurate or insufficient
• Submitting an application without a substantial job offer
• Utilizing inaccurate or fabricated credentials or information during the application process
• Failure to satisfy the compensation or involvement prerequisites
• Neglecting to respond to a communication from Personality Malta
• Time can be saved and the likelihood of approval can be increased by avoiding these errors.

Expert Tips:

• Coordinate the work role to guarantee your ongoing capabilities.
• Collaborate with a dependable manager who comprehends the KEI process.
• Maintain the preparation and appropriate scanning of all unique reports.
• Confirm the precision of the application shape.
• Maintain communication with your supervisor throughout the application process.

Renewal and Long-Term Options:

• The KEI Visa is renewable annually as long as employment continues.
• After 5 years of legal stay, you may apply for long-term EU residence.
• Family members may also transition to long-term residency under certain conditions.

Final Thoughts:

The Malta KEI Work Visa offers a streamlined, government-backed pathway for skilled professionals seeking legal employment and long-term prospects in the EU. With short processing times, strong worker protections, and high quality of life, Malta stands out as an attractive destination in 2025.

For official updates, always consult the Identity Malta website or a licensed immigration consultant.

Frequently Asked Questions: