What is Skills Pass Phase 1?

Phase 1 is the Pre-Departure assessment that third-country nationals complete before flying to Malta. It has three parts: Living in Malta, Workplace Rights, and English speaking & listening.

How can I pass Skills Pass Phase 1?

Practise in the same format as the real test. Take both practice quizzes per module, then sit timed mock final exams until you consistently score 80%+. SkillPass Prep mirrors the real Phase 1 structure.

What is the pass mark for Skills Pass Phase 1?

80% on each written part (Part 1 and Part 2). Part 3 (English speaking) is scored separately by a proctor.

How long does Skills Pass Phase 1 take?

The written final exams are timed (typically 30 minutes per part). Total preparation time varies - most candidates need 2–4 weeks of evening study to be comfortable with the material.

Skills Pass Phase 1 - Parts 1, 2 & 3 Guide (2026)

Skills Pass Phase 1 - Pre-Departure guide and practice strategy

Phase 1 of Malta's Skills Pass is the Pre-Departure assessment. You complete it from your home country before your work visa is issued. Here's exactly what's tested and how to prepare.

Part 1 - Living and Integrating in Malta (15 modules)

Part 1 covers practical daily life in Malta. Each module has its own video lesson, transcript and quiz. Topics typically include: Maltese culture and history, language, public transport, healthcare, housing, banking, education, emergency services, climate and geography.

Part 2 - Rights and Obligations at the Workplace (5 modules)

Part 2 covers Maltese employment law as it affects you as a worker. Topics typically include: employment contracts, working hours, public holidays and leave, occupational health & safety, and equality / anti-discrimination protections.

Part 3 - English Speaking and Listening test

Part 3 is a short proctored speaking and listening check. The format is interview-style: you'll be asked to describe situations, respond to short prompts, and demonstrate that you can hold a basic customer or workplace conversation in English. This is where most South Asian and Gulf candidates lose marks - not because their English is bad, but because they freeze under the timer.

How to pass Phase 1 on the first attempt

Treat the real assessment like an exam, not a quiz. Watch every video, read the transcripts, and take both practice quizzes per module on SkillPass Prep. Then take a timed mock final exam for each written part. Only book your VFS appointment once you're consistently scoring 80%+ on the mocks.