Why move from the UAE to Malta?

Malta offers stable EU residence (unlike Gulf rotation contracts), strong hospitality and care job markets, English-speaking workplaces, and a route to long-term EU residence.

Where is the Malta visa centre in the UAE?

VFS Global runs Malta visa centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Is the Skills Pass mandatory if I am already in the UAE?

Yes. The Skills Pass requirement applies to all third-country nationals taking up Maltese jobs in covered sectors, regardless of where you currently live.

Will my UAE hospitality experience help?

Very much - Maltese 4 and 5-star hotels actively recruit from Dubai and Abu Dhabi precisely because of your service standards and English skills.

Country guide · UAE

Malta jobs & Skills Pass guide for candidates already in the UAE

Q: Can I apply for a Malta work visa from the UAE?

Yes. Anyone legally residing in the UAE can apply for Malta jobs and complete the Skills Pass Pre-Departure assessment from Dubai or Abu Dhabi via the VFS Global Malta centres.

Already living and working in the UAE? You can still apply for a Malta job offer and complete the Skills Pass Pre-Departure assessment from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. SkillPass Prep lets you practise in your own time around your current shift schedule.

Malta visa centres

· Dubai
· Abu Dhabi (via VFS Global)

Top hiring sectors

· Hospitality
· Hotels
· F&B
· Cleaning
· Caregiving

Why Malta

· Move from a Gulf rotation contract to a stable EU residence permit
· English-speaking work environment, similar to UAE hospitality
· Long-term residence in Malta can lead to EU long-term resident status
· Hospitality and care experience from the UAE is highly valued by Maltese employers

Step-by-step: from UAE to a Malta job

Step 1
Apply from the UAE
Use your existing UAE-based CV. Maltese hospitality groups actively recruit experienced Dubai and Abu Dhabi hotel staff.
Step 2
Employer files single permit
Your Maltese employer files the single-permit application with Identità.
Step 3
Skills Pass Pre-Departure
Prepare on SkillPass Prep - runs in any browser, perfect for evenings after your UAE shift.
Step 4
VFS Malta D-visa
Book your long-stay D-visa appointment at VFS Global Malta in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Step 5
Relocate to Malta
Move from the UAE to Malta and collect your residence permit.

Skills Pass for candidates already in the UAE - what to practise

Part 1 - Living and Integrating in Malta: 15 modules on Malta's culture, public services, transport and daily life.
Part 2 - Rights and Obligations at the Workplace: 5 modules on Maltese employment law, contracts, leave and safety.
Part 3 - English Speaking & Listening: Real-style speaking prompts so you don't freeze in the proctored test.

Frequently asked questions

Practise the Malta Skills Pass from UAE

Mock exams, English speaking practice and a step-by-step guide for candidates already in the UAE preparing for the Pre-Departure assessment.

Start Skills Pass Prep €99 What is the Skills Pass?

One-time payment · 30-day access · No subscription