Non-EU international students in Malta can work part-time legally, but only after completing a specific immigration sequence — obtaining your eResidence Card and securing a Jobsplus employment licence through your employer. This guide covers the 2026 legal framework, the 90-day wait, minimum wage, tax position, and the sectors where student part-time work is most available.
Disclaimer: Immigration rules, financial thresholds, and fee structures are subject to change. Always verify current requirements directly with Identità, Jobsplus, and your target institution before making decisions or submitting applications.
Legal Work Rules for International Students in Malta
Before hunting for part-time work, you must navigate Malta's immigration and employment laws.
- The 20-Hour Limit: Non-EU students are legally capped at a maximum of 20 hours of work per week during the academic term.
- The 90-Day Wait: Most non-EU students can only access part-time employment after completing their first three months of study in Malta.
- Jobsplus License: Before beginning employment, your employer must secure a Jobsplus work license before you can legally clock in.
Because of these processing timelines, ensure you arrive with enough savings to cover your first three months entirely without income.
Note: Learn more in our articles: Can I Work Part-Time in Malta? Rules and Regulations for Non-EU Students and Malta Student Work Permits: 2026 Document Checklist and Visa Rules.
Malta Minimum Wage & Student Tax Benefits in 2026
According to the Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER), Malta's national minimum wage for 2026 is €5.74 per hour.
There is also a tax benefit worth knowing about. The Malta Tax and Customs Administration (MTCA) allows registered students to pay a flat 10% tax rate on part-time earnings up to €10,000 per year. Because eligibility requirements apply, students should verify their individual tax position with the Malta Tax and Customs Administration or Commissioner for Revenue before relying on the reduced rate.
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Top Part-Time Job Sectors for Students in Malta
Hospitality and Tourism Jobs
Malta's tourism-driven economy means hospitality is always hiring, especially in popular areas such as, St. Julian's and Sliema.
- Shifts are flexible and employers are used to working around student schedules
- Tips during the peak summer season can significantly boost your hourly earnings
Retail and Supermarket Jobs
Supermarkets, convenience stores, and retail stores regularly hire international students.
- Pay is closer to minimum wage, although rates vary by employer.
- Shifts are often consistent and predictable
On-Campus Roles
Many educational institutions offer part-time opportunities for enrolled students.
- Examples of on-campus roles include, library, administration, and research roles
- No commute and employers fully understand your academic timetable
- Competitive pay and a professional environment that complements your studies
Where to Find Student Jobs in Malta
- Jobsplus, Malta's official government job portal, is the best starting point for verified employer listings
- Keepmeposted is Malta's most popular private job board for student-friendly roles
- Your university's careers office, many institutions have dedicated job boards and employer partnerships for students
Start Your Student Job Search in Malta
Part-time work in Malta is a practical way to supplement your income and build local professional experience, provided you understand the legal sequence: eResidence Card first, Jobsplus licence second, employment third. The 20-hour weekly cap applies throughout your studies, and your academic performance must remain the priority — permit renewal depends on satisfactory attendance and progress. Budget conservatively for your first three months without income, and once your paperwork is in order, Jobsplus and Keepmeposted are the most reliable starting points for verified student-friendly listings.
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