For Moroccan and Algerian students looking for an affordable, English-speaking destination in Europe, Malta has rapidly become one of the top choices. However, one of the most critical questions students ask before booking their flights is: “Can I work to support myself while studying in Malta?” The answer is yes. Under Maltese immigration law, non-EU international students have the legal right to work part-time. This comprehensive guide covers the 90-day rule, the Jobsplus work permit process, popular student job sectors, hourly wages, and a realistic cost-of-living budget for 2026/2027.
Unlike countries with strict work restrictions, Malta allows third-country nationals (non-EU students) to work under clear statutory conditions:
In Malta, student work permits are issued by Jobsplus (the national employment agency) in coordination with Identità. The application process is straightforward:
| Step | Procedure | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Secure a Job Offer | Interview with local employers | You need an employer who agrees to hire you and sign the Jobsplus application forms. |
| 2. Prepare Documents | Gather study & ID records | Valid passport, student visa/residence card, school confirmation letter stating your class schedule and attendance. |
| 3. Submit Application | Joint submission to Jobsplus | The employer submits the student work license application along with the statutory processing fee (~€150 to €230). |
| 4. License Issuance | Start working legally | Once approved (usually 3 to 5 weeks), your license is granted for the duration of your study contract. |
Because English is an official national language and widely spoken everywhere, international students who speak good English have a significant advantage. Furthermore, students who speak French, Arabic, and English are in high demand across several thriving industries:
On a 20-hour weekly schedule, international students typically earn between €480 and €800 per month, which is enough to cover a substantial portion of their living expenses.
Compared to London, Dublin, or Paris, living in Malta is considerably more affordable. Here is an honest monthly breakdown for students:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Money-Saving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Student Accommodation | €300 – €450 | Sharing a 2- or 3-bedroom apartment with other students in Msida, Gzira, or Birkirkara keeps rent low. |
| Food & Groceries | €160 – €220 | Shopping at supermarket chains like Lidl and purchasing fresh fruit/veg from local street vans saves money. |
| Public Transportation | €0 – €25 | Registered student residents can obtain a personalized Tallinja Card, granting free bus travel across the entire island. |
| Phone, Internet & Utilities | €40 – €60 | Student mobile packages (Epic, GO, Melita) with high data allowances are very affordable. |
| Leisure & Personal Expenses | €80 – €120 | Student discounts are widely available for gyms, ferry crossings, and cultural sites. |
| Total Monthly Budget | €580 – €875 | A part-time student job can cover 70% to 100% of these daily living expenses. |
One of the greatest benefits of studying in Malta is that your student residence permit (National D-Visa / e-Residence Card) grants you visa-free access to the entire Schengen Area. During university breaks and holidays, you can travel freely across 29 European countries—including France, Italy, Germany, and Spain—without the need to apply for additional tourist visas.
At Education Club Agency, we provide end-to-end guidance for students looking to pursue their studies in Malta:
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No. English is an official national language in Malta and is the language of business, education, and hospitality. Almost 90% of the population speaks fluent English. Speaking French and Arabic is also a valuable advantage in multilingual support jobs.
Student employment licenses issued by Jobsplus are capped at 20 hours per week during the validity of the student permit. If an employer wishes to employ you full-time during holidays, a separate full-time seasonal work application must be arranged.
Once submitted by your employer, processing typically takes between 3 to 5 weeks. It is best to begin job hunting right after your first 60 days in Malta so your application is ready to file at day 90.
