This guide outlines the mandatory documentation, legal requirements, and onboarding steps for new hires in Malta. It applies to both local and foreign employees and ensures compliance with Maltese employment law.
Mandatory Documents & Requirements
Requirement | Description |
FS4 Form | Required for registering new employees with the authorities. |
Social Security Number | All employees must provide a valid number. |
Employment Agreement (EA) | Must be signed 2–3 days before the start date. |
Registration with Authorities | Must be completed within 4 days of employment start. |
Electronic Signatures
Employment contracts can be signed electronically using platforms like PandaDoc, provided:
The signature is qualified or advanced (compliant with EU eIDAS Regulation).
The signers can be authenticated.
An audit trail is maintained.
Under Malta’s Electronic Commerce Act, such contracts are legally valid.
Medical Checks
Required only for non-EU employees applying for work permits.
Screening depends on nationality and residence history.
Health & Safety Training
Mandatory for all employees
Employers must provide training under the Occupational Health and Safety Authority Act (Chapter 646).
Training includes:
Job-specific safety instructions
Supervision and guidance
Sector-specific requirements
Insurance Requirements
Employer liability insurance is not mandatory in Malta.
Social Security covers workplace injuries and illnesses.
Some employers choose to obtain insurance based on the nature of the work.
Probation Periods
Probation terms depend on the type and duration of the employment agreement:
Indefinite Contracts
Standard: 6 months
Can be shortened if agreed in the EA
Fixed-Term Contracts
Contract Duration | Probation Period |
Less than 6 months | 1/3 of total duration |
6 to 15 months | 2 months per 6 months |
More than 15 months | 6 months |
Exceptions
Managerial or technical roles
Employees earning >2× minimum wage
Language of Employment Contracts
English-only contracts are legally valid if both parties understand English.
Maltese version is not mandatory, unless requested by the employee.
Bilingual contracts are common but not required.
Tax Year & Accounting Period
Malta’s tax year runs from January to December.
Companies may apply for an extension of their first accounting year (e.g., until December 2026).
A Tax Representative Form is required for this process.
Additional exemptions (e.g., DDT10) may apply—details to be confirmed by your tax advisor.