Filipino Guide to Working in Malta
Why Malta Is Attracting Filipino Workers
Malta has become one of Europe's top destinations for Filipino workers. The country's booming tourism industry creates steady demand for hospitality, cleaning, and maintenance professionals. Unlike seasonal destinations, Malta's Mediterranean climate and year-round tourism mean consistent work — no layoffs during off-season.
English is one of Malta's two official languages, which removes the language barrier that Filipinos face in other European countries. The growing Filipino community (estimated at 3,000–5,000) means you will find kabayan, Filipino shops, and Tagalog masses from day one.
Types of Jobs Available
The most in-demand roles for Filipino workers in Malta include:
- Cleaning and housekeeping — short-let property turnovers, hotel housekeeping, and commercial cleaning
- Hospitality — restaurants, cafés, and catering
- Healthcare — nursing and elderly care
- Maintenance — property maintenance and handyman services
- Childcare — nannies and au pairs
At CleanerPlace, we are specifically hiring cleaners, cleaning supervisors, and maintenance technicians for short-let property services.
Work Permit Process
Non-EU nationals need a Single Permit to work in Malta. This combined residence and work permit is applied for by your employer. The process takes 8–12 weeks and requires:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Police clearance from your home country or current country of residence
- Medical fitness certificate
- Employment contract signed by both parties
- Employer's licence and supporting company documents
As a Filipino national, you also need to comply with POEA/DMW requirements and obtain your OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate). Read our detailed work permit guide for the full step-by-step.
Salary and Cost of Living
Malta's national minimum wage is approximately €835/month (2026). Cleaning and hospitality roles typically pay €900–€1,200/month. Supervisor and maintenance roles earn more.
Monthly expenses for a Filipino worker in Malta:
- Shared accommodation: €250–€400
- Groceries: €200–€300 (Asian supermarkets available)
- Transport: €26/month (Tallinja bus card)
- Mobile phone: €10–€15/month
- Remittances: most workers send €300–€500/month home
After expenses, many Filipino workers save more in Malta than in Gulf countries, especially when you factor in EU benefits like paid leave and health coverage.
Filipino Community in Malta
The Filipino community in Malta is small but tight-knit. You will find:
- Filipino stores — Asian supermarkets in Msida, Gzira, Hamrun, and Qawra stock Filipino groceries, snacks, and condiments
- Churches — Several parishes hold Tagalog-language masses, particularly in Msida and Valletta
- Community events — Filipino associations organise Independence Day celebrations, Christmas parties, and community outreach
- Online groups — Active Facebook groups for Filipinos in Malta with housing listings, job postings, and advice
Read more about Filipino community life in Malta.
Practical Tips for New Arrivals
- Bank account: Open an account at Bank of Valletta or HSBC Malta. You need your ID card and proof of employment
- SIM card: Buy a GO or Melita prepaid SIM at the airport for €10–€15
- Bus transport: Download the Tallinja app and buy a monthly pass for €26. Malta has no trains or metro
- Remittances: Wise (TransferWise) and Remitly offer the best exchange rates. Avoid money changers with high fees
- Weather: Summers are hot (35°C) but winters are mild (10–15°C). Bring layers for winter — Maltese buildings can be cold indoors
- Public holidays: Malta has 14 public holidays per year — more than most EU countries