“Identità reiterates the importance of Maltese employers hiring foreign workers to ensure that prospective employees possess the necessary skills and qualifications for their roles. In such cases, Identità will continue to streamline the residence permit and visa processes to help employers in various economic sectors attract and employ the required workforce where local labour shortages are identified.”

“Investigations are conducted by the agency regularly to identify potential violations or non-compliance issues. Any evidence, potential illegal activity or violation will continue to be reported to the relevant authorities for further investigation, and necessary action.”

Lovin Malta further inquired about a large sum of money that many workers claimed to have paid to enter and work in Malta. This amount ranges between €10,000 to €15,000. This was the government entity’s response:

“Identità’s fees in the immigration process are public and published on its website. The processing fee for a single permit application is established at €300 and the Agency is not responsible for any additional fees through private arrangements that third-country nationals seeking employment in Malta enter into with any unauthorised third parties.”

Moreover, when asked about what action has been taken against the companies found to be perpetrating the abuse, Identità did not respond.

Around a month ago, hundreds of third-country nationals were shocked when they received rejection letters related to work permit applications that were in their last stages. This decision mostly impacted workers in the cab and food courier industry, however, others were hit too.

This decision was made by Identità on the recommendation of Jobsplus which cited market research for its suggestions. It stated that there is an oversupply of workers as well as abuse and exploitation within the industry that need to be addressed.

Following this, fleet companies that employ these people, as well as ride-hailing platforms that utilise them, spoke out and denied the fact that there is an oversaturation of such workers. They pleaded for the government to discuss the decision and rethink it. Some further emphasised the detrimental impact this has had on people who had been working in Malta for years and tried to switch jobs or companies.

However, Identità has so far stuck to its guns with Prime Minister Robert Abela saying it’s clear that the country has enough foreign workers employed in these two sectors. He further warned temping agencies not to try and circumvent the system.

Do you think this policy decision will help combat abuse in the sectors?