A new labour migration policy proposes making life easier for third-country nationals (TCNs) working in Malta who suddenly lose their job.

As it stands, TCNs whose employment is terminated must leave the country immediately. However, the policy proposes giving them a 30-day grace period during which they can remain in Malta to seek new employment.

It also includes a provision to extend this grace period by an additional 30 days contingent on the TCN demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support themselves without accessing social assistance.

The government said the underlying rationale for this proposed change is to prioritise the retention of existing skilled individuals already in Malta, thereby reducing the burden and complexity associated with processing entirely new employment applications.

It is part of a widespread proposed reform to Malta’s labour migration laws, which includes obligations on businesses to employ a minimum number of Maltese or EU workers before applying for TCNs, restrictions on businesses with a high termination rate of TCN workers, and the extension of the work permit renewal period from one to two years.

Prime Minister Robert Abela said this policy reflects a shift in the PL administration’s mentality from a “pro-business” to a “pro-market” one.

“This means that our economic policies shouldn’t only benefit businesses but society as a whole,” he said.

Do you agree with this proposal?