The introduction of the ‘Specialist Employee Initiative’ in Malta aims to address the skill shortages in the labor market by offering a fast-track application process for skilled foreign workers. This initiative targets University graduates and those qualified in managerial or technical roles with an annual income of at least €25,000.
To be eligible for the scheme, employers must prove that there are no Maltese or EU workers available to fill the role. Skilled third-country nationals can have their applications processed within 15 working days under this program. Additionally, the “Key Employee Initiative” fast-tracks applications of highly paid managers or technicians within five days.
According to data from Jobsplus, the influx of foreign workers to Malta has increased significantly, rising from 15,000 in 2012 to 97,000 in 2022 – a 546% increase. However, concerns have been raised about worker exploitation and the strain on the country’s infrastructure and resources.
In response to the criticism, Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that while the government is working to address and manage population growth, the local workforce’s supply does not meet the demand. The introduction of the ‘Specialist Employee Initiative’ aligns with the government’s commitment to addressing skill gaps and ensuring a smoother integration of skilled foreign workers.
Despite the positive impact of the initiative, concerns about increased migration have prompted the Maltese government to address the challenges posed by migration influx while meeting the demands of the labor market. In addition to the Specialist Employee Initiative, the AIDA Asylum Information Database report highlights the asylum situation in Malta, with a total of 973 asylum applications in 2022, including cases pending, refugee status, and subsidiary protection rates. The main countries of origin for asylum seekers are Syria, Eritrea, Bangladesh, and Ukraine.
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