Employment

Contracts

The most common employment contracts are full-time contracts of indefinite duration. Fixed term employment contracts are however becoming increasingly common, as it the trend to hire temporary staff from specialised agencies.

A national minimum wage is established by law. The national minimum wage is revised every year. All employees are entitled to a half yearly bonus of Lm58- each, and Lm2 weekly allowance. Overtime rates are paid at 150% of basic pay while on Sundays and Public Holidays overtime rates are 200% of basic pay.

Other conditions of employment include:

(Source: http://www.education.gov.mt/ministry/secretariat/conditions_of_work.htm)

Social Security

The Social Security Act provides for a number of benefits, including retirement and disability pensions, sickness, injury and unemployment benefits, medical assistance and other social allowances and benefits. Entitlement to certain assistance arises regardless of contributions while other benefits can be claimed on the basis of the contributions paid, or deemed paid, by the beneficiary.  Maltese law also provides for free hospital treatment for all Maltese citizens.

All persons working in Malta, whether foreign or Maltese nationals, must contribute to the social security system.  However, foreigners may be exempt if they prove to the Maltese social services authorities that they continue to pay social security contributions in their home country. 

For further information, reference should be made to the Ministry for Family and Social Solidarity website. http://www.msp.gov.mt/