Legal Steps for Hiring Filipino Workers in Malta: POLO, OEC & Permits
The hiring of Filipino workers in Malta continues to grow in popularity due to their professionalism, work ethic, and high level of skill across various industries. However, when a Filipino national is moving from the Philippines to Malta on an employment basis, both the worker and the Maltese employer must follow several legal and administrative steps, well before the worker boards a flight.
Belgravia Advisory, as specialists in immigration law, provides comprehensive support to Filipino applicants and Malta-based employers throughout the full process. This article outlines the key requirements, mandatory certifications, and immigration procedures involved in legally positioning Filipino workers to Malta, from POLO Contract Verification to Overseas Employment Certificate and much more.
Why Filipino Workers Need Contract Verification Before Leaving the Philippines
Filipino nationals who are hired directly for a job in Malta must undergo POLO Contract Verification, a mandatory process governed by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). This requirement ensures that the employment contract complies with labour standards in both the Philippines and Malta.
What is POLO Contract Verification?
POLO, operating through the Philippine Embassy in Rome for Malta, reviews the employment contract to ensure:
- Fair and lawful working conditions
- Proper salary and benefits
- Compliance with Maltese labour laws
- Compliance with Philippine labour protection standards
Without this verification, Filipino workers cannot secure an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), a mandatory exit document for all Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The OEC: Your Mandatory Clearance to Leave the Philippines
After contract verification, Filipino workers must obtain an OEC which functions as:
- Proof of legal employment abroad
- A travel clearance required at Philippine immigration
Belgravia Advisory assists workers and employers by guiding them through the OEC requirements, timelines, and documentation to avoid delays.
Applying for the Maltese Single Permit
Once the contract is verified and the OEC is secured, the next step is the Single Permit Application. This is the authorisation that allows a non-EU citizen to:
- Legally work in Malta
- Reside in Malta for the duration of the employment contract
The Single Permit process requires:
- Verified and authenticated employment contract
- Employer supporting documentation
- Identity and security documents
- Labour market testing in certain cases
- Submission to Identita’ and Jobsplus
Mistakes in this application often lead to significant delays. Our immigration lawyers ensure the application is complete, compliant, and properly submitted.
Support for Maltese Employers Hiring Filipino Workers
Employers in Malta who intend to hire from the Philippines are also subject to specific obligations. The Philippines imposes particular requirements on foreign employers, including:
- Providing a compliant employment contract
- Submitting business registration documents
- Interviewing the employer
- Ensuring compliance with POLO and OEC procedures
Belgravia Advisory assists employers by preparing all required documentation, assisting with the interview by the Department of Migrant Workers, coordinating with POLO Rome, and ensuring legal compliance with both Maltese and Philippine regulations.
Why Choose Belgravia Advisory – Immigration Law Firm in Malta
At Belgravia Advisory, we specialise in supporting Filipino workers based in the Philippines who have received a job offer in Malta and require:
- POLO Contract Verification
- OEC processing guidance
- Single Permit Assistance
- Immigration and employment legal advice
Employers in Malta who need:
- Documentation support for hiring from the Philippines
- Correct contract templates and verification assistance
- Complete Single Permit application management
- Ongoing immigration compliance support
Our goal is to make the relocation and hiring process smooth, efficient, and legally sound for all parties involved.
Start Your Journey with a Specialised Immigration Law Firm
Whether you are a Filipino national preparing to work in Malta or a Maltese employer looking to legally employ Filipino workers, Belgravia Advisory is here to guide you every step of the way. For professional, reliable immigration assistance for Filipino workers and Maltese employers get in touch with us today on [email protected].
Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), a marketing and business administration specialist.
About Belgravia Advisory
Belgravia Advisory is a boutique legal firm in Malta founded by Dr Karl Cordina, bringing together a team of experienced professionals and international partners specialising in immigration, legal, and corporate services. You may reach our legal team at Belgravia Advisory on +356 99955714 or [email protected].
