This section explains how candidates complete the programme and how certificates are issued through the portal. The system includes different learning parts and two examination phases. All courses are delivered online, and all exams are based on the official topics. After completing the required parts, candidates receive their certificates through Hyland.
The Pre-Departure Course is the first part of the programme and must be completed by every person applying for their first single work permit in Malta.
All candidates which are currently ‘Not working in Malta’ and thus applying for their first work permit, are to carry out both Phases.
All candidates complete Phase 1. This includes the online exams for each part. Each exam is based only on the topics taught in that part and takes around 30 minutes.
Candidates attend a short in-person interview at their closest VFS centre. The interview is booked on the portal after successful completion of the Phase 1. The interview confirms understanding of the topics and checks simple communication skills. The topics remain the same; only the examination method changes.
This course teaches candidates about living, working and integrating in Malta. It includes simple online lessons delivered through Coursera, with videos, reading sections and optional mock tests.
This part includes the following topics:
At the end of this part, candidates complete an online exam based on Topics 1–10 with true or false or multiple choice questions. The exam takes about 30 minutes.
This course teaches candidates how Maltese workplaces operate, their rights, their duties and how to behave professionally. Lessons are given online through Coursera. This part includes:
At the end of this part, candidates complete an online exam based on Topics 11–15 with true or false or multiple choice questions. This exam also takes about 30 minutes.
Candidates applying for tourism or hospitality jobs must complete the Skills Pass Tourism and Hospitality section. This part focuses on customer service, behaviour and sector standards. It includes online lessons, Coursera videos, reading material, optional mock tests and a sector-specific online exam.
The Skills Pass includes modules such as:
Tourism candidates will also be asked to attend an in-person interview after the online exams.
After completing the required online exams and any interview (when applicable), candidates receive their digital certificates through Hyland, the official document and credential management system used by Skills Pass.
Candidates will be able to download additional documents from the portal for more details about the course structure, exam rules, interview guidance, and support. These documents will provide clear step-by-step explanations of the full process. Further reading and additional learning material will also be available on Coursera, where candidates will be able to explore more information related to the course topics.