100 Sample Questions & Answers for Malta Pre-Departure Course
(Phase 1 & 2)
Easy-to-Share Format for MS Word
How to Use This Document
1.
Phase 1 Exam Preparation: Use Questions 1-85 to study for the online
multiple-choice and true/false exams
2.
Phase 2 Interview Preparation: Focus on Questions 86-100 for the live
interview
3.
Study Strategy: Review all questions, but pay special attention to
scenario-based questions (86-100) as Phase 2 has a high failure rate
4.
Course Timeline: You have 42 days to
complete both modules and assessments
SECTION 1: LIVING AND WORKING IN MALTA
(Questions 1-50)
Part A: Introduction to Malta
& Culture (Q1-15)
Q1. What
are the two official languages of Malta?
Answer: Maltese and English. Maltese is the
national language, while English is widely spoken and used for official
purposes.
Q2. What
is the predominant religion in Malta?
Answer: Roman Catholicism. It is deeply
embedded in the culture and traditions of the islands.
Q3. What
is a "festa" in Malta?
Answer: A "festa" is a village
feast celebrating the patron saint of the locality. It is a major cultural
event featuring religious processions, band marches, and spectacular fireworks.
Q4. Why is
it important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites in Malta?
Answer: It is a sign of respect for the
local culture and religious traditions. Many churches and religious sites have
dress codes (e.g., covering shoulders and knees).
Q5. Name
two important public holidays celebrated in Malta.
Answer: Freedom Day (March 31st) and
Independence Day (September 21st). Other examples include Republic Day
(December 13th).
Q6. What
is the "Sette Giugno" holiday commemorating?
Answer: Sette Giugno is a Maltese public
holiday on June 7th, commemorating the 1919 riots when Maltese citizens
protested against the British colonial government.
Q7. What
is the significance of the "Knights of St. John" in Maltese history?
Answer: They ruled Malta from 1530 to 1798,
built magnificent fortifications and cities like Valletta, and left a lasting
cultural and architectural legacy.
Q8. What
is the local currency in Malta?
Answer: The Euro (€), as Malta is a member
of the European Union and the Eurozone.
Q9. What
is the primary international airport in Malta?
Answer: Malta International Airport (MLA),
located in Luqa.
Q10. What
is the capital city of Malta?
Answer: Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage
site known for its rich history and Baroque architecture.
Q11. How would
you typically greet a person you are meeting for the first time in a
professional setting in Malta?
Answer: A firm handshake and a smile. Eye
contact is also important. Cheek kisses are usually reserved for friends and
family.
Q12. Is
punctuality viewed the same way in Malta as in Northern European countries?
Answer: Generally, Maltese people are
considered more relaxed about time, but it is still important to be on time for
professional appointments and work.
Q13. What
is a "pastizz"?
Answer: A traditional Maltese savory pastry,
usually filled with ricotta cheese or peas. It's a very popular local snack.
Q14. Where
is the main public hospital in Malta located?
Answer: Mater Dei Hospital, located in
Msida. It is the main state-of-the-art public hospital.
Q15. What
is the meaning of "Mnarja"?
Answer: Mnarja (St. Peter and St. Paul's
feast) is one of the most important traditional Maltese festivals, celebrated
on June 29th, with a strong emphasis on folk music, horse races, and
traditional food.
Part B: Daily Life,
Accommodation & Transport (Q16-35)
Q16. What
documents are essential for a new resident to obtain after arriving in Malta?
Answer: You must register with Identity
Malta to get a national ID card and a tax identification number from Inland
Revenue.
Q17. How
much is the standard monthly public transport pass in Malta?
Answer: Approximately €26 for a monthly
Tallinja card, which provides unlimited travel on buses.
Q18. What
is the name of the public bus service in Malta?
Answer: Malta Public Transport. The prepaid
card used for travel is called a Tallinja Card.
Q19. Are
buses the only form of public transport in Malta?
Answer: No, there are also ferry services,
such as the Valletta to Sliema ferry, and the main ferry connecting Malta to
Gozo from Cirkewwa.
Q20. What
is the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central area of
Malta?
Answer: The average is approximately €800 to
€1,200 per month.
Q21. What
is an alternative to renting an entire apartment for a single person?
Answer: Renting a shared room, which costs
an average of €400 to €700 per month, including utilities.
Q22. What
is the estimated monthly cost of basic utilities (electricity, water, gas) for
a small apartment?
Answer: You should budget between €150 and
€250 per month.
Q23. What
is the speed limit when driving in urban areas in Malta?
Answer: The speed limit is generally 50 km/h
in urban zones.
Q24. On
which side of the road do people drive in Malta?
Answer: They drive on the LEFT side of the
road.
Q25. What
is a "Tallinja Card"?
Answer: It is a prepaid travel card used on
all public buses in Malta, offering discounted fares compared to buying a
single ticket.
Q26. What
is the single bus ticket price in winter?
Answer: The single bus ticket in winter is
€2.00.
Q27. What
is the emergency number to call for police, ambulance, or fire services in
Malta?
Answer: The number is 112 (the European
emergency number).
Q28. Where
can you go for primary healthcare if you are a resident?
Answer: You can visit one of the public
health centers located in various localities across Malta.
Q29. What
is the "Eco Tax" in Malta?
Answer: It's a waste management fee included
in utility bills for all households.
Q30. Where
do you go to register for your ID card and residency?
Answer: Identity Malta (identitymalta.com) is the government
agency responsible for this.
Q31. Which
government entity manages the country's electricity supply?
Answer: Enemalta, the state-owned energy
company.
Q32. Is
health insurance mandatory for non-EU residents in Malta?
Answer: It is highly recommended, and many
employers will include private health insurance as part of your employment
package. You can also access public healthcare after registration.
Q33. Do
shops typically close for lunch in Malta?
Answer: Yes, many smaller shops and
businesses may close for a couple of hours in the afternoon (e.g., 1 PM to 4
PM), though this practice is less common in large supermarkets and shopping
centers.
Q34. What
is the main way to travel between Malta and Gozo?
Answer: By ferry, departing from the port of
Cirkewwa in the north of Malta.
Q35. How
many days do you have to complete the entire Pre-Departure Course?
Answer: You have up to 42 days to complete
both modules and the online assessments.
Part C: Integration & Legal
Essentials (Q36-50)
Q36. What
is the main objective of the Pre-Departure Course?
Answer: To prepare third-country nationals
for life and work in Malta, covering culture, daily life, workers' rights, and
obligations.
Q37. What
are the two main modules of the Phase 1 course?
Answer: The first module is "Living and
Working in Malta" (Topics 1-10), and the second is "Rights and
Obligations at the Workplace" (Topics 11-15).
Q38. Do
you need to complete both Phase 1 and Phase 2 if you're applying for your first
permit?
Answer: Yes, all first-time work permit
applicants who are not yet working in Malta must complete both phases.
Q39. Which
workers are exempt from taking the Pre-Departure Course?
Answer: Third-country nationals who already
hold a valid Single Permit before the 1st of March 2026 are exempt.
Q40. How
much does the course cost?
Answer: The cost is €250 (€245 for the
course and a €5 fee to book the Phase 2 interview). This fee is non-refundable.
Q41. What
is the responsibility of a foreign worker regarding integration into Maltese
society?
Answer: The worker has an obligation to
adapt to Maltese society, which includes respecting local laws, culture, and
participating in civic life.
Q42. Which
department is responsible for administering the examination for the integration
course?
Answer: The Government's Examinations
Department is responsible for coordinating the final exams.
Q43. Who
is responsible for issuing the "Skills Pass" for the hospitality
sector?
Answer: The Institute of Tourism Studies
(ITS) is responsible for administering the Skills Pass examinations for those
working in the tourism and hospitality sector.
Q44. What
happens if you are applying to work in the tourism sector?
Answer: In addition to the Pre-Departure
Course, you will need to complete a sector-specific training course and obtain
a "Skills Pass".
Q45. Is it
true that the Pre-Departure Course is only about language skills?
Answer: No, while language is part of it,
the course is much broader. It covers Maltese culture, traditions, civic
participation, legal awareness, and workplace rights.
Q46. What
is "Identity Malta"?
Answer: The government agency responsible
for civil registration, issuing ID cards, and managing citizenship and
residency applications.
Q47. What
is one key piece of advice for someone looking to integrate into the local
community?
Answer: Learn about local customs and
traditions, attempt to speak a few words of Maltese, and be respectful of the
community's values.
Q48. Who
are "Third-Country Nationals" (TCNs)?
Answer: TCNs are citizens of countries that
are not members of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA),
or Switzerland.
Q49. Can
you apply for a work permit in Malta without completing the Pre-Departure
Course?
Answer: No, as of March 1st, 2026, the certificate
of completion is a mandatory requirement for all first-time Single Permit
applications from non-EU/EEA nationals.
Q50. What
type of questions are asked in the Phase 1 online exams?
Answer: The Phase 1 exams consist of
"true or false" and "multiple choice" questions based on
the course material.
SECTION 2: RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS AT THE
WORKPLACE (Questions 51-85)
Part A: Employment Contracts
& Working Conditions (Q51-65)
Q51. What
is an "indefinite" employment contract?
Answer: An indefinite contract is a
permanent employment agreement that continues until it is terminated by either
the employer or the employee, subject to the contract's terms and legal
requirements.
Q52. What
is the maximum probationary period allowed by Maltese law?
Answer: The maximum probation period is 6
months. During this period, it is easier for either party to terminate the
contract.
Q53. What
are the mandatory elements that must be included in an employment contract?
Answer: Key elements include the job title,
description, place of work, working hours, salary, leave entitlement, and
notice period.
Q54. What
is the standard maximum working week in Malta (excluding overtime)?
Answer: The standard maximum is 40 hours per
week.
Q55. What
is the average weekly minimum wage for an adult worker in Malta?
Answer: The standard minimum wage is
approximately €192.73 per week, which is about €834.52 per month.
Q56. How
many days of annual leave is a full-time employee entitled to for a 5-day
working week?
Answer: A full-time employee is entitled to
24 working days of paid annual leave per year.
Q57. Are
Maltese public holidays in addition to annual leave entitlement?
Answer: Yes, employees are entitled to paid
time off on 14 public holidays in addition to their annual leave.
Q58. What
is the minimum break entitlement for a shift that lasts 6 hours?
Answer: The law provides that for a shift of
more than 4 hours, the worker is entitled to a break, typically one hour.
Q59. What
is the legal minimum rest period between working days?
Answer: Employees are entitled to a minimum
of 11 consecutive hours of rest in any 24-hour period.
Q60. How
is overtime typically treated in Malta?
Answer: Overtime is usually voluntary and
must be compensated at a higher rate (e.g., time-and-a-half or double time), as
stipulated in the contract or collective agreement.
Q61. What
is the legal requirement for an employer to provide a written contract?
Answer: An employer must provide a written
employment contract within the first month of the employee's start date.
Q62. What
is a "fixed-term" contract?
Answer: It is an employment contract with a
specific duration. It expires automatically on the end date without the need
for a formal termination.
Q63. What
is the notice period for terminating a permanent contract?
Answer: It depends on the contract, but
typically the law stipulates a minimum notice period that increases with the
length of service.
Q64. What
is the difference between a permanent and a part-time contract?
Answer: A part-time contract is for fewer
hours than a full-time contract (usually under 40 hours), and the employee's
rights (e.g., leave, pay) are calculated on a pro-rata basis.
Q65. If
your employer fails to provide a contract, where should you seek help?
Answer: You should first discuss it with
your employer. If the issue is not resolved, you should contact the Department
of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).
Part B: Workplace Rights,
Health & Safety (Q66-75)
Q66. What
is the Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) responsible
for?
Answer: DIER is the government department in
Malta that handles employment disputes, enforces labor law, and provides
mediation services.
Q67. What
are the main duties of an employer regarding workplace health and safety?
Answer: Employers must carry out risk assessments,
provide safety training, maintain safe equipment, provide personal protective
equipment (PPE), and report accidents.
Q68. What
are the duties of an employee regarding workplace health and safety?
Answer: Employees must follow safety
procedures, use equipment correctly, report any hazards immediately, and not
misuse safety equipment.
Q69. What
is the legal framework for workplace health and safety in Malta?
Answer: The main laws are the Health and
Safety at Work Act and the regulations enforced by the Occupational Health and
Safety Authority (OHSA).
Q70. What
is the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA)?
Answer: OHSA is the Maltese government
authority responsible for promoting and enforcing occupational health and
safety standards in the workplace.
Q71. What
should an employee do if they see a fire extinguisher has not been inspected?
Answer: They should immediately report the
issue to their supervisor or manager. It is everyone's responsibility to
maintain a safe working environment.
Q72. Can
an employer force you to work more than 48 hours a week on a regular basis?
Answer: No, the law states that the average
weekly working hours, including overtime, cannot exceed 48 hours over a
reference period.
Q73. What
is the process for reporting a health and safety concern?
Answer: You should first report it
internally to your supervisor/manager. If the issue is not resolved, you can
file a formal complaint with OHSA.
Q74. What
does the "Health and Safety at Work Act" cover?
Answer: It sets out the general duties and
legal responsibilities of employers, employees, and others to ensure the
health, safety, and welfare of people at work.
Q75. Is an
employer allowed to deduct money from your salary without your agreement?
Answer: Deductions are only allowed if they
are legally required (e.g., tax, social security) or if they are clearly agreed
upon in the employment contract.
Part C: Equality, Harassment,
and Professional Conduct (Q76-85)
Q76. What
is considered "discrimination" in the workplace?
Answer: It is treating someone less
favorably because of a protected characteristic, such as age, gender, race,
religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
Q77. What
is "harassment" in a workplace context?
Answer: Unwanted conduct related to a
protected characteristic that violates a person's dignity or creates an
intimidating, hostile, degrading, or offensive environment.
Q78. What
is "victimization" in the context of discrimination?
Answer: Punishing an employee for making a
complaint about discrimination or supporting someone else's complaint.
Q79. What
is the meaning of "equal pay for equal work"?
Answer: It means that men and women (and all
workers) should receive the same pay for performing work of equal value, as
outlined in the Equality Act.
Q80. If
you are being exploited (e.g., forced to work without a contract), what is your
first step?
Answer: You should first contact the
Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER) to get advice and
report the situation.
Q81. What
is the legal definition of "minimum wage"?
Answer: It is the lowest remuneration that
an employer is legally allowed to pay a worker for their services.
Q82. What
is "inclusion" in a workplace context?
Answer: It means creating a work environment
where all employees feel respected, valued, and able to participate fully,
regardless of their background.
Q83. Is a
verbal agreement enough to be considered a legally binding employment contract?
Answer: While a contract can be verbal, it
is a legal requirement for the employer to provide a written statement of the
main terms within one month of employment.
Q84. What
is "indirect discrimination"?
Answer: It occurs when a seemingly neutral
policy or practice puts a person with a protected characteristic at a
disadvantage compared to others.
Q85. What
does "professional development" in the context of the integration
course involve?
Answer: It includes understanding the
expectations of Maltese workplaces, developing basic work ethics, and improving
skills to advance in your career.
SECTION 3: WORKPLACE SCENARIOS & INTERVIEW
PREPARATION (Questions 86-100)
Important
Note: These are
practical, scenario-based questions that you might be asked during your live
Phase 2 interview. Your ability to apply your knowledge is crucial, as the
failure rate for Phase 2 is high (up to 50%).
Q86.
Scenario: You are late for work due to a bus delay. What do you do?
Answer: I would call my supervisor or
manager as soon as I know I will be late to let them know and give an estimated
arrival time. I would apologize for the delay.
Q87.
Scenario: You notice a colleague is being bullied by a manager. What is your
first step?
Answer: I would first speak to the colleague
privately to show support and ask if they want help. I would encourage them to
report the issue to Human Resources (HR) or a union representative, and I would
be willing to be a witness if they proceed with a formal complaint.
Q88.
Scenario: Your employer has not paid you on time for the second month in a row.
What do you do?
Answer: First, I would check my bank account
to confirm the delay. Then, I would approach my supervisor or HR department to
inquire about the issue. If the problem persists, I would submit a formal
written complaint and contact DIER for assistance and guidance.
Q89.
Scenario: You are unsure how to operate a piece of machinery at your new job.
What should you do?
Answer: I should never use the machinery
without proper training. I would ask my supervisor or a more experienced
colleague to provide the correct training and demonstrate the safe procedures.
I would also ask for the relevant safety manual or Standard Operating Procedure
(SOP).
Q90.
Scenario: The fire alarm goes off at work. What is your immediate action?
Answer: I will stop what I am doing and
immediately and calmly leave the building using the nearest and safest fire
exit. I will not use the lift. I will proceed to the designated assembly point
and wait for further instructions. I will not take personal belongings.
Q91.
Scenario: You need to request two days of annual leave to attend a family
event. How would you phrase your request?
Answer: "Good morning [Manager's Name].
I would like to request two days of annual leave for [specific dates] to
attend a family event. Is this possible? I will ensure all my work is up to
date and my tasks are covered before I leave."
Q92.
Scenario: A colleague from a different cultural background makes an insensitive
joke. What should you do?
Answer: I would not laugh or encourage the
joke. In a private and calm way, I would explain to my colleague that the joke
could be hurtful or offensive. I would also remind them that our workplace
values equality and respect for everyone.
Q93.
Scenario: You are given a task that you don't know how to do, and your
supervisor is away. What do you do?
Answer: I would first check if a senior
colleague or another team member can help me. If not, I would send my
supervisor an email or message to clearly describe the problem and ask for
guidance. I would then proceed with any other work I can do while waiting for a
response.
Q94.
Scenario: You see a co-worker is visibly unwell and unsafe to continue working.
What do you do?
Answer: I would approach my co-worker and
express my concern. I would encourage them to report to the supervisor or go to
the first aid room. If they are unable to do so themselves, I would inform the
supervisor immediately to get them the necessary assistance.
Q95.
Scenario: How would you introduce yourself and explain why you want to work in
Malta during the interview?
Answer: "My name is [Your Name],
and I come from [Your Country]. I have [Number] years
of experience working as a [Your Job Title]. I am applying to
work in Malta because I have heard about the good work opportunities in this
sector, and I am attracted to the positive and friendly environment."
Q96.
Scenario: If asked "What do you think about the cost of living in
Malta?", how would you respond?
Answer: "From my research, I understand
that rent and eating out can be quite expensive, especially in central areas. I
am prepared for this and am planning to live in a more affordable area and use
public transport, like the bus, for my commute."
Q97.
Scenario: During the interview, you are asked a question you don't fully
understand. What should you do?
Answer: It is better to ask for
clarification than to give a wrong answer. I would politely say, "I'm
sorry, I didn't quite understand the question. Could you please rephrase it or
explain it more simply?"
Q98.
Scenario: What would you say if the interviewer asks: "What are your
expectations about living and working in Malta?"
Answer: "I expect to work hard and
contribute positively to my team and company. I am looking forward to learning
more about Maltese culture, exploring the country, and integrating into the
local community. I know the course will help me be prepared for this."
Q99.
Scenario: Your supervisor asks you to do something you believe is unethical or
unsafe. What do you do?
Answer: I would express my concerns
respectfully and clearly, explaining why I believe it is unethical or unsafe. I
would ask for clarification or if there is a safer way to complete the task. If
my concerns are ignored, I would report it to a higher authority (like HR) or
OHSA.
Q100.
Scenario: In the interview, they ask you to name a few things you remember from
the "Living and Working in Malta" module. What would you say?
Answer: "I remember that Malta has two
official languages, Maltese and English. I also learned about the importance of
the 'festa' as a local tradition. I also remember that the public bus service
is a great way to get around the island and that you need a Tallinja Card for
cheaper fares."
Quick Reference Summary
|
Section |
Questions |
Focus Area |
|
Section 1 |
1-50 |
Living and
Working in Malta |
|
Section 2 |
51-85 |
Rights and
Obligations at the Workplace |
|
Section 3 |
86-100 |
Workplace
Scenarios & Interview Preparation |
Key Reminders for Success
|
Phase |
Format |
Duration |
Key Tip |
|
Phase 1 |
Multiple
Choice & True/False |
30 minutes
per exam |
Review all
Q1-85 thoroughly |
|
Phase 2 |
Live
Online Interview |
20 minutes |
Practice
scenario-based Q86-100; high failure rate |
Important Dates & Costs
|
Item |
Details |
|
Course
Completion Deadline |
42 days |
|
Course Fee |
€250
(non-refundable) |
|
Mandatory
From |
March 1,
2026 |
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