100 Sample Questions & Answers for Malta Pre-Departure Course (Phase 1 & 2)
This set of 100
sample questions and answers is designed to prepare you for both the Phase 1 online examinations and the Phase 2 live interview. The questions are
based on the official syllabus covering "Living
and Working in Malta" and "Rights
and Obligations at the Workplace".
Important Note: You have 42 days
to complete the entire course, which includes both modules and the assessments.
Phase 1 consists of two online exams with multiple-choice and true/false
questions. Phase 2 is a live interview to verify your English proficiency and
practical knowledge. The interview is often the most challenging part, and some
sources report failure rates up to 50% in Phase 2 assessments.
SECTION 1: LIVING
AND WORKING IN MALTA
Questions 1–35
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) and Sette
Giugno (June 7th).
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 (Q16–30)
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.
The minimum speed limit is 30 km/h.
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 emergency number
to call for police, ambulance, or fire services in Malta?
Answer: The number is 112 (the European emergency number).
Q27. 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.
Q28. What is the "Eco
Tax" in Malta?
Answer: It's a waste management fee included in utility bills
for all households.
Q29. Where do you go to register
for your ID card and residency?
Answer: Identity Malta (identita.gov.mt) is the government
agency responsible for this.
Q30. Which government entity
manages the country's electricity supply?
Answer: Enemalta, the state-owned energy company.
Part C: Integration & Legal Essentials (Q31–35)
Q31. 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.
Q32. 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).
Q33. 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.
Q34. 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.
Q35. 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.
SECTION 2: RIGHTS
AND OBLIGATIONS AT THE WORKPLACE
Questions 36–70
Part A: Employment Contracts &
Working Conditions (Q36–50)
Q36. 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.
Q37. 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.
Q38. 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.
Q39. What is the standard maximum
working week in Malta (excluding overtime)?
Answer: The standard maximum is 40 hours per week.
Q40. 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.
Q41. 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.
Q42. 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.
Q43. 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.
Q44. 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.
Q45. 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.
Q46. 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.
Q47. 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.
Q48. 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.
Q49. 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.
Q50. 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 (Q51–60)
Q51. 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.
Q52. 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.
Q53. 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.
Q54. 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).
Q55. 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.
Q56. 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.
Q57. 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.
Q58. 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.
Q59. 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.
Q60. 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 (Q61–70)
Q61. 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.
Q62. 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.
Q63. What is
"victimization" in the context of discrimination?
Answer: Punishing an employee for making a complaint about
discrimination or supporting someone else's complaint.
Q64. 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.
Q65. 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.
Q66. 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.
Q67. 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.
Q68. 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.
Q69. 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.
Q70. 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 71–100
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.
Q71. 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.
Q72. 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.
Q73. 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.
Q74. 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).
Q75. 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.
Q76. 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."
Q77. 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.
Q78. 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.
Q79. 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.
Q80. 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."
Q81. 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."
Q82. 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?"
Q83. 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."
Q84. 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.
Q85. 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."
Q86. What is the "Skills
Pass" and who needs it?
Answer: The Skills
Pass is a sector-specific certification required for certain
occupations, primarily in Tourism and
Hospitality. It includes additional online modules and assessments
beyond the Pre-Departure Course.
Q87. If you are applying to work
in the tourism sector, what additional requirements must you complete?
Answer: In addition to the Pre-Departure Course, you must
complete the second part of the Skills Pass linked to that sector, which includes
additional online modules and assessments.
Q88. What is the purpose of the
Phase 2 interview?
Answer: The Phase 2 interview verifies your English language proficiency and
confirms your understanding of the course content. It checks that you are actually
ready for the role you've been hired for.
Q89. How long is the Phase 2
interview?
Answer: The Phase 2 interview is a 20-minute live interview conducted online or in-person
at a VFS centre.
Q90. What happens if you fail an
assessment?
Answer: Candidates have 2 free trials. If you fail both times, you would need
to pay for a third attempt. If you also fail on the third attempt, you will be
blocked from the system for a month and would need to pay the same fee again.
Q91. Can Phase 2 be done before
completing Phase 1?
Answer: No, Phase 2 must be done after Phase 1 is completed. Bookings for Phase 2 are
made through the portal after successful completion of Phase 1.
Q92. What is the
"Suitability Check" conducted by Jobsplus?
Answer: The Suitability Check is an additional requirement
where all applicants must provide documentation in specific categories to
Jobsplus. They may request further documentation as necessary.
Q93. What are the consequences
for employers who breach workers' rights?
Answer: Employers found to have breached workers' rights may
be disqualified from applying for third-country workers. Fines for employment
law breaches have increased from €232-€2,329 to €2,000-€5,000.
Q94. What is the new requirement
for payment of wages to TCNs?
Answer: For employment relationships commencing after 1st
October 2025, wages earned by TCNs must be paid exclusively by bank transfer to an account held in
the employee's name.
Q95. What is urgent family leave
entitlement in Malta?
Answer: Employees are entitled to 32 hours of urgent family leave per year (increased
from 15 hours), effective 4th April 2025.
Q96. Who needs to take the
broader "I Belong" integration course?
Answer: TCNs who wish to renew their work permit for more
than one year will need to take part in this 40-42 hour course covering Maltese
culture and language.
Q97. What topics are covered in
the broader integration course?
Answer: Topics include Maltese culture and traditions, civic
participation, legal and safety awareness, personal and professional
development, language learning (English and Maltese), personal budgeting,
Malta's democracy and institutional framework, and rights and responsibilities
as tenants.
Q98. How is an
"employee" defined under Maltese law?
Answer: An employee is defined as "any person who has
entered into or works under a contract of service, or any person who has
undertaken personally to execute any work or service for, and under the
immediate direction and control of another person."
Q99. What is a Wage Regulation Order
(WRO)?
Answer: WROs are sector-specific regulations that establish
minimum wages, overtime rates, special allowances, and leave entitlements for
specific industries such as wholesale and retail, public transport,
construction, and hospitality.
Q100. When did the Pre-Departure
Course become mandatory?
Answer: The Pre-Departure Portal opened on 5 January 2026. From 1 March 2026, Identity Malta started
verifying certificates as part of the work permit process.
QUICK REFERENCE
SUMMARY
|
Section |
Questions |
Focus Area |
|
Section 1 |
1–35 |
Living and Working in Malta |
|
Section 2 |
36–70 |
Rights and Obligations at the Workplace |
|
Section 3 |
71–100 |
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 course topics thoroughly |
|
Phase 2 |
Live Online Interview |
20 minutes |
Practice scenario-based questions |
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