Under the agreement signed on 16th April, 2003 between Malta and the European Union, Malta had obtained derogation for a transitional period of seven years during which it can refuse work permits even to EU nationals. Malta also negotiated a further safeguard that applies permanently after this seven year period.
Since January 2001 Malta did not apply for an extension of this derogation and hence any EU national can now reside and work in Malta. The only formality required is that such employment be advised to the Employment and Trading Corporation (ETC) on the requisite form.