Imagine starting your workday under the Mediterranean sun, surrounded by history, culture, and a thriving food scene that welcomes talent from around the world.
Malta’s fast-growing restaurant industry is opening doors for international workers as new restaurants launch across the island. From chefs and bartenders to waitstaff and restaurant managers, employers are offering competitive monthly salaries between €1,000 and €3,500, performance bonuses, and visa sponsorship to attract skilled and motivated professionals.
More than just a paycheck, restaurant jobs in Malta offer hands-on learning, international exposure, and a lifestyle many only dream about. For those ready to work hard and grow fast, this is a chance to turn hospitality skills into a long-term European career.
Why Work in Malta’s Restaurant Industry?
- Competitive Salaries: €1,000–€3,500 per month depending on role and experience.
- Performance-Based Bonuses: Incentives for exceptional service.
- Career Development: Pathways from junior roles to head chef or restaurant manager.
- Hands-On Culinary Training: Learn modern cooking techniques and hospitality standards.
- Dynamic Environment: Work with locals and international tourists in popular areas like St. George’s Bay and Mdina’s historic squares.
- Lifestyle Benefits: Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, warm weather, and cultural experiences while gaining valuable professional skills.
Available Restaurant Positions in Malta
1. Chef de Cuisine (Head Chef)
- Leads the kitchen, designs menus, supervises staff, and ensures quality standards.
- Visa Sponsorship Available for experienced chefs in fine-dining and international cuisine.
2. Sous Chef
- Supports the head chef in daily operations, food prep, and staff coordination.
- High demand across Malta, especially in tourist hotspots like Sliema waterfront restaurants.
3. Restaurant Manager
- Oversees operations, staff training, and financial performance.
- Experienced managers are highly valued and often receive visa sponsorship.
4. Front-of-House Roles
- Waitstaff, bartenders, hosts/hostesses provide excellent customer service, manage reservations, and create welcoming dining experiences.
5. Back-of-House Roles
- Kitchen porters, pastry chefs, sommeliers, and catering coordinators ensure smooth operations and quality output.
Requirements for Restaurant Jobs in Malta
- Work Experience: Previous experience in hospitality is highly valued.
- Educational Background: Culinary arts, hospitality, or management qualifications strengthen applications.
- Language: English is essential; Maltese or Italian is a plus.
- Visa Eligibility: A clean immigration history and valid passport are required.
- Certifications: Food safety, hygiene, or handling certificates may be necessary for kitchen roles.
- Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, adaptability, and customer service abilities.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to work long shifts, weekends, and busy tourist seasons.
Visa & Work Permit Options for Restaurant Staff
Malta Single Permit
- Combines work and residence authorization for up to one year (renewable).
- Sponsored by the hiring restaurant for non-EU workers in hospitality.
Visa Sponsorship for Chefs & Managers
- Restaurants sponsor skilled chefs with expertise in specialized cuisines.
- Managers with hospitality experience are also eligible for sponsorship.
Seasonal Restaurant Jobs
- May–October is peak season for tourism; many restaurants hire seasonal staff with short-term contracts and visa support.
How to Find Restaurant Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
- Job Portals
- JobsPlus, Keepmeposted Malta, MaltaPark, eJobs Malta
- Search:
"waiter jobs Malta visa sponsorship"or"chef jobs Malta work permit"
- Recruitment Agencies
- MRecruitment, SpotOn Connections, Konnekt
- Assist with work permits and visa sponsorship
- LinkedIn & Facebook Groups
- Join “Jobs in Malta for Foreigners” or “Malta Hospitality Jobs 2026”
- Direct Applications
- Apply on restaurant websites or local classifieds
- Walk-in CV submissions are common in tourist areas like St. Julian’s Paceville
Malta Restaurant Jobs: Salary & Benefits
| Role | Salary Range | Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Waiter / Waitress | €1,000–€1,800 | Tips, performance bonuses |
| Bartender | €1,200–€2,000 | Tips, training |
| Sous Chef | €1,800–€2,800 | Visa sponsorship, training, career growth |
| Head Chef | €2,500–€3,500 | Visa sponsorship, leadership role |
| Restaurant Manager | €2,000–€3,500 | Visa sponsorship, career advancement |
Tips to Succeed in Malta’s Food Industry
- Highlight first-hand experience: mention past restaurants or projects.
- Use local references: include landmarks like Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens or Marsaxlokk Harbour.
- Be adaptable: tourism demand changes seasonally.
- Present yourself professionally and maintain high service standards.
Conclusion
Malta’s restaurant business is looking for driven individuals since it offers excellent salary, visa sponsorship, career chances, and the opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most stunning locations. There is a place for you in Malta’s thriving food service industry, regardless of your level of experience, from seasoned chefs to adept managers to those looking to begin in an entry-level position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Maltese to work in Malta restaurants?
No. English is widely spoken and usually enough, though knowing Maltese or Italian helps.
How much can I earn working in Malta restaurants?
Salaries range from €1,000 to €3,500 per month, plus tips and bonuses depending on role and experience.