VALLETTA: Malta has announced plans to implement a skills card requirement for foreign carers engaged in elderly care, effective March 2024. The move aims to enhance the quality of care while streamlining employment procedures for the sector, according to the Active Aging Minister, Jo Etienne Abela.
The decision comes in response to the increasing life expectancy in Malta, resulting in a growing demand for elderly care services. Families often face challenges in hiring carers due to prolonged waiting times and bureaucratic processes.
The skills card initiative aims to simplify the recruitment process for foreign carers by introducing a parallel system. The authorities will assess applicants’ language proficiency and professional skills to ensure they meet the necessary requirements.
Skills Card for Foreign Carers in Malta
Minister Abela emphasized that improving the engagement of carers is a key priority for the government in 2024. The skills card, set to be introduced in March, is considered a pivotal tool in achieving this objective.
Last year, the Maltese government also approved plans to implement a skills card requirement for workers from non-EU countries in the hospitality and tourism industry. Furthermore, the skills card requirement will be extended to include EU citizens and Maltese citizens by 2025.
To obtain the skills card, foreign workers in the elderly care sector will undergo a comprehensive training and assessment program. This program includes an English language test and provides basic knowledge of Maltese phrases. The government aims to ensure that foreign workers possess the necessary language and professional skills required for effective caregiving.
