Can an employee's start date fall on a weekend or public holiday in Malta?

In Malta, an employee's start date cannot fall on a weekend or public holiday unless the employee is hired specifically to work on public holidays or weekends.

Is there a statutory probationary period in Malta and can it be extended or removed? Can the probationary period differ for various job titles or employment agreement types?

In Malta, the statutory probationary period generally lasts 6 months. However, for employees who hold administrative, executive, technical, or managerial posts and whose wages are at least double the minimum wage established in that year, the probationary period can extend up to 1 year unless otherwise specified in the employment agreement or collective agreement.

The probationary period details are as follows:

• Indefinite-term Employment Agreement: For employees holding technical, executive, administrative, or managerial posts with wages at least double the minimum wage, the probationary period is 1 year unless a shorter period is agreed upon in the applicable employment agreement.
• Fixed-term Employment Relationships: The length of the probationary period is proportionate to the expected duration of the employment agreement and the nature of the work. If the employment agreement is renewed for the same function and tasks, the employment relationship is not subject to another probationary period.

Specific categories for fixed-term employment agreements are:

1. Fixed-term Employment Agreement Less than 6 Months: No fixed-term employment agreement can be shorter than 6 months unless a shorter period is justified. If permitted, the probationary period will be 1/3 of the duration of the fixed-term employment agreement.

2. Fixed-term Employment Agreement Between 6-15 Months: The probationary period is calculated based on 2 months of probation for every 6 months of work duration.

3. Fixed-term Employment Agreement More than 15 Months: The probationary period is 6 months.

The probationary period can be extended by means of an addendum.

Are employment agreements mandated to be registered with a regulatory authority in Malta? If yes, what is the process for registration?

In Malta, employment agreements are not mandated to be registered with a regulatory authority. However, employers are required to notify Jobsplus, the national employment agency, about the commencement of employment. After signing, certain steps must be taken to ensure that the employment agreement is recognized within the governmental system, though specific registration with a regulatory authority is not necessary.

What is Pebl's onboarding timeline in Malta?

Pebl's onboarding timeline in Malta is approximately 5 days, assuming there are no delays from the supported employee or the customer.