Budget 2027 explained
Malta Budget 2027: what changes for TCNs
Budget 2027 brings new fees and fewer benefits for third country nationals (TCNs) in Malta. Here is what was announced, in plain words, and where you can say what you think about it.
Budget 2027 measures that affect TCNs
| Measure | What was announced |
|---|---|
| Public transport | From January 2027, free travel only for Maltese citizens, EU citizens living in Malta and long term residents. Reports put the charge for other TCNs at €33 a month. |
| Yearly contribution | A new €400 a year contribution for TCNs applying for or renewing a work permit. |
| Work permit fee | New applications rise from €600 to €800 per person. |
| Driving licence | A €83 monthly administrative charge on Category B and B1 licences for most TCNs, plus a 12 month limit on driving with a non EU licence. |
| Childcare | Free childcare limited to Maltese citizens, EU citizens living in Malta and long term residents. Children already enrolled keep it. |
| In work benefit | The Atypical In Work Benefit limited to Maltese citizens, EU citizens and long term residents. |
Who is affected?
Most measures apply to TCNs who are not long term residents, which usually means people who have lived in Malta for less than five years. Exact start dates and details depend on the final legal notices, so check official sources before making decisions.
What do TCNs think?
CountUs Malta asks TCNs directly: will you pay for the bus, who will pay the €400, how does the childcare change affect your family, and should TCNs take collective action. The combined, anonymous results are shared with government entities and the media.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Do TCNs in Malta still get free public transport in 2027?
According to Budget 2027, from January 2027 free public transport is kept for Maltese citizens, EU citizens living in Malta and long term residents. Reports describe a €33 monthly charge for other TCNs.
What is the €400 infrastructure contribution?
Budget 2027 announced a yearly €400 contribution paid by third country nationals applying for or renewing a work permit.
How much is a work permit in Malta in 2027?
The fee for a new work permit application was announced to rise from €600 to €800 per person.
What is the €83 driving licence charge?
Budget 2027 announced a €83 monthly administrative charge on Category B and B1 driving licences for most TCNs. EU and EEA citizens, long term residents and some other groups are exempt.
Do TCN children still get free childcare?
Free childcare is being limited to Maltese citizens, EU citizens living in Malta and long term residents. Children already enrolled keep it, but new TCN families are affected.
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