How do you get a social security number in Malta in 2026?

Since late 2016, holders of permanent Maltese identity cards in the M, L, G, or H series no longer receive a separate SSN. Their identity card number serves that role. Foreign residents whose residence card ends in A, and people without a permanent Maltese card, still need an SSN for contributions.

You become eligible when you start employment or self-occupied work and do not already hold an SSN. The number is issued once and stays for life. Do not invent a second number if you worked in Malta years ago; ask the Department to recover the old one.

When an employer or self-employed person files an online Engagement Form with Jobsplus, personal details can pass digitally to the Department of Social Security. If you are eligible and your name, address, and date of birth match Identità records, the Department may issue the SSN automatically without a separate visit.

Official guidance stresses correct Identità data. If the engagement form includes a valid Maltese identity or residence card number, contact paths are simpler. If no card number is present, an email address and passport number help the Department reach you and push you toward card registration. Once Identità issues the card and Jobsplus is updated, the SSN request can be resubmitted.

Apply through the Social Security Number eForm on socialsecurity.gov.mt, or visit a Servizz.gov hub with the documents listed for your nationality and status. Typical uploads include photo ID, Jobsplus engagement or promise of employment, and residence or work authorisation from Identità when your route requires it. Self-employed foreigners often need the employment licence papers listed on the form checklist.

Keep Apply for a residence permit moving in parallel. Banks and some employers still ask for the eResidence card even after SSN letters arrive: Open a bank account. Paying contributions is also the usual door into public care for workers: Enrol in public healthcare.