Nursing Bridging Programs in Malta: Your Gateway to EU Nursing Registration
Malta presents an excellent opportunity for international nurses seeking to align their qualifications with European Union standards. Below are the top universities offering nursing adaptation programs tailored for non-EU/EEA nurses.
University of Malta (Public University)
Program Highlights
- Course Name: Certificate for Graduates of Non-EU/EEA Nursing Programs
- Course Type: Bridging/Adaptation Program
- Duration: 4 Months
- Application Fee: €150
- Tuition Fee: €5,400
- MQF Level: Level 5
- Intake: October
- Eligibility: Nursing diploma, degree, or postgraduate qualification
- Experience Requirement: Verified clinical experience
- Clinical & Theory Hours: 1533 theory hours & 2300 clinical hours (as per transcript)
- English Language Requirements: IELTS Academic (Overall 6, Writing 6, others 5.5+) OR OET (Speaking – B, Reading/Listening/Writing – C+)
Why Choose This Program?
This program ensures nurses acquire the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to meet EU standards. Graduates can apply for registration with the Maltese Council of Nurses & Midwives, opening doors to job opportunities across the EU.
Career Prospects
After gaining five years of experience as a registered nurse, graduates can apply for an EU Blue Card, providing residency benefits similar to a US Green Card.
MCAST (Public University)
Program Highlights
- Course Name: Undergraduate Certificate in Nursing Studies
- Course Type: Bridging/Adaptation Program
- Duration: 6 Months
- Application Fee: €150
- Tuition Fee: €5,400
- MQF Level: Level 6
- Intake: April
- Eligibility: Nursing diploma, degree, or postgraduate qualification
- Experience Requirement: Verified clinical experience
- Clinical & Theory Hours: 1533 theory hours & 2300 clinical hours (as per transcript)
- English Language Requirements: IELTS Academic (Overall 6) OR OET (Speaking – B, Reading/Listening/Writing – C+)
Why Choose This Program?
This course follows EU Directive 2005-36-EC, ensuring international nurses meet EU nursing standards. It emphasizes teamwork, quality healthcare, ethical decision-making, and specialized nursing knowledge.
Core Study Areas
- Multidisciplinary Approaches in Healthcare
- Quality Assurance in Nursing
- Ethical Decision-Making
- Gerontology & Mental Health
Career Prospects
Graduates can register with the Maltese Nursing Council and work across the EU. After five years, they become eligible for an EU Blue Card.
IDEA Academy (Private Institution
Program Highlights
- Course Name: BSc Nursing Top-Up
- Course Type: Pathway for Nursing Registration
- Duration: 1 Year
- Application Fee: €150
- Tuition Fee: €6,000
- MQF Level: Level 6
- Intake: March
- Eligibility: Nursing diploma (GNM)
- English Language Requirements: Medium of Instruction (MOI) accepted, but IELTS Academic (Overall 6) is needed for nursing registration
Why Choose This Program?
This program enhances nurses’ skills in critical thinking, research, and evidence-based practices.
Core Study Areas
- Social Demographic Trends in Nursing
- Leadership & Team Management in Healthcare
- Research & Evidence-Based Nursing
- Bioethics & Mental Health
- Nurse as an Educator
Pathway to Nursing Registration
- Fulfill the English language requirement (IELTS/OET).
- Apply to the Maltese Nursing Council.
- Attend an interview.
- Complete 200 hours of clinical practice.
- Obtain an RN license, recognized across the EU.
Admission, Visa & Nurse Registration Process
Step-by-Step Admission Guide
- Submit an application with academic and experience certificates.
- Pay the application fee.
- Receive an offer letter.
- Pay tuition fees.
- Obtain an acceptance letter.
- Apply for a student visa via VFS.
Nurse Registration Process in Malta
- Schedule an appointment with the Maltese Nursing Council.
- Submit required documents.
- Attend and pass the interview.
- Obtain an RN certificate valid across the EU.
UK Work Opportunities
After one year of experience as an RN in Malta, candidates can apply for UK nursing registration. Since Malta is recognized as an English-speaking country, IELTS/OET is waived. Candidates need only to pass the CBT and OSCE exams.
Why Malta?
- English-Speaking Nation – No language barriers.
- Pleasant Climate – Enjoy warm weather most of the year.
- Professional Growth – Work in one of the EU’s wealthiest nations.
- Job Prospects – Students can work 15-20 hours per week while studying.
- Post-Study Work Options – Stay in Malta for six months to find a job.
- Pathway to the EU & UK – Transition easily to other EU countries or apply for direct RN registration in the UK.
- Permanent Residency (PR) Options – Apply for an EU Blue Card after five years.
Post-Study Work Benefits
International students can work part-time after 90 days of study. After completing their program, they can stay in Malta for six months to secure employment.
Malta serves as an excellent gateway for international nurses to build a rewarding career in Europe. If you’re considering advancing your nursing career in an EU country, these programs offer a structured and reliable pathway!
