The rule: 1.5x beyond 40 hours a week
In Malta normal weekly hours are 40. Where an employee's overtime rate is not covered by a sector-specific Wage Regulation Order (W.R.O.) or collective agreement, the default statutory rate is one and a half times (150%) the normal rate for work beyond a 40-hour week (averaged over a four-week period or the shift cycle). Total working time, including overtime, must not exceed an average of 48 hours a week over a 17-week reference period unless the employee signs an individual opt-out.
Overtime rate table
| Ordinary hour (up to 40/week) | 1.0x |
| Overtime (beyond 40/week, no W.R.O.) | 1.5x (150%) |
| Maximum average week (incl. OT) | 48 hours |
Worked example
At €10.00/hour, 5 overtime hours in a week = 5 × €10.00 × 1.5 = €75.00 added to your ordinary pay. Many sectors have a W.R.O. that may set a different rate — check yours.
Limits, exemptions and who to contact
Wage Regulation Orders for specific sectors can set a different overtime rate, so the 1.5x default applies only where none exists. Complaints go to the Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).
- What is the statutory overtime rate in Malta?
- 1.5x (150%) of the normal rate beyond 40 hours a week, where no Wage Regulation Order applies.
- Can my rate be different?
- Yes — a sector Wage Regulation Order or collective agreement can set another rate.
- What is the maximum working week?
- An average of 48 hours including overtime, unless you opt out in writing.
- Who enforces it?
- The Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).