Gambling License in Malta
Malta is a leading EU jurisdiction for online gambling, offering low taxes, a strong legal framework, and support for crypto-friendly operations. Its international reputation makes it ideal for businesses aiming at global markets.
The licensing process can be complex and requires local expertise. Adam Smith offers full support to streamline the procedure, with licenses typically issued within 4–6 months.
Get a Gambling licensing offer Get an offerMalta offers efficient approval timelines, allowing your gambling or crypto business to become operational in as little as 4–6 months. Streamlined procedures reduce delays and speed up market entry.
With clear, supportive legislation, Malta is ideal for innovative operators in the crypto and gaming sectors. The legal framework is built for scalability and long-term growth.
Navigate Malta’s regulatory landscape with confidence. Adam Smith provides end-to-end support, from documentation to final approval, ensuring a smooth and compliant licensing process.
Malta Gambling License – 2025 Overview
Malta is an independent jurisdiction with full authority over its gambling regulation, company formation, and tax system. It has built a clear and stable legal framework that supports both startups and established operators in the gambling sector. The country is recognized for its predictable procedures, business-friendly environment, and long-standing reputation as a trusted hub for international gaming businesses.
The current gambling framework was introduced in 2018 under the Gaming Act. Licensing and supervision are managed by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), which oversees hundreds of active licensees across various sectors, including online casinos, sportsbooks, and B2B service providers. Malta’s license is widely regarded as a mark of credibility, helping operators gain trust from partners, payment providers, and global investors.
Why Malta for your Gaming Licence?
An MGA gaming licence is widely recognised, highly respected and trusted worldwide, boosts operators’ credibility.
Malta has a tax regime specifically designed for online gaming companies. Companies generally benefit from a corporate tax rate as low as 5% thanks to a tax refund system.
As an EU Member State, Malta has a politically and economically stable jurisdiction built on transparent, predictable and modern gaming regulations.
The Maltese gambling licence gives operators access to players across the EU, significantly increasing the potential customer base.
Malta has a comprehensive and advanced technical infrastructure, ensuring reliable connectivity, secure hosting and support.
The Maltese government supports the gaming industry, continuously updating the framework to keep up with global trends and demands.
Malta has over 70 double taxation treaties to support international business structures and reduce global tax liabilities.
Who should get a Malta Gaming Licence?
Malta’s gaming licences are for businesses wanting to position themselves as serious, compliant and internationally recognised gaming or gambling operators. Operators include B2C gaming companies such as online casinos and poker rooms, sports betting platforms as well as B2B gaming developers, software providers and other industry focused vendors.
For platforms providing virtual gaming activities directly to players, including casinos, sports betting, live dealer games, lotteries and online poker.
For companies offering gaming software, platforms and other backend services to licensed gaming operators.
For businesses looking to offer hosting and platform infrastructure services within the gambling industry
Get Expert Guidance for your Gaming Licence
Our experienced licensing specialists will take responsibility for your MGA license application, guiding you smoothly through all licensing procedures. Our compliance, legal, and corporate management teams ensure every step is executed efficiently, guaranteeing your successful licensing outcome. Ready to launch your MGA licensed gambling business?
Request Expert Consultation Request Expert ConsultationRequirements for a Malta Gaming Licence
To get a Malta Gaming License you need to meet the strict criteria set by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). Before you start, make sure you understand and comply with the following mandatory requirements:
The applicant must incorporate a registered company (Ltd. or similar) in Malta through the official company registration process.
No history of involvement in fraudulent or illegal gambling activities and full beneficial ownership disclosure.
The company must have the required minimum capital (typically €40,000 to €100,000 depending on the license class) to operate efficiently.
Operation setup including local office in Malta, local staff or resident directors and infrastructure (servers and management) in Malta.
Adoption of internal risk management and AML/KYC protocols compliant with local and EU standards.
Secure systems and processes to protect player data privacy, fair gameplay and proactive management of gambling harm.
Annual financial statements, regulatory compliance audits and comprehensive assessment of gaming software and infrastructure.
Full compliance with these requirements is essential to streamline and accelerate the licensing process. Not sure where to start? Adam Smith handles all initial due diligence, compliance reports and prepares your company to meet MGA’s strict licensing requirements efficiently and completely.
Steps to obtaining a Malta Gaming License
Getting a Malta Gaming License is a complex and thorough process. The MGA, a well-known and respected jurisdiction in the EU, has strict standards and rigorous compliance procedures that may seem overwhelming. But with proper preparation and expert guidance, this process can be broken down into key steps.
First you need to incorporate a Maltese company, typically a Private Limited Company (Ltd). This sets the legal and operational framework required by the MGA.
You will validate your business name against existing entities and reserve the name through the Malta Business Registry (MBR).
Get a physical business address in Malta compliant with MGA’s requirements for official correspondence and operational management.
Appoint key persons including a qualified director, company secretary and compliance officer for AML procedures.
Open a corporate bank account in Malta for capital contributions and operational transactions.
Deposit the required minimum share capital for the license class you chose, ensuring sufficient financial backing according to MGA standards.
Pay the government registration fees for your company’s incorporation and license category as per MGA schedule.
Compile and submit all required documents to MGA and MBR including business plan, legal and financial forms, company structure, AML documentation and governance documents.
Upon provisional approval, arrange independent compliance audits and technical system assessments to demonstrate that the operational environment is in line with MGA regulations.
While this process outlines the structured path to a Malta Gaming License, professional consultations will optimize your application process and speed up admission into one of Europe’s most respected gaming markets.
Ready to get your Malta Gaming Licence?
Contact our licensing specialists now to start the simplified process and get your MGA licence today.
Start Your Licensing Process Start Your Licensing ProcessHow much does a Malta Gaming Licence cost?
A Malta Gaming Licence is a valuable asset that gives your business credibility, access to international markets and a competitive edge in the global gambling industry. An Adam Smith we tailor our licensing packages to your business needs and guarantee a smooth process from start to finish. Although the process requires a significant investment, the long term benefits of having one of the world’s most respected gambling licences makes this investment worthwhile.
- Basic Package€38 000 4-6 months
- Advanced Package€50 000 4-6 months
- Turnkey Package (All-Inclusive)3-5 months (priority handling)
Meet Our Team
Behind every successful licensing project is a professional and dedicated team of experts. Each of our team members specialises in gambling licensing and compliance, bringing years of legal and regulatory expertise to guide your business to success. From business analysts to regulatory specialists to AML compliance officers, we ensure a smooth licensing journey.
FAQ: Malta Gaming License FAQs
The Malta Gaming Authority is the regulatory body responsible for all gaming activities licensed in Malta, known worldwide for its integrity and high standards.
Malta offers B2B licenses for providers and game developers and B2C licenses for direct gaming operators, including casinos, sportsbooks and gaming platforms.
Typically 4-6 months depending on the complexity and completeness of the submitted documents.
The full licensing and setup process is around €40,000 including legal, advisory and government fees.
Malta has competitive taxation at 5% corporate tax and 5% gaming revenue from Maltese residents.
MGA licenses facilitate across Europe but national licenses in certain jurisdictions still apply.
Yes, a registered physical office address in Malta is a regulatory requirement.
MGA licenses are 10 years renewable under MGA conditions.
Ongoing regulatory audits, financial statements, AML assessments and regular reporting to MGA are mandatory.
MGA regulation is very strict. Continuous compliance is required in financial, operational and AML procedures.
Get in Touch to Simplify Your Licensing
The MGA licensing process can be complex, time consuming and challenging. Our team an Adam Smith are industry experts delivering comprehensive strategies and professional support from application to operational compliance, ensuring smooth regulatory approval. Let’s grow your business together.
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