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Why Malta is a Leading Jurisdiction for Online Gaming Licences
Malta is a global hub for online gaming, offering a well-regulated framework through the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). To operate legally, gaming companies must obtain a Malta gaming licence, which is issued under the Gaming Act and covers both B2C gaming services and B2B critical gaming supply.
The MGA licence ensures compliance with responsible gaming standards, gaming licence fees regulations, and all operational and statutory requirements. A2CO guides you through the Malta gaming licence application process, helping you meet regulatory obligations and launch your gaming business with confidence.
Why Malta Is a Global Leader in Online Gaming Regulation
Malta is widely recognised as a premier jurisdiction for online gaming companies. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is responsible for regulating gaming activities in Malta. It provides a robust legal framework for both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) operators offering remote gaming services.
A Malta gaming licence is considered one of the most respected in the industry. It enables companies to operate legally across multiple jurisdictions while ensuring compliance with the laws of Malta. The MGA licence covers gaming tax requirements, player protection, and responsible gaming principles. A2CO offers full guidance throughout the Malta gaming licence application process to help you launch your gaming business with confidence.
Understanding the Malta Gaming Authority and Licence Types
The Malta Gaming Authority issues two main categories of licences:
- Gaming Service Licence: Required for online gambling operators that offer games directly to players.
- Critical Gaming Supply Licence: Required for companies that provide essential technology or services to gaming operators, such as gaming platforms, software, or control systems.
Each licence issued by the MGA may include one or more authorised verticals:
- Type 1: Games of chance played against the house with random number generation, such as slots, lotteries, and virtual casino games.
- Type 2: Games of chance played against the house with outcomes based on real-world events, including fixed-odds sports betting.
- Type 3: Games not played against the house, including poker, bingo, and betting exchanges, where operators earn commissions.
- Type 4: Controlled skill games such as fantasy sports.
Operators can apply for multiple verticals under one licence. Each type of licence is subject to specific operational and statutory requirements.
Malta Gaming Licence Application Procedure
Forming a Company and Establishing Local Presence
To apply for a Malta gaming licence, applicants must form a company established within the European Union or European Economic Area. A2CO supports full company setup, including Malta company formation and local presence arrangements.
Preparing the Gaming Licence Application
The MGA application process requires comprehensive documentation submitted through the Authority’s Licensee Portal. Required documents include:
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A detailed business plan
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Statutory incorporation documents
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Organisational structure and shareholding chart
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Descriptions of the gaming platform, games, and control systems
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Compliance and risk management frameworks
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AML and responsible gaming procedures
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Appointment of key persons for MGA Key Function roles
The Fit and Proper Test
The MGA performs due diligence on all shareholders, directors, ultimate beneficial owners, and individuals responsible for compliance and operations. This includes checks with international regulatory bodies and law enforcement authorities.
Review of Business and Operational Setup
The MGA evaluates whether the applicant meets the operational and statutory requirements under the Gaming Act. Areas of review include system architecture, gaming risk controls, technical documentation, and responsible gaming policies. At this stage, A2CO assists in preparing supporting materials such as your AML policy drafting and procedures manuals.
The MGA System Audit
Once the application is approved, the applicant must implement their system in a live environment. The operator has 60 days to request a System Audit by an MGA-approved third party. The audit checks for alignment between the licensed setup and the deployed platform. Following successful certification, the MGA issues a 10-year licence.
Forming a Company and Establishing Local Presence
To apply for a Malta gaming licence, applicants must form a company established within the European Union or European Economic Area. A2CO supports full company setup, including Malta company formation and local presence arrangements.
Preparing the Gaming Licence Application
The MGA application process requires comprehensive documentation submitted through the Authority’s Licensee Portal. Required documents include:
-
A detailed business plan
-
Statutory incorporation documents
-
Organisational structure and shareholding chart
-
Descriptions of the gaming platform, games, and control systems
-
Compliance and risk management frameworks
-
AML and responsible gaming procedures
-
Appointment of key persons for MGA Key Function roles
The Fit and Proper Test
The MGA performs due diligence on all shareholders, directors, ultimate beneficial owners, and individuals responsible for compliance and operations. This includes checks with international regulatory bodies and law enforcement authorities.
Review of Business and Operational Setup
The MGA evaluates whether the applicant meets the operational and statutory requirements under the Gaming Act. Areas of review include system architecture, gaming risk controls, technical documentation, and responsible gaming policies. At this stage, A2CO assists in preparing supporting materials such as your AML policy drafting and procedures manuals.
The MGA System Audit
Once the application is approved, the applicant must implement their system in a live environment. The operator has 60 days to request a System Audit by an MGA-approved third party. The audit checks for alignment between the licensed setup and the deployed platform. Following successful certification, the MGA issues a 10-year licence.
Malta Gaming Licence Cost, Capital Requirements and Fees
Share Capital Requirements
To ensure financial integrity, licence holders must meet specific minimum capital requirements:
| Licence Type | Minimum Capital |
|---|---|
| Type 1 or 2 Gaming Service Licence | €100,000 |
| Type 3 or 4 Gaming Service Licence | €40,000 |
| Critical Gaming Supply Licence (B2B) | €40,000 |
| Maximum required (capped) | €240,000 |
These requirements apply to the licence holder’s issued and paid-up capital.
Licence Fees and Financial Contributions
The application Fee is €5,000 and is non-refundable. Additionally, annual licence fees include:
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€25,000 for B2C licences (or €10,000 for Type 4 only)
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Between €25,000 and €35,000 for B2B licences based on revenue
-
Lower fees apply for specific software-only suppliers
In addition to the licence fee, a gaming tax of 5% applies to the gaming revenue generated from players based in Malta. A compliance contribution is also payable, calculated on a progressive scale based on the gross gaming revenue declared for each vertical.
All licence fees and financial contributions must be paid annually and in accordance with MGA regulations. A2CO assists with tax advisory and reporting under VAT registration and compliance services in Malta.
Ongoing Obligations for Licensed Gaming Operations
Holding a licence from the Malta Gaming Authority means adhering to strict ongoing obligations, including:
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Annual Compliance Audit by an approved third party
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Audited Financial Statements prepared under IFRS
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Interim financial reporting and monthly gaming tax declarations
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Player fund reports and segregation of player balances
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AML monitoring and suspicious transaction reporting to the FIAU
-
Regular Industry Performance Returns (IPRs) submitted every six months
-
Notification of material changes including system updates, ownership changes, or key function appointments
Non-compliance may result in enforcement action by the MGA, ranging from warnings to licence suspension. A2CO helps clients remain compliant through regulator compliance visit preparation and reporting support.
Share Capital Requirements
To ensure financial integrity, licence holders must meet specific minimum capital requirements:
| Licence Type | Minimum Capital |
|---|---|
| Type 1 or 2 Gaming Service Licence | €100,000 |
| Type 3 or 4 Gaming Service Licence | €40,000 |
| Critical Gaming Supply Licence (B2B) | €40,000 |
| Maximum required (capped) | €240,000 |
These requirements apply to the licence holder’s issued and paid-up capital.
Licence Fees and Financial Contributions
The application Fee is €5,000 and is non-refundable. Additionally, annual licence fees include:
-
€25,000 for B2C licences (or €10,000 for Type 4 only)
-
Between €25,000 and €35,000 for B2B licences based on revenue
-
Lower fees apply for specific software-only suppliers
In addition to the licence fee, a gaming tax of 5% applies to the gaming revenue generated from players based in Malta. A compliance contribution is also payable, calculated on a progressive scale based on the gross gaming revenue declared for each vertical.
All licence fees and financial contributions must be paid annually and in accordance with MGA regulations. A2CO assists with tax advisory and reporting under VAT registration and compliance services in Malta.
Ongoing Obligations for Licensed Gaming Operations
Holding a licence from the Malta Gaming Authority means adhering to strict ongoing obligations, including:
-
Annual Compliance Audit by an approved third party
-
Audited Financial Statements prepared under IFRS
-
Interim financial reporting and monthly gaming tax declarations
-
Player fund reports and segregation of player balances
-
AML monitoring and suspicious transaction reporting to the FIAU
-
Regular Industry Performance Returns (IPRs) submitted every six months
-
Notification of material changes including system updates, ownership changes, or key function appointments
Non-compliance may result in enforcement action by the MGA, ranging from warnings to licence suspension. A2CO helps clients remain compliant through regulator compliance visit preparation and reporting support.
Malta Gambling Licence Services Offered by A2CO
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Full Licence Application Support: We prepare, review, and submit your Malta gaming licence application, ensuring that all regulatory expectations are met from the outset
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Licence Structure and Vertical Advisory: We help you select the most appropriate licence type and game verticals for your online gambling business model.
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AML, Risk and Policy Development: Our experts assist in developing documentation and procedures that align with the MGA’s AML/CFT and responsible gaming standards.
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Audit Preparation and System Deployment: We coordinate with MGA-approved auditors and ensure your gaming system is ready for a successful System Audit.
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Post-Licence Compliance and Reporting: From monthly tax filings to key function changes, we support all aspects of ongoing licence maintenance.
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Company Formation and Local Infrastructure: We handle company setup, physical presence, and directorships via our directorship and company secretary services.
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Strategic Advisory for Online Gaming Companies: We assist in licensing strategy, expansion planning, and regulatory alignment for long-term growth.
Why Work with A2CO on Your MGA Licence
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Specialised expertise in the Maltese gaming regulatory framework
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End-to-end support, including documentation, system design, and audit readiness
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Experience with both B2C and B2B operators across all MGA game types
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Liaising with MGA to streamline your communication and timelines
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Time-saving processes that avoid common mistakes and delays
Frequently Asked Questions
Applicants must be EU or EEA-based, meet capital thresholds, submit full documentation through the MGA portal, and pass the Authority’s system audit and compliance checks.
A non-refundable application fee of €5,000 applies, with annual licence fees starting from €10,000 to €35,000 depending on the licence type and revenue. Additional gaming taxes and compliance contributions apply.
By forming a company in Malta or the EU, submitting an application with a business plan, technical setup, and responsible gaming policies, and undergoing the MGA's review process.
B2C licences are for operators offering services directly to players, while B2B licences are for those supplying gaming platforms or software under the critical gaming supply category.
Most applications are completed within four to six months, depending on documentation quality and audit readiness.
Yes. Malta offers EU-level regulation, rigorous supervision by the Malta Gaming Authority, and a reputation that builds trust with payment providers and investors.
