Intergroup
Company Formation

Malta Company Formation

Establish your company in Malta — an EU member state offering an effective 5% corporate tax rate through its unique refund system. We handle the entire process from name search to MBR registration.

Why incorporate in Malta?

Malta's full imputation and refund system allows non-resident shareholders to claim a 6/7ths refund of the 35% corporate tax paid, reducing the effective rate to approximately 5%. As a full EU member, Malta provides access to the Single Market, EU passporting for financial services and a network of over 70 double-taxation treaties.

Maltese corporate law is based on English common law, providing a familiar and predictable legal framework. The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) offers a well-respected regulatory environment — particularly attractive for fintech, gaming, funds and insurance. There are no restrictions on foreign shareholding, and a private limited company requires just one shareholder and one director.

~5%

Effective tax rate

EU

Full member state

70+

Tax treaties

3–5 days

Registration

Effective 5% tax rate

Malta's full imputation and refund system means that non-resident shareholders can claim a 6/7ths refund, reducing the effective corporate tax rate to approximately 5%.

EU member state

As a full EU member, Malta offers access to the Single Market, EU passporting for financial services and a network of 70+ double-taxation treaties.

Full foreign ownership

No restrictions on foreign shareholding. A single shareholder and a single director are sufficient for a private limited company.

English common-law base

Maltese corporate law draws heavily on English common law, providing a familiar, predictable framework complemented by EU directives.

Strong regulatory framework

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) provides a well-respected regulatory environment — key for fintech, gaming, funds and insurance.

Strategic Mediterranean location

Situated between Europe and North Africa, Malta offers excellent connectivity, a bilingual (English/Maltese) workforce and competitive operating costs.

Malta company formation

Setup costs depend on your specific structure and requirements. Contact us for a personalised quotation.

Malta Company Formation

Malta company formation costs vary based on the share capital, compliance requirements and any regulatory licences needed. We'll analyse your situation and provide a detailed cost breakdown.

The incorporation process

A clear, guided path from first consultation to a fully registered Malta company.

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    Day 1

    We discuss your objectives, recommend the optimal structure (Ltd, holding, trading) and outline the documentation required.

  2. 2

    Name search & reservation

    1–2 days

    We check name availability with the Malta Business Registry (MBR) and reserve your chosen company name.

  3. 3

    Document preparation

    2–3 days

    We draft the Memorandum & Articles of Association, shareholder agreements and all statutory forms.

  4. 4

    KYC & due diligence

    3–5 days

    We collect certified identification, proof of address, source-of-funds documentation and professional references for all beneficial owners.

  5. 5

    Capital deposit & registration

    3–5 days

    The minimum share capital is deposited in a Maltese bank. The Memorandum is notarised and filed with the MBR.

  6. 6

    Company activation

    1–2 days

    Upon registration you receive the Certificate of Registration, company number and tax registration. We can also arrange VAT registration if needed.

What you'll need

Comprehensive documentation — we'll guide you through every step.

Individual shareholders / directors

  • Certified copy of passport
  • Proof of residential address (< 3 months)
  • Bank reference letter
  • CV / professional profile
  • Source of funds / wealth declaration

Corporate shareholders

  • Certificate of Incorporation (certified)
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • Register of directors, shareholders & UBOs
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Board resolution authorising the investment

Company details

  • Proposed company name (2–3 alternatives)
  • Detailed description of intended business activities
  • Proposed share capital (minimum €1,165 for a private company)
  • Composition of board of directors

Advantages

  • Effective 5% corporate tax rate through the refund system
  • Full EU membership — Single Market access & EU passporting
  • 70+ double-taxation treaties
  • English-speaking, business-friendly environment
  • Strong regulatory framework (MFSA) — ideal for fintech & gaming
  • No thin-capitalisation rules
  • Stable political environment

Things to consider

  • Minimum share capital requirement (€1,165 for private Ltd)
  • Annual audited accounts & tax returns required
  • Company secretary mandatory
  • Refund system involves initial payment of 35% tax before claiming the refund

Frequently asked questions

How does the Malta tax refund system work?
The company pays 35% corporate tax on its profits. Non-resident shareholders can then claim a 6/7ths refund of the tax paid, bringing the effective rate to approximately 5%. The refund is typically processed within 14 days of the claim.
How long does it take to set up a Malta company?
Once all KYC documentation is received and the minimum share capital is deposited, registration typically takes 3–5 business days.
Do I need a local director?
There is no legal requirement for a locally-resident director, but having one can be advantageous for substance and banking purposes. We can provide nominee directors if needed.
What is the minimum share capital?
For a private limited company, the minimum authorised share capital is €1,165, of which at least 20% (€233) must be paid up on incorporation.
Can a Malta company open a bank account?
Yes. Malta has a strong banking sector with several international banks. We introduce you to our banking partners to facilitate the account-opening process.
Is Malta suitable for fintech and gaming companies?
Yes. Malta was one of the first EU countries to regulate blockchain, cryptocurrency and online gaming. The MFSA provides dedicated licensing frameworks for these sectors.

Register in Malta

Get a tailored quote for your Malta company — we'll recommend the best structure for your goals.

+852 5803 1008

Ready to set up in Malta?

Speak with our team for a free consultation. We'll help you choose the right structure and handle the entire process.

+852 5803 1008