Malta Gambling Licence
Premier EU gambling licence with full recognition across the European Economic Area.
What this licence covers
The Malta Gaming Authority licence is the gold standard for EU iGaming operators. MGA regulates casino, sportsbook, poker, bingo and lottery under a unified framework. B2C operators and B2B suppliers get credibility that opens doors with payment providers, banking partners and premium game content.
Pros
- EU-wide recognition and passporting rights
- Strong regulatory reputation builds partner trust
- Full scope covers casino, sportsbook, poker, bingo, lottery
- Efficient regulatory process once fit-and-proper test is passed
- Access to Maltese banking and payment infrastructure
Cons
- High initial and ongoing costs
- Fit-and-proper test is thorough, 4 to 8 weeks
- Requires Maltese substance (office, compliance officer, key roles)
- Player verification and responsible gaming standards are strict
Who should consider this licence
Operators targeting EU markets who prioritise reputation and long-term stability.
How to obtain a Malta licence
Phased process for the Malta under Malta Gaming Authority. Typical timeline: 6 to 9 months.
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Phase 1 01
Jurisdiction qualification
Beneficial owner KYC, source of funds disclosure, fit and proper pre-screen with MGA assessment criteria.
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Phase 2 02
Corporate setup
Maltese holding entity and operating company structured with required Maltese substance (office, key function holders).
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Phase 3 03
Application package submission
Business plan, technical specification, AML and RG policies, data protection framework submitted to MGA online portal.
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Phase 4 04
Compliance audits and game lab certification
GLI-19 RNG and GLI-33 wagering testing. ISO 27001 controls audit. AML programme review by MGA.
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Phase 5 05
Regulator decision and licence issuance
Iterative MGA review with information requests. Licence granted, soft launch in EU markets permitted.
Malta licence questions
- How long does a Malta MGA licence take to obtain?
- Typically 6 to 9 months from corporate setup to licence grant. The fit and proper test alone runs 4 to 8 weeks once submitted.
- Can I run B2C and B2B operations under one MGA licence?
- No - MGA issues separate B2C (operator) and B2B (supplier) licence classes. Operators typically hold B2C, platform vendors hold B2B.
- What is the Maltese substance requirement?
- Operators need a registered Maltese office, a key official resident in Malta and adequate Maltese-resident staff for compliance and management functions.
- What does an MGA licence cost in year one?
- Setup and application fees range from €25,000 to €100,000 depending on vertical scope. Annual licence fees run €25,000 to €35,000. Corporate setup and legal costs add further.
We handle the paperwork. You handle the product.
Application support, corporate structuring, compliance setup and platform integration in one package. Scoped roadmap within 48 hours.