Form a Malta company in 5–10 working days — and trade across the EU from week two.
Costs, share capital, directors, banking and ongoing compliance — what UK founders actually need to know about Malta company formation.
How to Set Up a Company in Malta
The Malta company formation process is straightforward with the right guidance.
Choose Company Name
Check availability with Malta Business Registry (MBR). Names must be unique and not misleading.
Prepare Documents
Memorandum and Articles of Association, shareholder details, director appointments.
Submit to MBR
Registration fee ~€245 for standard Ltd. Electronic submission through CSP.
Tax Registration
Obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN) from Inland Revenue Department.
VAT & Banking
Register for VAT (18% standard rate) and open corporate bank account.
Malta Company Types
Choose the right entity structure for your business needs.
Private Limited Company (Ltd)
Most common for foreign investors. Limited liability, separate legal personality.
Public Limited Company (PLC)
For larger enterprises. Can offer shares to the public.
Partnership (en nom collectif)
Two or more partners with unlimited liability.
Branch Office
Extension of foreign parent company in Malta.
Understanding Malta Tax
Malta's tax system offers significant advantages through its imputation system and shareholder refund mechanism.
Headline Rate
Corporate tax on company profits
Effective Rate (Trading Income)
After 6/7ths refund to non-resident shareholders
VAT Rate
Standard rate (reduced rates for some goods/services)
Requirements for 5% Rate
- Non-resident shareholdersParent company must be non-resident in Malta
Parent company must be non-resident in Malta
- Trading incomeApplies to active business income (not passive)
Applies to active business income (not passive)
- Genuine substanceCompany must have real presence and operations
Company must have real presence and operations
- Proper governanceAnnual audit, board meetings, compliance
Annual audit, board meetings, compliance
Professional advice required: The tax structure involves specific conditions. Consult a qualified Malta tax advisor.
Malta Business Banking
Opening a corporate bank account in Malta is an essential step. The main banks are well-established with strong international connections.
Bank of Valletta (BOV)
Malta's largest bank, government-owned
HSBC Malta
International network, corporate services
APS Bank
Growing alternative, good for SMEs
Note: Account opening typically takes 2-4 weeks and requires in-person verification or video call. A Malta CSP can facilitate introductions.
Malta Residency Programmes
Combine your business with Mediterranean lifestyle.
Malta Global Residence Programme
15% flat tax on foreign income remitted to Malta. Min €15,000 annual tax.
Malta Permanent Residence (MPRP)
Permanent residency status. One-time government contribution.
Digital Nomad Residence Permit
For remote workers employed by companies outside Malta.
More Malta Resources
Investment Overview
Why Malta is a top investment destination
Valletta Guide
Malta's capital where many CSPs are based
Visit Malta First
Plan a business reconnaissance trip
Malta Lifestyle
Work-life balance in the Mediterranean
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to form a company in Malta?+
A standard Maltese private limited liability company can be incorporated in 5–10 working days once all KYC and documentation requirements are met. Banking arrangements typically take longer than the company formation itself.
What is the minimum share capital for a Malta company?+
The minimum issued share capital is €1,165, of which 20% (about €233) must be paid up on incorporation. Higher capital is common for regulated activities.
Can a UK resident be a director of a Malta company?+
Yes — non-resident directors are permitted. Many Malta-incorporated companies have a mix of resident and non-resident directors. Tax residence of the company depends on where it is effectively managed and controlled, so professional advice is important.
Do I need to use a Corporate Service Provider?+
In practice, almost all foreign founders use a licensed Corporate Service Provider (CSP) for Malta incorporation, registered office, accounting and ongoing compliance. CSPs are regulated by the MFSA.
What ongoing compliance does a Malta company have?+
Annual financial statements (audited above thresholds), annual returns to the Malta Business Registry, corporation tax returns, VAT returns where applicable, and beneficial ownership filings. A CSP usually handles all of these.