Malta Company Formation
Set up a company in Malta in 5-10 working days. Comprehensive guide covering entity types, registration process, tax structure, and banking.
💼 Need help with company formation? Speak to a Malta Corporate Service Provider.
Find a CSPHow to Set Up a Company in Malta
The Malta company formation process is straightforward with the right guidance.
Choose Company Name
Same dayCheck availability with Malta Business Registry (MBR). Names must be unique and not misleading.
Prepare Documents
1-2 daysMemorandum and Articles of Association, shareholder details, director appointments.
Submit to MBR
2-3 daysRegistration fee ~€245 for standard Ltd. Electronic submission through CSP.
Tax Registration
1-2 daysObtain Tax Identification Number (TIN) from Inland Revenue Department.
VAT & Banking
1-4 weeksRegister 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 PopularMost 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 shareholders
Parent company must be non-resident in Malta
- Trading income
Applies to active business income (not passive)
- Genuine substance
Company must have real presence and operations
- Proper governance
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.
Ready to Form Your Malta Company?
Speak to a qualified Corporate Service Provider or ask our AI assistant for more information.