Register Company in Malta

Tetra Consultants assist our international clients to register company in Malta. Our service package includes Malta company formation, opening Malta corporate bank accounts and financial license application. Tetra Consultants is the one-stop solution for you to start legally conduct business in Malta.

Company Registration

3 Weeks

Local Director?

No

Bank Account Opening

4 Weeks

Travel Required?

No

Excellent

Based on 87 reviews






    Register company in Malta

    To register company in Malta is hassle-free, if you know how. With Tetra Consultants at the wheel, you will be able to dedicate your time and resources into other more important business channels.

    With our lean-and-mean mentality, you can rely on our team of experts to provide you a seamless experience throughout the whole process of Malta company formation. Our ultimate goal is for your Malta company to be operationally ready within the stipulated time frame. 

    Our service package includes everything you will require for company formation in Malta:

    malta company registration

    Can a foreigner register company in Malta? 

    • Yes, Foreigners can register company in Malta. They can navigate the process with Tetra Consultants’ expert help. Malta welcomes foreign ownership without restrictions, and Tetra Consultants facilitates remote registrations. Tetra Consultants provide comprehensive support, guiding clients through crucial steps. Tetra Consultants streamline the process of depositing the required share capital. They also assist in securing any necessary licenses. Additionally, they facilitate obtaining PE and VAT numbers.
    • Tetra Consultants streamline the entire registration process online via the Malta Business Registry. Their expertise ensures a smooth and straightforward process, addressing potential complexities. Foreign entities gain a valuable ally in Tetra Consultants, benefiting from their expertise. Tetra Consultants navigate the legal nuances of company registration in Malta. They ensure a hassle-free experience for foreign entities. Their assistance instils confidence in the process of registering a company in Malta. Tetra Consultants enable businesses to thrive in this dynamic European jurisdiction. 

    How long does it take for setting up a company in Malta and open a corporate bank account?

    malta company registration timeline

    • Tetra Consultants will complete the process to register company in Malta within 3 weeks upon receiving all required due diligence documents. Throughout process, you will not be required to travel overseas.
    • Depending on the intended business activity and incoming/outgoing transactions, Tetra Consultants will open the corporate bank account with either a reputable local bank or overseas bank. You can expect to secure banking solutions within 4 weeks after company registration. 
    • Consequently, you can expect your company to be fully operational and be able to issue invoices within 7 weeks upon engaging Tetra Consultants.
    • Thereafter if required, Tetra Consultants will assist you to secure suitable licenses available in Malta. Some examples include the Virtual Financial Assets license for cryptocurrency businesses and gaming license for online gambling or casino.
    • If you are keen to know more about setting up a company in Malta, Tetra Consultants has prepared a step by step explanation of all steps required.

    What types of companies are there?

    • Despite being one of the smallest members of the European Union (EU), Malta is one of the most cost-effective countries to set up an offshore company. Malta is home to multiple businesses in the cryptocurrency or remote gambling industry.
    • It boasts a well-regulated and safe environment by introducing multiple licenses with regulatory frameworks. Consequently, these high-risk companies are able to legally conduct business. 
    • Malta offers many different types of business entities for you to choose from. This includes Limited Liability Company, Malta Freeport Company, Public Limited Company, Branch office and Representative office.
    • Before setting  up business in Malta, Tetra Consultants will fully understand our client’s business model before recommending the most suitable business entity. Some considerations we take into account include the type of business activity,  tax obligations as well as potential personal liability. 

    types of companies in Malta

    Limited Liability Company (LLC)

    • Limited Liability Company is the most common business entity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who are planning to register company in Malta. SMEs are able to enjoy multiple tax incentives on their annual profits and when properly structured, corporate tax rate can be reduced from 35% to 10%. 
    • A LLC is a fully independent legal entity and the shareholders are not personally liable for the company’s debt. For most business activities, Tetra Consultants will recommend you to set up a limited liability company to reap the multiple benefits available. 
    • According to Malta Business Registry, setting up a limited liability company can be done with minimal requirements:
      • 2 shareholders of any nationality
      • 1 director of any nationality
      • 1 Maltese company secretary
      • Malta registered office address
      • Minimum share capital of at least €1200.
    • If you are looking to register a Malta company to conduct business in the field of financial services or gambling or cryptocurrency, you will require specific licenses.
    • Depending on the license you require, you will be subject to respective additional requirements, such as higher capital requirement or local economic substance. 

    Partnership: 

    • Establishing a partnership in Malta offers a flexible business structure. The Maltese Companies Act governs it. It accommodates two main types: limited partnership and general partnership. The crucial distinction lies in liability, with general partnerships involving unlimited liability. Contrary, partnerships provide the advantage of at least one partner having limited liability.
    • Initiating a partnership in Malta requires a partnership deed. In Malta, a partnership firm can be formed with a minimum of two partners. Additionally, a paid-up contribution is necessary. The Know Your Customer (KYC) documentation of partners is also a prerequisite. The registration fee is contingent on the contribution amount, emphasizing financial transparency. Additionally, Tetra Consultants assist partners in registering a trade name. They also help in maintaining a registered address in Malta. This helps in contributing to regulatory compliance. 
    • Taxation for general partnerships in Malta operates through partners’ individual tax returns. This allows for personal assessment and flexibility. The tax approach aligns with the partner’s financial standing, ensuring a tailored framework.
    • Tetra Consultants specialize in facilitating the partnership registration process in Malta. They provide expertise in legal drafting, ensuring seamless preparation of necessary documents. With Tetra Consultants, businesses can navigate the complexities of partnership formation. Businesses benefit from a reliable partner. This partner aids in establishing a successful presence in Malta’s business landscape. 

    Malta Freeport company

    • If you are planning to conduct business in logistics or other export-oriented industries, Tetra Consultants will recommend you to register your company in the Malta Freeport. As such, you can enjoy reduced corporate income tax rate, lower VAT rate and investment tax credits.
    • Registering a Malta Freeport company does not require additional requirements as it is basically a Limited Liability Company within the Malta Freeport.
    • Malta Freeport company is governed differently from a Malta Freezone company. On 31 May 2019, the government introduced the Malta Free Zones Act XV, which vested Malta Free Zone Authority with the permission to introduce new Free Zones, with the aim of boosting Malta’s manufacturing and logistics sectors.
    • However, this new Act is not applicable to the Malta Freeport company as it is governed separately under the Malta Freeports Act. 

    Public Limited Company (PLC)

    • If you are planning to raise capital by issuing shares through Initial Public Offering (IPO) or shares issuance, Tetra Consultants will recommend you to consider setting up a Public LImited Company (PLC). With a PLC, you will be able to be listed on the Malta Stock Exchange
    • In order to set up a Public limited company, you will require:
      • 2 shareholders
      • 2 directors of any nationalities
      • 1 Maltese legal representative or company secretary
      • A legal registered office address
      • Minimum issued share capital of approximately €46,600, out of which at least 25% must be paid up prior to company registration

    Branch Office

    • A branch office is an extension of the parent company that is planning to conduct business activities in Malta. As such, the parent company is fully liable for the debts incurred by the Malta branch office.
    • Although there is no limit to investment amount or ownerships, a branch representative staying in Malta has to be legally appointed in order to manage the operations there. In addition to that, branch remittance taxation is not imposed in Malta.

    Representative Office

    • Representative office is only meant for foreign investors who do not intend to conduct business in Malta. As such, they are only allowed to conduct limited and non-commercial activities such as market research and marketing activities for their parent company.
    • Hence representative office is a popular choice for foreign investors who are planning to promote their presence, as well as seeking to explore the potential market before settling for Malta.

    How to register company in Malta?

    In order to register your business in Malta, we advise you to follow the steps below:

    Step 1: Choose a suitable business structure

    • There are various forms of business structures available in Malta to choose from including the following:
      • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
      • Malta Freeport company
      • Public Limited Company (PLC)
      • Branch Office
      • Representative Office
    • Tetra Consultants’ team of experts will first fully understand your unique business model, needs, and goals, before recommending the most optimal business structure for you. The Limited Liability Company tends to be the most common choice among smaller businesses due to its tax benefits.
    • Prior to incorporating a Malta company, you will be advised on the optimum paid up share capital, company structure, legislations and whether there is a need to apply for any licenses to operate.

    Step 2: Reservation of company name 

    • After your company submits a unique business name, Tetra Consultants will reserve your preferred company name with the Malta Business Registry.
    • Once it is approved, it will be valid for up to 3 months before it is released.

    Step 3: Preparation of supporting documents

    • Before Tetra Consultants move forward to register company in Malta, you are required to provide a list of required KYC documents. Some of these documents include the names of directors and identification proof.
    • You will also have to fill in an application form to be submitted to the authorities.
    • Upon receiving all the necessary documents, Tetra Consultants will proceed to draft and notarize the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.
    • According to the business activity and company structure, Tetra Consultants will also draft articles of incorporation, business plan and other incorporation documents.

    Step 4: Filing for registration 

    • Tetra Consultants will then proceed to file for registration with the Malta Business Registry and submit the application form online.
    • After receiving approval, Tetra Consultants will courier the company registration certificate, Memorandum and Articles of Association and other documents to your preferred address.

    Step 5: Corporate bank account opening

    • After registration, Tetra Consultants will assist you in opening a corporate bank account. Our team has established partnerships with multiple reputable banks in both Malta and globally. We will present your business to each relationship manager and compliance team.

    Step 6: Financial reporting and taxation obligations 

    • Tetra Consultants will continue to provide you with the necessary accounting and tax services to ensure that you can continue to legally conduct business while staying compliant with regulatory obligations.
    • Our team of dedicated consultants will prepare your firm’s financial statements, corporate tax returns and manage bookkeeping on your behalf.
    • The corporate tax rate in Malta is 35%, while the VAT rate is 18%.
    • Our team of dedicated consultants will continue to clarify any doubts you may have with regard to your company’s obligations.

    Bank account opening to register company in Malta 

    • Registering a company in Malta requires opening a bank account. This is a legal prerequisite for depositing the share capital, set at €1,200 (for private limited liability company). Tetra Consultants specializes in company registration. They secure a corporate bank account for companies within around 4 weeks post-registration. The timeline for securing a bank account may vary based on the business activity’s risk level. In some cases, Malta may need applicants to travel for an interview. Tetra Consultants possess expertise in navigating regulatory processes. This ensures an efficient and compliant registration experience for clients. They offer a swift avenue for establishing and operating companies in Malta. 

    Documents required to have a corporate bank account: 

    • Shareholders’ and company’s bank references 
    • Utility bills with the directors’ and shareholders’ current Maltese addresses 
    • Copies of passports or identification documents of the shareholders and managers 
    • Certificate of good standing of the company 
    • Company’s statutory documents (Articles of Association, Memorandum, etc.) 

    Documents required to register company in Malta 

    • When registering a company in Malta, the following documents are typically required:
    • Memorandum and Articles of Association
    • Identification documents of shareholders, directors, and company secretaries
    • Registered office address in Malta
    • Shareholder and director registers
    • Company name reservation
    • Company formation fee
    • Form BO1 (Ultimate Beneficial Owner disclosure form)
    • Incorporation forms (e.g., Form CO1, Form CO2)
    • Tax Identification Number (TIN) application
    • It is  important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and additional documentation may be required depending on the specific circumstances of the company and its activities. You can consult with our team of business setup consultants to ensure compliance with all necessary requirements.

    Annual accounting and tax considerations for company registered in Malta

    Annual accounting and tax considerations are crucial for companies registered in Malta. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

    1. Financial Statements: Maltese companies are required to prepare annual financial statements in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or the General Accounting Principles for Smaller Entities (GAPSE). These statements must provide a true and fair view of the company’s financial position, performance, and cash flows.

    2. Auditing Requirements: In Malta, companies are generally required to have their financial statements audited by a certified auditor unless they meet specific size criteria that exempt them from this obligation. The auditor’s role is to independently review the financial statements and express an opinion on their accuracy and compliance with the applicable accounting standards.

    3. Tax Returns and Payments: Maltese companies must file an annual tax return with the Inland Revenue Department. The tax return should include all relevant financial information, such as income, expenses, and any tax credits or incentives claimed. It is important to ensure timely submission of the tax return to avoid penalties. Additionally, companies are required to make quarterly advance tax payments based on an estimated tax liability.

    4. Tax Compliance: Malta operates a territorial tax system, where companies are generally taxed on their income derived in or remitted to Malta. It is important for companies to ensure proper tax compliance, including accurate record-keeping, maintenance of supporting documentation, and adherence to transfer pricing rules if applicable.

    • The corporate tax rate in Malta is set at 35% on the chargeable profits as reflected in the audited accounts of the company. However, Malta has implemented a tax refund system that offers significant fiscal advantages to shareholders. This system allows for a reduction of the effective tax rate to 0% for holding companies and 5% for trading companies. It is important to note that specific legal conditions must be met in order for shareholders to qualify for these tax refunds.
    • By satisfying the necessary requirements, shareholders of holding companies can enjoy a complete exemption from tax on the profits distributed to them. Similarly, shareholders of trading companies can benefit from a reduced tax rate of only 5% on the distributed profits. These tax refunds are designed to encourage investment and promote economic growth in Malta.
    • It is crucial for companies and shareholders to seek professional advice and ensure compliance with all legal obligations to avail themselves of these tax refund benefits. By understanding and meeting the specific criteria set by Maltese tax legislation, shareholders can maximize their fiscal advantages and optimize their overall tax position.

    5. VAT Reporting: Companies registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) must comply with the relevant reporting obligations. This includes timely submission of VAT returns, payment of any VAT liability, and maintaining proper VAT records. Certain companies may also be eligible for VAT refunds or special VAT schemes, such as the Malta Gaming Goods and Services VAT Scheme.

    Why choose to register company in Malta?

    Before proceeding to register company in Malta, it is important to understand the business landscape of the jurisdiction. This is to ensure that your newly established entity will be able to safely and legally conduct business, while striving towards your long-term business goals.

    malta company registration advantages

    Political

    • According to the Corruption Perceptions Index reported by Transparency International, Malta is the 50th least corrupt country worldwide.

    Economical

    • Euros is the official currency of Malta.
    • The corporate tax rate in Malta is 35%. However, there are plenty of tax incentives that can reduce the effective tax rate to almost 10%.
    • Malta has signed over 60 Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs), preventing double taxation during the import-export process. 
    • According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report, Malta was awarded a score of 68.55%. As such, Malta is the 38th most competitive economy in the world.

    Social

    • Malta possesses a literacy rate of 94.5%. In addition 88% of the Maltese workforce are proficient in English. As such, there will be minimal communication barriers when speaking to local authorities or bankers. 
    • Malta has a population of approximately 500,000, which is extremely low in Europe. Most investors choose Malta to set up offshore companies instead of focusing on the domestic market.

    Technological

    • The Malta government introduces the Malta Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) licenses that provide a regulated and safe environment for businesses to set up cryptocurrency businesses. 
    • Malta is home to many gambling businesses. With Malta Gaming Authority overseeing the regulatory framework, companies are able to apply for the gambling license and conduct business legally.

    Legal

    • According to the latest annual ratings given by the World Bank, Malta is ranked 88th worldwide in terms of ease of doing business. This is due to the slow response time provided by Maltese government throughout the process to register company in Malta. 

    Environmental

    • According to the Environment Performance Index, Malta is ranked 4th in the world. 

    Looking to register company in Malta?

    Contact us to find out more about how to register company in Malta. Our team of experts will revert within the next 24 hours.

    FAQ

    Can a foreigner register a company in Malta?

    • Yes–a foreigner can register a company in Malta. More crucially, a foreigner can have 100% ownership in their companies.

    Why do companies register in Malta?

    • The Government of Malta has incorporated laws that are geared towards the optimal operation of businesses in the country. Some of the pertinent advantages of registering a business in Malta include: Tax Optimization; Reduced Business Costs; International Business Expansion; Access to Offshore Banking; and Asset Protection.

    How much does it cost to register a company in Malta?

    • The engagement fee depends on the services you require from Tetra Consultants. Prior to each engagement, our team will fully understand your business needs and inform you of the exact services you require.
    • Tetra Consultants’ fees include government fees such as business name reservation charges, company registration fees and tax registration costs

    What are the requirements for the registration of a company?

    • To register a company in Malta, we have simplified the process as follows: 1.) Select a Suitable Business Structure; 2.) Reservation of Your Company Name; 3.) Preparation of Supporting Documents (such as list of directors along with identification proof); 4.)Filing for Registration; 5.) Opening of Corporate Bank Account; 6.) Financial Reporting and Taxation Obligations
    • Throughout these processes, Tetra Consultants will guide you through each step–making this arduous process hassle-free for you!

    How to set up a company in Malta?

    • In order to set up a company in Malta, you will first need to register your company (see FAQ on How to register a company in Malta). Thereafter, you will need to set up a corporate bank account. Ultimately within 6 weeks, your business will be fully operational

    What is the Malta Company Tax rate

    • The corporate tax rate in Malta is 35%, while the VAT rate is 18%.






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