Most Frequently Asked Questions About Company Registration in Malta
1. How do I register a company in Malta? (Step-by-step)
Company registration is handled by the Malta Business Registry and their online system BAROS.
Typical process:
1. Choose company type (usually a Private Limited).
2. Reserve the company name.
3. Prepare Memorandum & Articles of Association.
4. Deposit share capital (if required).
5. Submit incorporation documents to the Registry.
6. Obtain Certificate of Incorporation.
7. Register for tax, VAT (if applicable), and social security.
8. Open a corporate bank account.
Most businesses use a corporate service provider to ensure compliance.
2. What types of companies can be formed?
The most common structures are:
- Private Limited Liability Company (Ltd) – Most popular option for SMEs and foreign investors.
- Public Limited Company (PLC) – For larger operations and listings.
- Single-Member Company
- Holding Company
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Partnership structures
For international entrepreneurs, a Private Limited Company is typically the most flexible and efficient structure.
3. What is the minimum share capital requirement?
- Private Limited Company: Minimum €1,165 (At least 20% must be paid up at incorporation)
- Public Limited Company: Minimum €46,588 (25% must be paid up)
4. How long does registration take?
If documentation is complete and compliant, registration usually takes 3–5 working days. To collect all necessary Due Diligence documents you might need to calculate around 2-3 weeks.
Complex structures or enhanced due diligence can extend the timeframe.
5. Can foreigners/non-residents register a company in Malta?
Yes. Malta is highly foreign-investor friendly.
- 100% foreign ownership is permitted.
- No residency requirement for shareholders.
- A local registered office address is required.
- A company secretary is mandatory (can be a resident or corporate provider).
6. What are the costs involved?
Costs typically include:
- Government registration fee (based on share capital)
- Registered office fee
- Company secretary fee
- Professional service provider fees
- Annual compliance & filing fees
For a standard private company, initial setup often ranges between €1,500–€3,500, depending on services required.
7. What are the post-registration obligations?
Companies must comply with:
- Annual financial statements
- Annual return filing
- Corporate tax returns
- VAT reporting (if applicable)
- Proper bookkeeping & accounting
- Maintenance of statutory registers
Malta operates a full imputation tax system, offering potential tax efficiencies for international structures.
8. Do I need a local bank account and how do I open one?
Yes, a corporate bank account is required to operate effectively.
You can apply with:
- Traditional Maltese banks
- EU-based banks
- Licensed EMIs (Electronic Money Institutions)
Banking due diligence is strict. Expect to provide:
- Business plan
- Source of funds documentation
- Identification documents
- Proof of business activity
Timelines vary (2–8+ weeks depending on the institution).
9. Can a company be registered remotely?
Yes. Incorporation can be completed remotely through a licensed corporate service provider.
You will need:
- Certified identification documents
- Proof of address
- Due diligence documentation
Physical presence in Malta is not required for incorporation.
10. What happens if compliance requirements are not met?
Non-compliance may result in:
- Financial penalties
- Late filing fees
- Director liability
- Company being struck off the register
- Legal enforcement action
Maintaining proper corporate governance is essential to avoid regulatory risks.
Hidden costs of setting up company in Malta
1. Bank-Related & Due Diligence Fees
- Bank account setup costs – many providers charge €200–€500+ just to open a corporate account.
Ongoing banking charges – monthly maintenance fees, per-transaction fees and minimum balance penalties can add up yearly.
Additional due diligence / updated KYC – banks often require updated certified identification or business documents regularly.
2. Notarial, Apostille, Translation Costs
- Notary fees – for certifying documents, changes to company agreements, etc. (€150–€300+).
- Apostille certifications – for foreign documents, typically €30–€200 per document.
- Document translations – required if any documents aren’t in English/Maltese. (€100–€300+).
3. Company Service Provider Overheads
- Company secretary & registered office – mandatory services that often aren’t included in cheap quotes (€600–€2,000+ annually).
- Nominee director services – if you need a local director for substance, expect €1,000–€2,500+ per year.
Professional formation fees – corporate service providers often charge much more than advertised once extras are added.
4. Accounting, Audit & Tax Compliance
- Routine bookkeeping & accounting – typically €1,000–€2,500+ per year.
- Mandatory audit – Maltese companies must prepare audited financial statements; this can be €1,200–€3,000+.
- Tax return preparation – specialist tax support often adds €500–€1,500.
- VAT registrations & regular returns (if applicable) – extra administrative costs.
5. Office & Physical Presence Costs (if needed)
- Virtual office address fees – €600–€1,000 per year.
- Physical workspace / rental office – significantly more, often €2,000–€5,000+ per year.
6. Expressions of Urgency & Misc Fees
- Express/priority filings with the Registry – can cost a premium on top of normal fees.
- Travel or in-person costs – if you or service providers need to attend meetings, bank appointments, etc.
7. Penalties If You Miss Deadlines
Missing statutory filings (annual returns, accounts, audits) can trigger fines and late fees, which grow over time.