Why Choose Malta for Company Formation?
Malta is a leading EU jurisdiction for holding, trading, igaming, fintech, and shipping structures, combining single-market access with a distinctive full-imputation tax refund system. It offers clear advantages for international groups:
EU and Eurozone Member. Full access to the EU single market and EU directives, with the euro as the currency
Full-Imputation Refund System. A 35% headline rate reduced by a shareholder refund, commonly a 6/7ths refund that brings the effective rate on trading income to around 5%
Extensive Treaty Network. More than 70 double-tax treaties reducing withholding tax on cross-border flows
Participation Exemption. An exemption on qualifying dividends and gains from participating holdings, suited to EU holding structures
100% Foreign Ownership. No local shareholder requirement; the company can be wholly foreign owned
Specialist Sector Regimes. Established frameworks for igaming, financial services, fintech, shipping, and aviation
Modest Minimum Capital. A private limited company forms with EUR 1,165 authorised share capital, of which 20% is paid up
English-Language Business. English is an official language and is used throughout business, law, and administration
Malta Company Types
Private Limited Company (Ltd)
- Min. capital
- EUR 1,165 (20% paid up)
- Shareholders
- 1-50
- Best for
- Most holding, trading, and SME structures
Public Limited Company (plc)
- Min. capital
- EUR 46,587.47 (25% paid up)
- Shareholders
- 2 minimum
- Best for
- Larger operations and public offerings
Holding Company
- Min. capital
- EUR 1,165 (20% paid up)
- Shareholders
- 1 minimum
- Best for
- EU holding structures using the participation exemption
Branch of a Foreign Company
- Min. capital
- None required
- Shareholders
- Parent-owned
- Best for
- Foreign companies establishing an EU presence
Common Uses for Malta Companies
EU Holding Companies
A widely used EU holding location, with a participation exemption on qualifying dividends and gains and access to EU directives and the treaty network.
International Trading
An EU-resident trading company where the full-imputation refund system commonly brings the effective tax on trading income to around 5%.
iGaming and Fintech
A leading EU base for remote gaming and financial technology, supported by the Malta Gaming Authority and the Malta Financial Services Authority.
Shipping and Aviation
Malta operates a large ship register and an established aviation register, with dedicated tonnage and aircraft regimes.
Note: Costs are indicative and may change with your requirements and regulations. Contact us for a tailored quote.
