Malta has positioned itself as a hub for service providers aiming to offer digital value across Europe. The governing system allows for the authorisation of Electronic Money Institutions in Malta under specific rules that ensure the soundness of the system and protection of clients. E-money license in Malta grants the holder the right to issue e-money and provide payment services; such organizations do not take deposits or extend credit. Companies looking to buy EMI license in Malta can gain immediate access to European markets and banking infrastructure.
Malta EMI license requirements
Regulations for EMI license in Malta require meeting several criteria set by the local financial authority.
The MFSA requires a real presence in the country through an office and two experienced senior staff adequately seconded to the business, having thus effective direction from within the nation. Applicants are supposed to meet a capital demand of €350,000 and need to prove very strict procedures for safeguarding clientele funds. Fit & proper tests will be conducted for competency and integrity at the level of the new owner and key workers, the CEO, Compliance Officer, MLRO, and Risk Manager; these tests will be considered compulsory for anyone taking up such a position.
Advantages of EMI license in Malta
A permit offers several operational advantages. It allows for creation and redemption of digital currency across the EEA without needing separate approvals in each country. It enables integration via direct or, more commonly, sponsored access to SEPA and SWIFT networks, facilitating smooth fund transfers. Holding an EMI (Electronic Money Institution) license in Malta also signals credibility to associates, clients, and investors. Banks and other payment service providers tend to prefer working with licensed entities due to regulatory oversight. In addition, the licensing system is relatively transparent, and regulatory demands are clear, allowing for predictable operational planning. Electronic Money Institution license in Malta can provide a variety of offerings, including safeguarding client funds, handling financial operations, issuing monetary instruments, and integrating with solutions related to an online bank.
Procedure for obtaining EMI license in Malta
Obtaining an EMI license in Malta begins with having all incorporation documents, board composition details, and initial capital confirmation. The introduction of the offerings, proposed in the e-money service, requires a comprehensive business plan which provides statistics on transactions and protects operational procedures. Insufficient information will not fly with the authorities, who require extensive detail on mitigation of hazards, anti-fraud measures, and protection of customer funds. The regulator conducts a detailed assessment, may request clarifications, and can interview key officers. Once all conditions are satisfied, the MFSA issues the authorization. The process typically takes 4–6 months, depending on the complexity of the structure and completeness of documentation.After licensing, entities must maintain ongoing regulatory reporting and annual audits in line with MFSA requirements.
Knowledge of the different types of EMI licensing in Malta is important when planning service scope, as permits vary depending on whether the institutions issue e-money, provide limited payment services, or combine both.
What is included in our services
Eternity Law International provides comprehensive end-to-end support for clients. Our services cover the full licensing process, including:
- Company incorporation and registration;
- Preparation of business plan and internal policies (AML, risk management, safeguarding, governance);
- Structuring of directors and key function holders;
- Submission and liaison with the MFSA;
- Assistance with bank account opening and SEPA/SWIFT integration.
We also provide post-licensing support, including regulatory reporting, risk management, compliance reviews, and ongoing governance maintenance.
Beyond EMI licensing in Malta, Eternity Law International offers corporate and tax advisory services, including international tax planning, accounting, audit, mergers & acquisitions, and investment structuring.
Taxation of EMI in Malta
Entities holding a permit for EMI in Malta are subject to corporate tax regulations under regional law. Profits derived from electronic money issuance and related services are taxed at the standard corporate rate. The nation provides certain mechanisms that may reduce the effective tax rate through refunds, subject to eligibility. Taxation also covers cross-border payments, and clients are advised to structure transactions to optimize efficiency. Proper accounting and reporting are obliged to ensure regulatory alignment and avoid penalties. Companies must maintain clear records of all electronic money transactions, capital, and reserves.
How much does EMI license in Malta cost?
The price of obtaining a permit for Electronic Money Institutions (EMI) in Malta is determined by multiple factors. Initial capital demands start at €350,000 and may increase depending on the planned scale of e-money issuance. Administrative, legal, and advisory fees vary based on service complexity. Regulatory fees for review and registration are additional. Ongoing costs include annual regulatory fees, audit, reporting, and internal governance maintenance. Total expenditure for initial licensing and first-year operation can range from several hundred thousand euros to higher amounts for larger structures. Eternity Law International provides transparent cost breakdowns and estimates for each stage of the process.
Our advantages
Eternity Law International combines legal, corporate, and financial expertise to support licensing. Our team has track record in setting up companies, bank accounts, and fintech structures, including ready-made entities and forex permits for sale. We provide advisory on strategy, tax planning, mergers, and investment opportunities. Legal services include international arbitration and protection of business interests. Clients benefit from dedicated support for board structuring, risk management policies, and regulatory reporting. The firm also offers additional services, such as trademark registration, virtual offices, and specialized advisory for human rights and political asylum cases. With a comprehensive approach, we reduce the complexity of obtaining and maintaining an Electronic money institution (EMI) license in Malta while ensuring regulatory alignment and operational readiness.
Conclusion
Establishing activities in this jurisdiction provides a direct pathway into the European arena. The system is designed to promote confidence, clarity, and sustainable growth, while placing strong emphasis on the protection of clients. With straightforward procedures, predictable processes, and professional guidance, organizations can strengthen their credibility and expand across borders. This creates an environment where long-term expansion, innovation, and market recognition become achievable goals.
FAQ
What are the tax implications for a Maltese EMI license holder?
Companies established under this framework can benefit from a favorable corporate tax system. While a standard headline rate applies, refund mechanisms often lower the effective burden substantially, creating efficiency for shareholders and investors.
How does an EMI differ from a bank?
The focus here is on issuing and safeguarding stored value, not on accepting deposits or extending loans. In contrast, a credit institution is built around lending, interest-bearing products, and maturity transformation. This distinction explains why oversight and obligations differ.
Why might an EMI be preferred over a traditional bank?
It tends to be more agile, technology-driven, and accessible. Users often find it quicker, more flexible, and easier to engage with compared to legacy operators, especially when looking for modern solutions with lower barriers to entry.
What factors does the MFSA consider in an EMI application?
The authority examines governance quality, adequacy of starting capital, risk mitigation, compliance systems, and the expertise of key persons. Safeguards for client funds, security of data, and resilience of technology are also central in the evaluation.
Why Malta for an EMI license?
This EU member state provides entry to cross-border rights, a skilled workforce, and a regulator experienced in overseeing innovative operators. Its strategic location offers global connectivity, while the tax framework and supportive environment make it a competitive base.