Gambling regulation in Malta
Europe's main licensing hub: the MGA issues B2C and B2B licences to companies that serve players in many markets.
Status at a glance
Private operators can apply for a licence.
Private operators can apply for a licence.
Private operators can apply for a licence.
The law reserves this product for a state or state-appointed operator.
Regulator and law
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
- Main law: Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta)
Key points
- An MGA licence covers Malta itself; serving another country still depends on that country's own rules.
- A 2023 amendment to the Gaming Act (Bill 55) lets Maltese courts refuse to enforce foreign judgments against licensees that conflict with the licensed activity.
Gambling tax
| Product | Rate | Tax base | Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casino games and lotteries (Type 1) | 15% (5% until 30 September 2026) | gaming revenue from players in Malta | |
| Betting, poker, bingo and skill games (Types 2 to 4) | 10% (5% until 30 September 2026) | gaming revenue from players in Malta |
Malta taxes revenue from players in Malta; a Malta licensee serving other markets pays those markets' taxes.
Source: pwc.com, mga.org.mt. Gambling tax rates in other markets
Licence fees
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA): B2C gaming service licence.
| Application fee (one-time, non-refundable) | €5,000 |
| Annual licence fee, B2C | €25,000 (€10,000 for operators offering only Type 4 games) |
| Annual licence fee, B2B | €25,000 to €35,000, by annual revenue |
| Compliance contribution, casino (Type 1) | €15,000 to €375,000 a year, on gaming revenue |
| Compliance contribution, betting (Type 2) | €25,000 to €600,000 a year, on gaming revenue |
| Compliance contribution, poker and peer-to-peer (Type 3) | €25,000 to €500,000 a year |
| Compliance contribution, controlled skill games (Type 4) | €5,000 to €500,000 a year |
| Minimum paid-up share capital | €100,000 (Types 1 and 2), €40,000 (Types 3 and 4) |
Source: mga.org.mt. Licence costs in other jurisdictions
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Sources
Nearby markets
Latest from the regulator
- The MGA publishes notice on multiple unauthorised URLs
- MGA launches AI Gaming Charter following extensive industry collaboration
- MGA to exhibit at SBC Summit Lisbon for the first time under the Make It In Malta banner
- MGA recognises the use of Qualified Electronic Signatures in submitted documentation
Working in the industry here
iGaming jobs in Malta: 215 open roles at 22 gambling industry companies, from their own career sites.
Reviewed on . Gambling law changes often: this overview is for orientation and is not legal advice. Check with the regulator before acting. Market: Malta
Frequently asked questions
Is online gambling legal in Malta?
It depends on the product. Online casino is licensed: private operators can apply for a licence. Sports betting is licensed: private operators can apply for a licence. Online poker is licensed: private operators can apply for a licence. Lottery is reserved for a state or state-appointed operator.
Who regulates gambling in Malta?
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). The main law is: Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta).
How much gambling tax do online operators pay in Malta?
Casino games and lotteries (Type 1): 15% (5% until 30 September 2026), charged on gaming revenue from players in Malta. Betting, poker, bingo and skill games (Types 2 to 4): 10% (5% until 30 September 2026), charged on gaming revenue from players in Malta. Other taxes and fees may apply.
How much does an online gambling licence cost in Malta?
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), B2C gaming service licence: Application fee (one-time, non-refundable): €5,000; Annual licence fee, B2C: €25,000 (€10,000 for operators offering only Type 4 games); Annual licence fee, B2B: €25,000 to €35,000, by annual revenue. Taxes and other costs come on top.
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