Company formation in Malta
Malta is a very attractive location for foreign investors due to its business-friendly taxation system, qualified multilingual workforce and a very well-developed financial, IT and tourism industry. Setting up a company here can be very rewarding. The Maltese government promotes such projects with various programs and incentives, which also include significant tax relief - over and above the low Maltese tax rates.
What types of companies can be incorporated in Malta?
- Limited Liability Company (comparable to our GmbH) and Limited (stock corporation)
- Limited Partnership (limited partnership)
- General partnership (general partnership)
Each type of company is subject to specific incorporation regulations. Our company formation consultants will help you with our complete assistance service.
How is the private limited liability company registered?
The Maltese GmbH is the most commonly used company form in the EU country. The minimum share capital must be 1,165 euros. At least one director, two shareholders, one company secretary and a registered office are required. The company directors expressly do not need to be resident in Malta.
How can a Maltese company limited by shares be registered?
This type of company requires at least two shareholders, two directors and a minimum share capital of EUR 46,600. This must be subscribed and at least 25 percent must be paid in when the company is founded. The shares can then be traded on the Maltese stock exchange.
Branches of foreign companies in Malta
Instead of founding a new company, foreign companies can also set up Maltese branches. Sole proprietorship is an uncomplicated solution.
Documents for company formation
The two most important documents are the articles of association and the certificate of incorporation. The following information is required:
- Type of company, names + domiciles of the partners or shareholders
- Company name
- Registered office of the company
- Names of the directors and the registered agent
- Corporate purpose
- Minimum share capital including contributions from individual members
- Name / domicile of the company secretary
- Copies of identity documents (passport)
As a foreigner, you do not have to enter the country for the incorporation procedure. The authorization of a representative is permitted. Once the company has been established, it must be registered and then business licenses, a tax identification number and other permits - if required - must be applied for. Anyone employing workers must obtain an employer identification number and register the employees with the Employment and Training Corporation (state employment agency).
The Maltese shelf company
Foreign investors who want to get started quickly on the Maltese market can do so by purchasing a so-called shelf company. These so-called ready-made companies have several advantages. They are considered credible on the market, are registered quickly and receive loans faster.
Virtual Maltese office
If you only want to test the Maltese market initially, you can set up a virtual office there. This only consists of a telephone, fax and Internet connection in the country, other usual operating costs do not apply. The services provided by this office can include collecting incoming faxes, sending faxes from the Maltese number (can be controlled online from anywhere in the world), call forwarding and recording messages to the voice mailbox (with remote access). Maltese bank statements can also be requested from the virtual office.
Management services for a Maltese company
Foreign investors who have set up a Maltese company as described above can make use of secretarial and trustee services. You will receive detailed advice from our company formation representatives. The management services are tailored to the specific needs of a foreign investor.
Legal and economic background for Maltese start-ups
The Maltese state has been attracting foreign investors to the country for decades and lures them with favorable tax rates. For this reason, company formations have also been made very advantageous from a legal point of view and are faster than in almost any other EU country. The Maltese state adapted its company law accordingly in 1995. As a result, a local market of consultants has developed in the country who provide excellent support to foreign founders.