In recent years, the iGaming industry has grown rapidly, with the market expanding as global operators seek legal and compliant ways to enter this highly profitable sector. Whether establishing a new iGaming brand or relocating an existing operation, the first consideration is always the legality of gambling in a given country and whether a valid gambling license is available. For most operators, securing a stable and legally recognized license is crucial for long-term success. Among the many regulatory bodies worldwide, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) license is one of the most highly regarded due to its strict regulatory framework and stable policy environment. This has made it the top choice for many operators looking to expand into the global iGaming market. As one of the first countries to establish a comprehensive iGaming regulatory framework, Malta offers not only a well-developed legal system but also a gateway to European and international markets. The MGA license covers a wide range of gambling activities, including traditional casino games, sports betting, eSports, and virtual gaming. Today, TC-Gaming White Label explores the Malta Gaming License in depth, analyzing its history, regulatory framework, application process, fee structure, and market value to help operators navigate this essential licensing option.

Malta overview

Where Is Malta?

Malta is located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, with a very strategic geographical location connecting Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The country consists of three main islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino, with a total area of ​​approximately 316 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest countries in Europe.

Malta’s economic situation

Malta has a highly developed economy, primarily relying on financial services, iGaming, tourism, and maritime trade. iGaming plays a significant role in Malta's GDP, accounting for over 8%, making it one of the key sources of national revenue. Malta implements a favorable tax policy, successfully attracting a large number of foreign enterprises, especially in the technology and iGaming industries.

Malta Population and Language

With a population of approximately 535,900, Malta is one of the least populous countries in the European Union. The official languages ​​are Maltese and English, and the vast majority of residents are proficient in English.

• Population growth: +1,735 people (+0.3%)
• Gender ratio: 47.8% female, 52.2% male
• Urban population proportion: 95.0%
• Age distribution (average age: 40.0 years)
  • • 0-4 years old: 4.4%
    • 5-12 years old: 7.1%
    • 13-17 years old: 4.1%
    • 18-24 years old: 6.4%
  • 25-34 years old: 17.3%
  • 35-44 years old: 16.9%
  • 45-54 years old: 12.8%
  • 55-64 years old: 11.2%
  • 65 and over: 19.8%

Religion in Malta

Malta is a Catholic country, with about 90% of the population believing in Roman Catholicism. Religion plays an important role in social culture. Despite this, Malta's laws are relatively open and the gambling industry is regulated by the government and less restricted by religious factors.

Internet situation in Malta

Malta has a highly developed Internet infrastructure and is one of the countries with the highest network coverage in the world. The government is actively investing in the digital economy, which has promoted the rapid development of iGaming’s local online gambling industry. At the same time, the complete 5G network and optical fiber infrastructure provide stable technical support for online gambling companies.

Number of Internet users

• Internet users: 495,400
• Internet penetration rate: 92.4%
• Internet user growth from 2023 to 2024: +1,604 people (+0.3%)
• Offline population: 7.6%

Connection Speeds:

• Average mobile network speed: 87.49 Mbps (+38.82 Mbps / +79.8%)
• Average fixed network speed: 111.73 Mbps (+18.56 Mbps / +19.9%)

social media usage

• Total users: 366,500 (accounting for 68.4% of the total population)
• Growth 2023-2024: +12,000 (+3.5%)
• Proportion of users aged 18 and above: 81.1%
• Social media usage among internet users: 74.0%
• Gender ratio: 46.4% female, 53.6% male

Social platform user data

Mobile connection data

• Total connections: 729,700
• Mobile connection penetration rate: 136.2%
• Growth in 2023-2024: +28,000 (+4.0%)

Malta Gaming License History and Current Status

Gambling in Malta is regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), which is one of the first regulatory agencies in the global iGaming online gambling industry. It is precisely because of this groundbreaking regulation that Malta has become the center of the global iGaming online gambling industry and attracted a large number of gaming companies to set up gaming operations here.

2001: MGA established

• The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) (formerly the Lotteries and Betting Authority) has been officially established as one of the first online gambling regulators in the world.

2004: Joining the European Union

• Malta has officially joined the European Union, becoming the first EU member state to develop a comprehensive legal framework for the remote gambling industry.

2017: Major regulatory reforms announced

• The MGA has announced plans to overhaul the gaming legal and regulatory framework, scrapping the old system of license categories.

2018: Gambling Law enacted

• The Gambling Act 2018 comes into effect, bringing all gambling industries together under a streamlined and more efficient regulatory framework.
• The license validity period is extended from 5 years to 10 years.
• The license classification is simplified into two categories: B2B (key game supply) and B2C (game services).
• Operators can expand multiple game categories under the same license without having to apply for licenses repeatedly for new game categories.

2021: Strengthening supervision and compliance

• The MGA conducted 54 on-site compliance audits and 230 desktop reviews, covering 65.5% of all licensed operators.
• Supervision continues to be strengthened to ensure the legality and transparency of the gaming industry.

2023: Continued performance growth

• First half of 2023: The gaming industry’s gross value added (GAV) reached €810.7 million, accounting for 9.5% of Malta’s GVA (gross value added). This figure even jumps to 12.2% when the indirect economic impact of the gambling industry is taken into account. Gaming industry GVA increased by 1.1% year-on-year in the first half of 2022

2024: Continued Growth in the iGaming Industry

• Over 300 iGaming companies operate under a Malta license.
• The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) regulates more than 10% of virtual casino games worldwide.
• Through the Global Sports and Gambling Integrity Survey, MGA actively promotes international cooperation in iGaming regulation.

Types of Malta Licenses

• B2B License (Key Game Supply License): Allows a company to provide gambling software and related services to other companies.
• B2C License (Gaming Services License): Applicable to gaming platform operators that provide gaming services directly to players.

Game Types Covered Under a Malta License

The 2018 MGA regulatory reforms allow operators to expand multiple game categories under a single license, eliminating the need to apply for separate licenses for each category. The MGA license covers the following four main gambling categories, providing operators with greater flexibility to expand their iGaming business efficiently.

Why choose a Maltese license plate? What are the advantages?

Having a Malta iGaming license not only provides a stable iGaming market environment, government support, and global industry recognition but also offers entrepreneurial incentives and access to a highly skilled workforce. Whether you’re an industry giant or a startup, Malta is a strategic location worth considering.

The Importance of the iGaming Industry to Malta’s Economy

Malta’s iGaming industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. According to the National Statistics Office of Malta, the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the industry reached €510 million in the first half of 2021 and increased to €573 million in the first half of 2022, accounting for 8% of the country’s total GVA. This demonstrates that iGaming is not only a key economic pillar but also the third-largest private sector in Malta.

Malta Government’s Support for the iGaming Industry

The Malta government recognizes the significance of the iGaming industry and has implemented a business-friendly regulatory framework:

• 2018 Regulatory Reforms: Streamlined the license approval process, optimized the tax system, eliminated double taxation, and even removed iGaming taxes, significantly reducing the financial burden on operators.
• Economic Contributions: Despite lowering tax thresholds, the iGaming industry still generated €80 million in government revenue in 2019 through compliance fees, licensing fees, and taxes.

Opportunities for start-up betting companies

• Policy Benefits: Startups operating for less than five years and with annual revenue below €10 million can receive a 12-month exemption on compliance fees from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), reducing startup costs.
• Startup-Friendly Environment: Malta offers a well-regulated industry, highly skilled iGaming professionals, and low iGaming tax rates.

A Skilled Workforce and Strong Employment Market

The iGaming sector in Malta creates thousands of job opportunities:

• In 2019, the industry provided over 7,000 full-time jobs.
• When including related industries, total employment exceeded 11,000, accounting for 4.5% of the national job market.
• High-paying, stable, and tech-driven jobs attract global talent, further driving the growth of the local iGaming sector.

Malta iGaming License: High Industry Recognition

• The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is recognized as one of the most reputable and reliable iGaming regulators in the world.
• The MGA license is not only acknowledged within the industry but is also trusted by European iGaming players.

Access to Key iGaming Markets

• UK Market Access: The MGA license is whitelisted by the UK Gambling Commission, allowing licensed operators to legally advertise in the UK, further expanding their reach.
• International Cooperation: The MGA has established bilateral agreements with multiple regulatory bodies, ensuring information sharing and compliance.
• European Market Expansion: Many European countries recognize and accept the MGA license, allowing operators to expand their customer base in regulated markets.

Risks of Operating Without a License in Malta

• First-time violations can result in fines ranging from €10,000 to €500,000.
• Casinos or websites that fail to comply with local laws may be shut down immediately.
• Providing unlicensed iGaming services is a criminal offense, punishable by up to 5 years in prison. Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties.

How to Apply for a Malta iGaming License

1. Suitability Assessment

• The MGA evaluates the financial stability and management capability of applicants.
• The MGA collaborates with international regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies to conduct background checks on applicants, shareholders, and key management personnel.

2. Business Plan Review

• The MGA thoroughly examines the business plan, including marketing strategies, human resources, operational forecasts, and financial projections.
• Applicants must provide detailed revenue models and profitability assessments.

3. Operational and Regulatory Compliance Check

• The MGA reviews company registration documents, business structure, terms and conditions, policies, and operational procedures.
• Applicants need to prove that their financial reserves meet the requirements. The minimum share capital requirements for different license types are as follows:
  • Category 1 (casino games): €100,000
  • Category 2 (Sports Betting): €100,000
  • Category 3 (P2P Games): €40,000
  • Category 4 (Controlled Skill Games): €40,000
• Equity liability is capped at €240,000 per license.

4. System review

• After initial approval, applicants must implement their operations in a controlled technical environment.
• A MGA-approved independent auditor conducts a technical review to ensure the operator adheres to the proposed business plan.
• If there are discrepancies, applicants must resubmit their application.
• Once the system audit is successfully completed, the MGA grants a 10-year iGaming license.

5. Compliance Audits

• Within the first year of obtaining the license, the MGA conducts compliance audits to ensure operators adhere to regulations.
• iGaming operators must submit financial and operational reports as part of ongoing compliance requirements.

Malta gaming license application fees and license taxes

The cost of an MGA license consists of an application fee, annual license fee and gaming tax:

Application fees and license costs

Application fee: €5,000 (one-time payment, non-refundable)

Annual license fee:

Betting tax

In addition to the application fee and annual fee, gaming operators in Malta are also required to pay gaming tax depending on their license type.

Annual tax rate for (B2C) gaming services license

Annual revenue license fees for (B2B) gaming licenses

Note: Malta also has a tax policy that imposes a 5% gaming tax on gaming revenue generated by local players in Malta. This tax applies to the profits of bettors who are duly registered, have a fixed address or have a permanent residence in Malta. At the same time, even if you use an MGA license in other EU countries, there may still be additional taxes. Because different countries have different tax policies.

Summary

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) license is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after iGaming licenses globally. With its well-established regulatory framework, stable legal environment, flexible operational policies, and strong recognition in the European market, the MGA license has become the top choice for many iGaming companies. For businesses looking to enter the international iGaming market, holding an MGA license not only grants legal and compliant operational status but also provides opportunities for market expansion in Europe and access to tax incentives.

As an experienced white label iGaming provider, TC-Gaming White Label offers a professional and well-established technical team, along with a stable and high-performance iGaming platform. This includes a complete frontend and backend management system, payment gateway integration, and game API connections, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about technical issues. We guarantee that your iGaming platform operates efficiently and securely.

TC-Gaming White Label is more than just a white label iGaming provider—we are your trusted partner in the iGaming industry. Choosing TC-Gaming White Label means selecting a reliable, stable, and professional partner for your iGaming business.