Gaming Company in Malta: European Hub for iGaming Excellence

Malta has long been regarded as the iGaming capital of Europe. With its progressive regulatory framework, skilled workforce, and pro-business environment, the island nation has become the jurisdiction of choice for any gaming company in Malta looking to operate internationally, especially in the realm of online casinos, betting, and digital gambling platforms.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Malta a powerhouse for gaming businesses. We’ll also provide an updated list of gaming companies Malta hosts, highlight the top gaming companies in Malta, and offer insight into the process of obtaining an online casino Malta license under the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

Why Start a Gaming Company in Malta?

Malta’s popularity as an iGaming jurisdiction isn’t by accident. The country was the first EU member state to regulate online gambling, back in 2004. Since then, it has continued to build a reliable ecosystem for gaming companies through its licensing, tax efficiency, and access to talent. Key advantages:

• MGA Licensing: Regarded as one of the most reputable gaming regulators worldwide.
• EU Compliance: Malta offers full alignment with EU laws, allowing license holders to operate across many jurisdictions.
• Corporate Tax Efficiency: Effective corporate tax rates can be as low as 5% through Malta’s refund system, provided that proper structuring and compliance are in place.
• Skilled Workforce: A multilingual, highly educated labor pool with deep knowledge of gaming operations.
• Global Reputation: A Malta license gives credibility with banks, partners, and players.

Start a Gaming Company in Malta

Legal Framework: The Online Casino Malta License

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is responsible for licensing and regulating gaming companies on the island. The MGA is known for its strict but fair standards, giving confidence to operators and players alike.

Types of Gaming Licenses in Malta

Under the Gaming Act (Chapter 583), introduced in 2018, licenses are divided into four classes:

1. Type 1: Games of chance played against the house (e.g., roulette, blackjack, slots)
2. Type 2: Fixed-odds betting (sports betting)
3. Type 3: Peer-to-peer games (e.g., poker, betting exchanges)
4. Type 4: Controlled skill games

Each license covers both B2C (business-to-customer) and B2B (business-to-business) activities. The licensing structure is transparent, with clear requirements for compliance, auditing, player protection, and responsible gaming.

4 Types of Gaming Licenses in Malta

Process for Obtaining an Online Casino Malta License

1. Pre-application and planning
2. Submission of business plan, financials, and technical architecture
3. Due diligence on directors, shareholders, and key personnel
4. System audit by MGA-approved auditor
5. Issuance of a 10-year renewable license

The process apply an Online Casino Malta License usually takes 12 to 16 weeks, but may extend to 4–6 months depending on the complexity of the operation and the outcome of due diligence checks.

All key personnel and shareholders must pass MGA's fit-and-proper assessment, which includes criminal background checks and financial due diligence.

Taxation for a Gaming Company in Malta

Malta offers an effective corporate tax rate of 5% for most gaming companies, thanks to its full imputation and tax refund system. Tax highlights:

• Standard corporate tax: 35%
• Refund system: Shareholders can claim back up to 6/7ths of the tax paid, bringing the effective rate to 5%
• No withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents
• Double tax treaties with over 70 countries

This tax structure makes Malta not just compliant and transparent but also highly tax-efficient for gaming companies and investors.

Top 5 Gaming Companies in Malta

Over the past two decades, many global giants and fast-growing startups have chosen Malta as their operational or licensing base. Here's a look at some of the top gaming companies in Malta that have set industry standards in innovation, customer experience, and compliance.

1. Betsson Group

One of the largest online gaming operators in Europe, Betsson, has its operational headquarters in Malta. The company holds multiple MGA licenses and operates brands like Betsson, Betsafe, and NordicBet.

2. Kindred Group

Owner of well-known brands such as Unibet and 32Red, Kindred Group operates its core infrastructure from Malta. The company is also listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange.

3. Tipico

Primarily known in Germany and Austria, Tipico’s technology and trading teams are based in Malta. They also operate a fully licensed MGA casino and sportsbook.

4. LeoVegas

LeoVegas, a mobile-first online casino operator, has established strong roots in Malta, combining its Scandinavian ownership with Mediterranean regulatory expertise.

5. Evolution Gaming

A global leader in live casino solutions, Evolution Gaming operates one of its key European hubs in Malta, supporting clients with infrastructure, licensing, and game development.

Best Gaming Companies in Malta

List of Gaming Companies Malta Hosts

Here is a curated list of gaming companies Malta supports either through licensing, operations, or development centers:

Company Name	Specialization
Betsson Group	Casino, Sportsbook
Kindred Group	Casino, Poker, Sports
Tipico	Sports Betting
Evolution Gaming	Live Casino Software
LeoVegas	Mobile Casino
Aspire Global	iGaming Platform Provider
GiG (Gaming Innovation Group)	Turnkey iGaming Solutions
Pragmatic Play	Game Development
Red Tiger Gaming	Casino Slots
Relax Gaming	Aggregator & Games Studio

This list of gaming companies Malta hosts illustrates the breadth and depth of the island’s iGaming ecosystem, from operators to suppliers and innovators.

Employment and Economic Impact

The iGaming sector is one of Malta’s largest employers and GDP contributors. According to official MGA statistics:

• Over 300 licensed gaming companies operate under the MGA
• The sector contributes over 12% to Malta’s GDP
• More than 10,000 professionals are directly or indirectly employed in iGaming

Roles in compliance, risk, game development, marketing, and customer service are especially in demand.

Setting up a gaming company in Malta: Challenges and Considerations

While Malta is a top-tier jurisdiction, setting up a gaming company in Malta requires careful planning and long-term commitment. Key considerations:

• Regulatory compliance: MGA expects high standards of reporting, responsible gaming, AML, and data protection.
• Substance requirements: EU directives and BEPS initiatives require real presence (local staff, office, operations).
• Reputation management: As with any gambling entity, maintaining player trust and banking relations is critical.
• Competition: While Malta’s ecosystem is strong, it’s also competitive. Businesses need a clear brand and tech advantage.

Challenges of setting up a gaming company in Malta

Future Outlook for Malta’s Gaming Industry

Malta continues to lead with innovation and regulatory foresight. In 2025, the MGA is expected to:

• Strengthen compliance audits and transparency measures
• Expand initiatives in esports and skill-based gaming
• Enhance crypto payment guidelines under the DLT regulatory framework
• Promote responsible gaming with more tech-based interventions

As markets tighten elsewhere in the EU, many are viewing Malta as a safe harbor with strict but business-friendly oversight.

Conclusion: Why Choose Malta for Your Gaming Company?

Launching a gaming company in Malta offers a strategic advantage for operators aiming for international expansion, regulatory credibility, and financial efficiency. With its world-class online casino Malta license regime, deep talent pool, and extensive industry support, Malta remains unmatched in the European iGaming scene.

Whether you're a startup building your first casino platform or an established operator entering new markets, Malta provides the framework, tools, and reputation to succeed.