How to Obtain a Crypto License in Malta
Malta — the "Blockchain Island" — regulates crypto activity under the Virtual Financial Assets Act, with license classes tiered by activity: exchanges and custodians, ICO issuers, and brokers/agents.
BIZ TRP confirms the real requirements before you commit to anything.
At a glance
- Entity
- Private Ltd (Private Limited Liability Company)
- Corporate tax
- 35% headline (~5% effective for many) — via shareholder refund system
- License type
- Virtual Financial Asset (VFA) License
- Authority
- Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA)
- Min. license capital
- Varies by license class — Class 1 (exchanges/custodians), Class 2 (ICO issuers), Class 3 (brokers/agents) — confirm the specific threshold for your activity
- Review timeframe
- Not specified — confirm current timelines
What you need
- A registered legal entity in Malta (foreign companies may apply by establishing a presence) Required
- A competent management team with relevant finance, technology, and compliance experience Required
- An appointed Compliance Officer with relevant experience and qualifications Required
- Effective KYC/AML policies Required
- A clear operational structure for customer service, risk management, and data protection Required
Steps to obtain the license
Register your Malta company
With the Malta Business Registry (MBR); obtain a business registration number and complete tax registration.
Appoint a Compliance Officer
Responsible for overseeing ongoing regulatory compliance.
Prepare your documentation
Business plan, KYC/AML policies, risk-management framework, corporate structure details, and compliance policies.
Submit your VFA license application
To the MFSA, with all documentation, forms, and applicable fees.
Await approval and due diligence review
Background checks on management and assessment of compliance policies.
Obtain your license
Subject to any conditions or obligations attached.
Common questions
Which VFA license class do I need?
Class 1 covers exchanges and custodians, Class 2 covers ICO issuers, and Class 3 covers brokers and agents — the right class depends on your specific activity.
Can a foreign company apply?
Yes, by establishing a presence in Malta.
What ongoing obligations apply?
Regular reporting, audits, KYC/AML adherence, and periodic review of internal policies against legislative changes.
Ready to apply for a crypto license in Malta?
BIZ TRP confirms the real requirements and current timelines for your Malta crypto license before you commit to anything.
Talk to us about Malta crypto licensing Email us