MGA (Malta Gaming Authority)

MGA License – Application & process

What does the process of getting a gambling license in Malta look like?

Applicants must submit all the required information at one go electronically through the online portal. The MGA commits itself to the analysis of all information through multiple internal
process streams. In the application stage the MGA assesses whether an applicant:

1. Is fit and proper to conduct gaming business.
2. Is correctly prepared from a business strategy perspective.
3. Has the operational and statutory requirements to
   meet the obligations prescribed by law and policy.
4. Has correctly implemented what has been applied for,
   on a technical environment before going live

License Type 1 Gaming Services

Casino type games of chance played against the house, the outcome of which is determined by a random generator, and shall include, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, poker played against the house, lotteries, secondary lotteries, and virtual sports games; and/or

License Type 2 Gaming Services

Event or competition extraneous to a game of chance played against the house, the outcome of which is not generated randomly, but is determined by the result of an, and whereby the operator manages his or her own risk by managing the odds offered to the player; and/or

License Type 3 Gaming Services

Games of chance not played against the house and wherein
the operator is not exposed to gaming risk but generates revenue by
taking a commission or other charge based on the stakes or the prize,
and shall include player versus player games such as poker, bingo,
betting exchange, and other commission-based games; and/or

License Type 4 Gaming Services

Controlled skill games as per regulation 8 of the Gaming
Authorisations Regulations (SL 583.05).

Administrative fees

FEE €

1. Application Fee for New License 5,000 Paid upon application for a Gaming Licence
2. Application Fee for Renewal of License 5,000 Paid upon application for renewal of Licence
3. Key Function Certificate 50 Applicable per role. Paid upon application for a
   Key Function Certificate or changes thereto
4. Transfer of a Qualifying Interest in a Licensee 1,500 Paid upon the request for the transfer
5. Conversion to a Corporate License or
   changes to any of the Corporate Entities
   1,500 Paid upon application for such changes
6. The annual maintenance fee for a Recognition Notice 5,000 Paid yearly in advance
   Other administrative fees apply.

Application guide

Portal eServices Videos

Visit the MGA website and send in your application today!

FAQ

Many questions spring to mind when debating whether to apply for a remote gaming license. But also for players who for whatever reason needs to fight for their cause against a casino which they felt mistreated by. These issues need to be approached comprehensively so as to ensure that an informed decision is taken.

When taking such a decision, there are a number of factors that need to be considered. These include: (i) the untarnished reputation of the regulatory authority; (ii) the credibility and reputability of the license itself; (iii) the knowledge that the licensing framework is a legally tried-and-tested one; (iv) that the players have faith in the license; and (v) that the fees charged for the licensing process are reasonable.

These considerations rank among the topmost priorities for the Malta Gaming Authority (hereinafter referred to simply as the ‘Authority’) as it continuously strives to maintain its reputation as a sound and robust regulator in this ongoing evolution of the sector.

The idea of setting up a gaming company in Malta is attractive for a myriad of other reasons that would surely include that Malta is an EU member state, has adopted the Euro as its currency, is geographically positioned in the center of the Mediterranean Sea enjoying a temperate climate with a diverse highly-skilled and multilingual workforce imbued with a professional work ethic..

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How does a casino apply for an MGA license?
• What happens when an application is submitted to the Malta Gaming Authority?
• What type of licenses is available from MGA?
• How much do you pay to get a license from MGA?
• What type of games are allowed on a MGA licensed casino?
• How much gaming tax do MGA casinos pay?
• What key functions are required by the casino from MGA?
• What are the key functions’ roles?
• What are the advertising limits for a MGA casino?
• What is required by an MGA casino when advertising?
• What responsibilities do MGA casinos have for third-party advertising?
• What game types are licensable by the Malta Gaming Authority?
• What game type is associated with which license type?
• What is a gaming vertical?
• Does Fantasy Sports require an additional license by the MGA?
• What types of services and support functions can be outsourced by an MGA casino?
• How do I submit a complaint to and of an MGA casino?
• What is the process to submit a player complaint to the MGA or an ADR entity?
• How are my player funds protected at an MGA casino?
• Can a Licensee share a website and/or wallet with Licensees from another jurisdiction?
• Does the Malta Gaming Authority license Financial Markets’ Spread Betting?
• Where should the game rules for online games be displayed?
• How can a private person (player/customer) appeal a decision of the Malta Gaming Authority?

Casino companies (currently) licensed by the MGA

To regulate competently the various sectors

of the gaming industry which fall within the

competence of the Malta Gaming Authority. The

Authority ensures that licensed gaming operations

are fair and transparent to all players, prevent

crime, corruption and money laundering, whilst

protecting minors and vulnerable players.

Mission statement by the – Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

Companies who got their licensed canceled or suspended by the MGA

Unauthorized URLs

Enforcements