How to obtain a gambling license in Malta? 

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is one of the first bodies to regulate gambling activities in this sector. It is thanks to the creation of this regulator that Malta has become a hub for the iGaming industry.

2001: The MGA (formerly the Lotteries and Gaming Authority) became one of the first bodies to oversee the sector.

2004: Malta became the first EU member state to adopt comprehensive legislation for the remote gambling sector.

2017: The MGA announces its intention to review the regulatory framework for gambling activities, abandoning license classes.

2018: Malta passes the Gaming Act 2018, consolidating all existing gaming sectors into a single piece of legislation.

The MGA has continuously amended its legislative framework to keep pace with the rapidly evolving iGaming sector. Malta’s reputation as a reputable gambling regulator has been further strengthened following the adoption of the Gambling Act in 2018.

In 2018, the MGA issued only two main categories of licenses: business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer licenses. In addition, it increased the validity period of licenses from five to ten years.

Since its inception, the MGA has helped Malta become a world-renowned iGaming hub. Operators seeking efficient and reliable solutions continue to turn to the MGA’s regulatory framework.

Thorough audits and inspections reflect strict regulation and compliance with regulatory requirements. In 2021 alone, the MGA conducted 65.5% of all licensees through 54 on-site audits and 230 desk audits.

A commitment to compliance is combined with a desire to streamline processes for licensees. In recent years, the MGA has significantly improved its operations by reducing bureaucracy and simplifying procedures, making it more convenient and efficient for operators.

As of 2024, there are more than 300 gaming establishments registered in Malta, and the MGA licenses more than 10% of the world’s online casinos. The MGA’s proactive strategy, which includes participation in international investigations into the integrity of sports betting and gambling, as well as regulatory cooperation, contributes to the global spread of licenses.