Comprehensive CASP Licensing Support:
We guide you through the entire CASP licensing process, including regulatory compliance, application assistance, and corporate structuring, ensuring a smooth path to obtaining your Malta CASP license;
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Malta CASP License: MiCA Regulation (EU Framework)
Adapt your Malta VFA License and MFSA authorization to the new EU MiCA Regulation. We provide tailored advice for crypto exchanges, wallet providers, and token issuers in Malta to ensure a seamless transition to the harmonized EU framework. Secure your MiCA future with LegalBison.
Malta has established itself as a leading jurisdiction for cryptocurrency and blockchain businesses, offering a robust regulatory framework for Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs). Since 2018, Malta has been a leader in crypto regulation, providing a clear compliance pathway through its comprehensive and well-established legal framework.
Malta has fully implemented the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) through its national Markets in Crypto-Assets Act as of December 30, 2024.
Known as the ‘Blockchain Island’, Malta enhances trust with institutional clients, investors, and banks. By maintaining a well-established and secure environment, Malta attracts providers seeking transparency and alignment with the latest European standards.
Navigating the transition into the MiCA landscape is highly challenging without professional legal assistance. LegalBison offers a proactive, crypto-friendly approach to help you secure a license in a jurisdiction with a brilliant international reputation.
Experts in fintech and crypto licensing worldwide.
Corporate Consulting Specialist, advising FinTech and digital asset companies on crypto licensing, MiCA compliance, and international corporate structuring across the EU and offshore jurisdictions.
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Book a free call nowLegal Experts Service to Obtain a MiCA CASP License in Malta
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) |
| Markets Authority | Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is the national markets authority overseeing CASP licensees and ensuring compliance with EU and local regulations. |
| Applicable Law | MiCA Regulation & Markets in Crypto-Assets Act |
| Corporate Tax | 35% |
| Minimum Capital | EUR 50,000 – EUR 150,000 (depending on license class) |
| Licensing Timeline | Approximately 2–3 months |
Expert Roadmap:
We provide a free first consultation to assess your project and licensing options;
Fast Incorporation:
Establish your Maltese LLC in as little as 5–10 working days;
Full Compliance Support:
We assist with the full package of documents and regulatory submissions to the MFSA;
Operational Setup Expertise:
Our team offers expert guidance on operational setup for crypto businesses in Malta, helping you meet substance and banking requirements to start providing regulated services quickly.
CASP license in Malta - MiCA license in Malta
What you need to know about MiCA in Malta
MiCA Regulation in Malta
The Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation is the EU’s regulatory framework for crypto assets regulation, setting out comprehensive rules for the crypto industry. A CASP license (also referred to as a service provider CASP license or MiCA license) is required for companies providing crypto-related financial services in Malta and across the EU under MiCA regulations.
Under MiCA, a CASP is any legal person whose business involves providing one or more crypto-asset services to third parties on a professional basis. All crypto businesses operating in Malta must transition from their existing Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) VFA registration to a CASP license to continue operating legally within the EU. MiCA compliance is essential for regulatory adherence within the crypto industry.
The primary regulatory body overseeing CASPs in Malta is the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). Under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, the MFSA enforces strict compliance standards to ensure investor protection and market integrity for any license in Malta.
The license authorises a broad spectrum of activities, including:
- Operating a crypto exchange;
- Custody and administration of digital assets;
- Portfolio management and execution of orders on behalf of clients;
- Transfer services for crypto assets.
Key Advantages of a Malta Crypto License
- EU Passporting & Reputation: As an EU member state, Malta’s MiCA-compliant license offers a clear route to operate across the Union with a prestigious international reputation;
- Attractive Tax Incentives: While the base CIT is 35%, Malta’s full imputation system can reduce the effective corporate tax rate to between 0% and 10%;
- Simple Substance Requirements: Economic substance is currently focused on having a registered office in Malta and at least one Executive Director based in Malta;
- Banking Access: Malta offers a relatively simple and fast process for opening bank accounts for licensed entities;
- Grandfathering Rights: Existing Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) registered before December 30, 2024, have until July 1, 2026, to finalise their transition to CASP status.
Requirements for a Malta CASP License for Crypto Asset Service Providers
Companies striving to register as CASPs in Malta must go through a multi-step preparatory procedure, as per the MiCA compliance requirements.
Corporate Entity
Applicants must first establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) with a registered address in Malta. Corporate structuring is a key step in establishing a compliant corporate entity for a CASP license in Malta.
Share Capital
Minimum capital requirements depend on the license class as stipulated by MiCA. This capital must be deposited into a local bank account.:
- Class 1: 50,000 EUR;
- Class 2: 125,000 EUR;
- Class 3: 150,000 EUR.
In addition to meeting the initial capital requirement for each license class, CASPs must maintain ongoing prudential safeguards, including capital adequacy and internal controls, to ensure financial stability and compliance. CASPs are required to maintain prudential safeguards at all times, equal to the higher of the minimum capital requirement or 25% of the previous year’s fixed overheads.
Local Presence
- Registered Office: The company must maintain a physical registered address in Malta;
- Governance Structure: A board of directors, senior managers, and key function holders – including Compliance Officer, Risk Manager, MLRO, and Internal Auditor – are required. Compliance officers and the internal auditor play crucial roles in anti-money laundering (AML), risk management, and internal audits, ensuring regulatory compliance and strong internal controls;
- Four Eyes Principle: CASPs in Malta must follow the ‘four eyes’ principle, which requires at least two experienced and reputable individuals to direct the business effectively, providing independent oversight and sound corporate governance;
- Separation of Roles: The beneficiary and the director must be two separate individuals, and at least one Executive Director must be based in Malta.
Fit-and-Proper & Documentation
- Identity Documents: Required for all beneficiary owners, directors, and shareholders;
- Business Plan: A short outline of activity, business strategy, and potential risks;
- Operational Policies: Detailed procedures for risk management, internal audit, AML/KYC controls, and complaint handling.
LegalBison is here to guide you through the licensing process, assess, and fix every existing gap. Our team manages the complex paperwork and regulatory inquiries so you can focus on growing your business.
The Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation is the EU’s regulatory framework for crypto assets regulation, setting out comprehensive rules for the crypto industry. A CASP license (also referred to as a service provider CASP license or MiCA license) is required for companies providing crypto-related financial services in Malta and across the EU under MiCA regulations.
Under MiCA, a CASP is any legal person whose business involves providing one or more crypto-asset services to third parties on a professional basis. All crypto businesses operating in Malta must transition from their existing Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) VFA registration to a CASP license to continue operating legally within the EU. MiCA compliance is essential for regulatory adherence within the crypto industry.
The primary regulatory body overseeing CASPs in Malta is the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). Under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, the MFSA enforces strict compliance standards to ensure investor protection and market integrity for any license in Malta.
The license authorises a broad spectrum of activities, including:
- Operating a crypto exchange;
- Custody and administration of digital assets;
- Portfolio management and execution of orders on behalf of clients;
- Transfer services for crypto assets.
- EU Passporting & Reputation: As an EU member state, Malta’s MiCA-compliant license offers a clear route to operate across the Union with a prestigious international reputation;
- Attractive Tax Incentives: While the base CIT is 35%, Malta’s full imputation system can reduce the effective corporate tax rate to between 0% and 10%;
- Simple Substance Requirements: Economic substance is currently focused on having a registered office in Malta and at least one Executive Director based in Malta;
- Banking Access: Malta offers a relatively simple and fast process for opening bank accounts for licensed entities;
- Grandfathering Rights: Existing Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) registered before December 30, 2024, have until July 1, 2026, to finalise their transition to CASP status.
Companies striving to register as CASPs in Malta must go through a multi-step preparatory procedure, as per the MiCA compliance requirements.
Corporate Entity
Applicants must first establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) with a registered address in Malta. Corporate structuring is a key step in establishing a compliant corporate entity for a CASP license in Malta.
Share Capital
Minimum capital requirements depend on the license class as stipulated by MiCA. This capital must be deposited into a local bank account.:
- Class 1: 50,000 EUR;
- Class 2: 125,000 EUR;
- Class 3: 150,000 EUR.
In addition to meeting the initial capital requirement for each license class, CASPs must maintain ongoing prudential safeguards, including capital adequacy and internal controls, to ensure financial stability and compliance. CASPs are required to maintain prudential safeguards at all times, equal to the higher of the minimum capital requirement or 25% of the previous year’s fixed overheads.
Local Presence
- Registered Office: The company must maintain a physical registered address in Malta;
- Governance Structure: A board of directors, senior managers, and key function holders – including Compliance Officer, Risk Manager, MLRO, and Internal Auditor – are required. Compliance officers and the internal auditor play crucial roles in anti-money laundering (AML), risk management, and internal audits, ensuring regulatory compliance and strong internal controls;
- Four Eyes Principle: CASPs in Malta must follow the ‘four eyes’ principle, which requires at least two experienced and reputable individuals to direct the business effectively, providing independent oversight and sound corporate governance;
- Separation of Roles: The beneficiary and the director must be two separate individuals, and at least one Executive Director must be based in Malta.
Fit-and-Proper & Documentation
- Identity Documents: Required for all beneficiary owners, directors, and shareholders;
- Business Plan: A short outline of activity, business strategy, and potential risks;
- Operational Policies: Detailed procedures for risk management, internal audit, AML/KYC controls, and complaint handling.
LegalBison is here to guide you through the licensing process, assess, and fix every existing gap. Our team manages the complex paperwork and regulatory inquiries so you can focus on growing your business.
Step-by-Step process to the Maltese CASP license
MiCA license in Malta — How to Apply
Malta’s comprehensive licensing regime under the MiCA framework requires crypto businesses to undergo a detailed authorisation process with the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). The application process for a CASP license generally takes 3 to 4 months from start to finish. Upon receiving a CASP license, businesses must satisfy all MFSA-imposed conditions before commencing operations.
STEP 1 OF 4
Estimated time2 weeks
Incorporate a company in Malta
The procedure starts with incorporating an LLC with a registered address in Malta. For it, you will have to:
- Provide basic identity information on beneficiaries, directors, and shareholders;
- Provide the name of your company, corporate email address, and a short description of the company’s activities;
- Submit a notarised Power of Attorney (if incorporating remotely);
- Pay an incorporation fee.
LegalBison provides assistance with the full package of documents for incorporating a Malta company. We also conduct remote incorporation on behalf of the client within a timeframe of approximately 2 weeks.
STEP 2 OF 4
Estimated time1-2 weeks
Form and submit an application to the MFSA
After an LLC is formed, the company’s representative must prepare a CASP licensing application and submit it to the MFSA through the MFSA Licence Holder Portal (‘LH Portal’). While Malta is still amending its authorisation process for CASPs, the main requirements are likely to be as follows:
- Company’s formation details and proposed name;
- A diagram of the actual or proposed shareholding structure;
- Indication of any previous regulatory history, including applications filed with other regulators;
- Identity info and contacts of the company’s representative (where applicable);
- Proposed organisational structure and info on the directors and key employees;
- An outline of the business structure, strategy, local substance, and potential risks.
Forming this documentation properly requires a high level of legal know-how. LegalBison is ready to assist you with the paperwork and its submission to the regulator and free you of the hassle.
STEP 3 OF 4
Estimated time2-3 months
Expect your application to be verified and approved
The MFSA acknowledges receipt within 5 working days and assesses completeness within 25 working days. If gaps are identified, the applicant has 20 working days to address them.
STEP 4 OF 4
Estimated time1 month
Secure a bank account for your Maltese CASP
Incorporating an LLC in Malta includes a paid-up share capital requirement. Consequently, it is also necessary to secure a bank account to deposit the share capital. We advise you to contact LegalBison for prompt and effective assistance in registering with a bank of your choice.
WHICH JURISDICTION AND LICENSE TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR PROJECT
Alternatives to a CASP license in Malta
We encourage our readers and clients to acknowledge the MiCA regulation and to rely on our legal experts before making a move. Other jurisdictions outside of the EU may be worth your consideration.
CanadaCrypto License in Canada – Money Services Business (MSB) License
from 4.950 €
- Top economy
- Secure and trusted
- Compoundable license
GeorgiaCrypto License in Tbilisi Free Zone Georgia
on request
- Fastest crypto license in Asia
- Free Zone setup with no taxes
- Very simple requirements
AnjouanCrypto License in Anjouan
on request
- Very fast licensing process
- Low requirements
- Recognized by banking institutions
LabuanCrypto License in Labuan
on request
- Reliable offshore jurisdiction
- Asian crypto license
- Low corporate tax
El SalvadorCrypto License in El Salvador
on request
- Bitcoin is legal tender
- Pro-crypto regulations
- High reputation
No offers are listed for this selection.
About the CASP (MiCA) License in Malta
How long does the Malta CASP license process take?
The entire process, from company formation to receiving authorisation, takes approximately 3–4 months.
What activities does the license allow?
The Malta CASP license allows for crypto exchange operations, management of assets, custody, and transfer services.
What are the key requirements for licensing as a Malta CASP?
First, you have to form an LLC with a local address in Malta. Then, you must prepare a package of documents and have your representative send it to the MFSA. LegalBison has sufficient experience with forming crypto companies on clients’ behalf and we can assist your project in obtaining its coveted CASP status in the shortest possible time.
Is Malta crypto-friendly?
Yes, Malta is a proactive jurisdiction that has established itself as a leading hub by providing a clear, robust regulatory framework for crypto businesses.
Is Malta CASP an offshore crypto license?
No, the Malta CASP license is not an offshore license but a regulated onshore authorisation issued by the MFSA that ensures full compliance with European Union standards and the MiCA framework.
What are the advantages of the Malta CASP license?
Securing a Malta CASP license grants your business full EU passporting rights, enabling you to offer crypto-asset services across all 27 Member States either through the right of establishment or the freedom to provide services. Additionally, Malta provides a highly mature regulatory environment overseen by the experienced Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), which has successfully transitioned its pioneering 2018 Virtual Financial Assets framework into the new MiCA regime. Existing Maltese license holders also benefit from specific grandfathering provisions, allowing them to continue operations during a transitional period until 1 July 2026.
Want to secure a CASP license in Malta? Let LegalBison assist you!
LegalBison takes pride in over 5 years of experience assisting companies with crypto licensing worldwide. Our team, including experienced FinTech MLROs, knows the intricacies of the MFSA’s requirements and the MiCA landscape. We provide a seamless transition to CASP status, freeing you from the administrative hassle.
Contact us today to schedule a free primary consultation and secure your project’s future in Malta.
The entire process, from company formation to receiving authorisation, takes approximately 3–4 months.
The Malta CASP license allows for crypto exchange operations, management of assets, custody, and transfer services.
First, you have to form an LLC with a local address in Malta. Then, you must prepare a package of documents and have your representative send it to the MFSA. LegalBison has sufficient experience with forming crypto companies on clients’ behalf and we can assist your project in obtaining its coveted CASP status in the shortest possible time.
Yes, Malta is a proactive jurisdiction that has established itself as a leading hub by providing a clear, robust regulatory framework for crypto businesses.
No, the Malta CASP license is not an offshore license but a regulated onshore authorisation issued by the MFSA that ensures full compliance with European Union standards and the MiCA framework.
Securing a Malta CASP license grants your business full EU passporting rights, enabling you to offer crypto-asset services across all 27 Member States either through the right of establishment or the freedom to provide services. Additionally, Malta provides a highly mature regulatory environment overseen by the experienced Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), which has successfully transitioned its pioneering 2018 Virtual Financial Assets framework into the new MiCA regime. Existing Maltese license holders also benefit from specific grandfathering provisions, allowing them to continue operations during a transitional period until 1 July 2026.
LegalBison takes pride in over 5 years of experience assisting companies with crypto licensing worldwide. Our team, including experienced FinTech MLROs, knows the intricacies of the MFSA’s requirements and the MiCA landscape. We provide a seamless transition to CASP status, freeing you from the administrative hassle.
Contact us today to schedule a free primary consultation and secure your project’s future in Malta.
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Malta is the European leader in crypto, IT, and FinTech spheres. Building a company there means securing yourself a brilliant reputation for years to come.
Eugene Pleshakov
MiCA Licensing Expert at LegalBison
