Our website uses  cookies for statistical purposes.

  • 152, Naxxar Road, San Gwann, Malta
  • clients(at)lawyersmalta.eu
  • +356 21 376 686
Our Articles

Obtain a Trade License in Malta

Obtain a Trade License in Malta

If you want to obtain a trade license in Malta, you can use our online services. You may explore this article for updated information on the conditions for obtaining such a license, and then discuss further details with our specialists in company formation in Malta.

 Quick Facts  
 Who needs a trade license in Malta?

– companies with commercial activities,

– auctioneers,

– door-to-door sellers,

– manufacturers,

– marketing agents,

– car boot sellers, etc. 

 When is a trade license required?

 Before starting the business operations in Malta

 Legislation for Maltese trade licenses

 – Trading Licenses Act in Malta,

– Legal Notice 40 of 2016

 Documents for trade licenses in Malta

– company documents,

– specific forms,

– clear criminal record,

– documents certifying company audit 

 Processing time

Around 5 days. Delays apply for incorrect documents. 

 License for import & export activities

Issued by the Maltese Chamber of Commerce 

 Documents required for food & beverages sales

Health Certificate issued by the Environmental Health Directorate 

 Approval and clearances

Made by the Commissioner of Police in Malta 

 Import and export licenses issued for businesses dealing with

– raw materials,

– machinery,

– semi-finished goods 

 Requirements for manufacturers in Malta

– application form B,

– company documents, 

– verifications made by the Licensing Unit in Malta 

 Transferable trade license (YES/NO)

 No

 Other types of licenses you might need

For gaming activities, travel agencies, cryptocurrency, financial services 

 Trade License Unit location

Valletta, Malta 

 How can a Maltese representative help you?

The preparation of trade license documents is made by our local company formation agents. They can also communicate with relevant institutions. 

 Why work with our local agents? We have experience and we work professionally. We  offer complete services at advantageous prices. 

Who needs a trade license in Malta?

  • any company owner wanting to develop commercial activities in Malta,
  • marketing trading, door-to-door sellers, marketing agents, auctioneers, and other specific activities also require a trade license.

IMPORTANT: There is no need for a trade license for many commercial businesses. However, the regulated business sector still needs a trade license in Malta.

What types of businesses need a trade license in Malta?

  • Retailers,
  • E-commerce companies,
  • Food & drink establishments,
  • Entertainment venues,
  • Import & export companies, etc.

Who issues trade licenses in Malta?

The Trade Licensing Unit in Malta, specifically the Commercial Department.

How is a trade license known in Malta?

Trading license or business license in Malta.

You can also explore this infographic with details on this subject:

What legislation oversees trade licenses in Malta?

Trading Licenses Act.

What are the steps in getting a business license in Malta?

  • complete a standard form provided by the Commercial Department,
  • present company documents,
  • pay the application fee,
  • submit the application.

NOTES:

  • first, you will have to register a company in Malta and then apply for a business license,
  • you will have to determine the license category first. Our Maltese agents can manage all the procedures via the official licensing portal.

What documents are required to obtain a trade license in Malta?

  • company documents (Articles of Association, Certificate of Incorporation),
  • IDs/Passports of applicants,
  • details about the business structure, head office, and shareholders are required at the time of application,
  • all the information about the activities of the respective company is necessary, but also about the employed persons,
  • in the case of sole proprietorship in Malta, the details about sole traders are sufficient,
  • certified police documents that attest to the clear criminal record of persons having a business in Malta. This document is part of the trade license application in Malta,
  • documents certifying the audit in the respective company, signed by a certified auditor.

What is the application fee for a trade license in Malta?

Around EUR 500, but it depends on the type of business license.

Can company owners and foreign businessmen apply for a trade license in Malta?

Yes.

Is a business license transferable in Malta?

Yes, but the transfer might be subject to specific approvals.

What is the time frame to get a business license in Malta?

Around 5-10 days.

Are there any precautions when dealing with a trade license application in Malta?

  • it is important to regulate the business by applying for a business license,
  • severe penalties can be imposed if businesses do not operate with a trade license,
  • business activities can be suspended if there is no trade license, etc.

Would you like to know more about how to get a business/trade license in Malta? You can contact our specialists forstarting a company in Malta for personalized services and assistance. Get your offer today!