Obtain a Trade License in Malta
Learn the conditions and documents for obtaining a trade licence in Malta for your business, then discuss the details with our company formation agents.
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 Commerce Department (Trade Services), where an import/export licence is required |
| 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) | Yes, subject to approval |
| 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 Commerce 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 are the steps in getting a business license in Malta?
- complete a standard form provided by the Commerce 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 for starting a company in Malta for personalized services and assistance. Get your offer today!
Simon Ciantar, CPA · 1 October 2026Simon Ciantar is CEO of Ciantar Associates and a qualified accountant and registered auditor.