EMI license in Malta

In a world where electronic payments have become part of everyday life, Malta has deservedly gained a reputation as one of the most attractive jurisdictions for opening electronic payment platforms. It is here that you can get an EMI (Electronic Money Institution) license, which opens access to official work with electronic money, making money transfers and servicing customers not only within the European Union, but also throughout the European Economic Area (EEA). And all thanks to the right of passporting, which allows you to work in all EU countries without the need for re-licensing. Unlike traditional banks, EMI license holders do not issue loans, but have the right to open electronic wallets, issue payment cards, accept and store customer funds, and carry out a wide range of payment transactions. The combination of a flexible, yet clearly regulated supervisory system makes Malta particularly attractive to fintech projects, investors and startups looking for a stable and transparent environment for development.

What do you need to know about an EMI license in Malta?

The key role in the licensing process is played by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), the country’s main financial regulator. It is he who issues permits and supervises the activities of payment institutions that plan to operate in the electronic segment. The license is issued in accordance with the European Directive EMD2 and local legislation, and the process itself is a thorough check of the company for compliance with all established standards.

Main requirements for the applicant:

• Capital: for a full-fledged EMI company – not less than €350,000. If we are talking about small structures – a reduction to €50,000 is permissible, however, such companies are not allowed to exceed a limited volume of operations.
• Management: The management team must have at least two directors, one of whom must be permanently resident in Malta. In addition, all persons who have influence over the management (for example, shareholders with a stake of more than 10%) are subject to extensive due diligence regarding qualifications, integrity and experience.
• Physical presence: The company must have an office in Malta that can be inspected by the regulator at any time.
• Transparent ownership structure: No fictitious owners or nominee directors – the MFSA expects maximum transparency in the management structure.

Documents and procedure for obtaining a license

The application for an EMI license is accompanied by the preparation of a voluminous package of documents. It necessarily includes:

1. a) Detailed business plan, which describes the areas of work, target audience, projected financial indicators for three years and risk management strategy;
2. b) Organizational structure of the company – with a clear division of responsibilities, accountability and description of control mechanisms;
3. c) AML/CFT policies – that is, measures to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing, with the appointment of a financial monitoring officer (MLRO);
4. d) Documents confirming capital, its origin, as well as the company’s constituent documents;
5. e) Description of IT systems – how data storage, encryption, connection to payment gateways and GDPR compliance will be ensured.

The process includes a preliminary approval stage, submission of a full package, payment of state duty and in-depth analysis by the MFSA. Depending on the complexity of the structure and the applicant’s preparedness, the procedure may take several months. The regulator has the right to request additional documents, conduct interviews with top management and even initiate an external audit.

Ready made licenses for sale — entering the market without delays

In order not to waste time on licensing from scratch, many companies choose another path — purchasing ready-made structures with an already issued EMI license. These are the so-called ready made licenses, which have a formed legal framework, internal documentation, and often even bank accounts, CRM systems and established payment integrations. This option allows you to:

• minimize the launch time (up to several weeks);
• avoid bureaucracy and delays;
• get a business ready for immediate commercial activity.

We offer several proven companies with different profiles – you can choose the one that meets your goals and development plans.

Our services – from company formation to full-fledged launch

We provide full legal and operational support for financial companies that want to operate not only in Malta, but also in other stable jurisdictions. Our services include:

1. a) Banking and bank accounts – opening accounts for companies with an EMI license in European banks and PSP providers;
2. b) FINMA licensing – licensing of financial structures in Switzerland in accordance with the requirements of the FINMA regulator;
3. c) SRO membership – assistance in joining Swiss self-regulatory organizations;
4. d) Company formation in Switzerland – a full cycle of company registration in Switzerland, taking into account tax and corporate nuances;
5. e) Ready made licenses for sale – sale of licensed companies in Malta, Estonia, Switzerland, etc.;
6. f) Ready made company in Switzerland — purchase of companies with history, bank accounts and legal presence in Switzerland.

With many years of experience and a wide range of partners in different jurisdictions, we guarantee a safe and fast launch of your project.

Why Malta?

Malta is not just an island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a member of the EU and EEA, an English-speaking country with an effective tax policy, modern financial supervision and one of the best reputations in the field of payment services regulation. Trust in MFSA, the ability to passport services throughout Europe, a high level of customer protection — all this makes the EMI license in Malta a desirable asset for hundreds of companies seeking to legally enter the EU market.

Summary

EMI license in Malta is not just a formal document. It is a real tool that opens the way for companies to fully conduct financial activities within Europe. If you strive to work in a transparent, regulated system and at the same time have flexibility in products and scalability, this jurisdiction will be a good choice. And for those who want to start right away, there is an option Ready Made Licenses for sale – proven structures with a full package that can be used tomorrow. We support all stages: from company creation to post-license support. Malta is waiting for your business. Take advantage of its opportunities – and reach a new level in the financial sector now.