Malta CASP License: MiCA Regulation (EU Framework)

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.

Quick Facts

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.

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.

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.

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.

1-2 weeks

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.

2-3 months

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.

1 month

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.

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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.

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.