Financial Services Review | Friday, November 17, 2023
Intro:
If you're a UK entrepreneur seeking to expand your business ventures, Malta presents an attractive opportunity. With its strategic location, favourable tax regime, and pro-business environment, Malta has become a popular choice for business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors alike.
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Let’s explore few key reasons why registering a business in Malta is a worthwhile endeavour, along with a step-by-step walkthrough of the process.
Why Register a Business in Malta?
From corporate-friendly tax policies to being a beautiful and safe country with low crime rates, there are plenty of reasons why businesses choose to open a company in Malta.
1. Favourable Tax Regime:
Malta offers a highly advantageous corporate tax system, making it a compelling destination for businesses. The country operates a unique imputation system, where business owners can benefit from a refundable tax credit, effectively reducing their tax rate. Additionally, Malta has an extensive network of double taxation treaties with over 80 countries, including the UK, ensuring that businesses can avoid or minimize double taxation.
2. European Union Membership:
As a member of the European Union (EU) since 2004, Malta provides businesses with access to the EU Single Market. This advantageous position makes Malta an excellent gateway for UK entrepreneurs and business owners who are looking to register a business in Malta and establish a presence within the EU, even after the UK departed from the union. It is also a great option for businesses facing new uncertainties after being forced to pull out of the European business landscape post-Brexit.
3. Addressing Rising Costs:
The cost of doing business in the UK has been on the rise in recent years, due to the cost-of-living crisis and the effects of the pandemic. High rents, increasing labour costs, and energy expenses can place a significant financial strain on businesses, especially startups and SMEs. In contrast, Malta provides a more affordable environment for company formation, and for businesses to operate. The cost of living in Malta is generally lower than in many parts of the UK, resulting in reduced expenses for employee salaries and benefits. Furthermore, Malta's competitive tax rates contribute to cost savings for businesses.
4. Bridging Talent Gaps:
With 80% of UK businesses struggling to find the right talent to fill positions, Malta offers an attractive pool of skilled professionals across various sectors. In addition to the local talent pool, the EU free movement allows businesses in Malta to tap into a broader talent market from other EU member states.
5. Minimal Language Barrier:
English is one of the official languages of Malta, which makes it easier for British business owners to invest, register a company, communicate, and conduct business activities in Malta. Whether it's comfortably interacting with local stakeholders, employees, and clients or handling official business documents and regulatory compliance, the linguistic advantage of English simplifies the process.
Steps For Registering a Business in Malta:
1. Determine the Business Structure:
The first step is to decide on the legal structure of your business. Malta offers several options, including a public or private limited liability company, a sole proprietorship, a general partnership, or a branch of an overseas company. Each structure has its own advantages and requirements, so it's crucial to seek advice to choose the most suitable option based on your core business.
2. Reserve a Company Name Prior:
Once you have decided on the business structure, and prior to the Malta company registration, you need to reserve a unique name for your company. The name should not be identical to existing companies registered in Malta or contain any potentially offensive words. The company name should also properly represent the company's nature.
3. Register the Business:
For the Malta company registration, you need to submit the necessary documentation, including the memorandum and articles of association, details of directors and shareholders, the registered office address, the amount of share capital, as well as other important information. Once all the documents are in order and submitted, businesses should obtain a Certificate of Registration, which authorizes them to conduct business in Malta.
4. Obtain Necessary Licenses:
Depending on your business activity, you may need specific licenses or permits to operate legally in Malta. Certain sectors, such as financial services, gaming, and pharmaceuticals, have additional regulatory requirements. Businesses should engage corporate service providers to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, depending on their industry and business needs.
5. Set Up Accounting and Taxation:
Once the company has been registered, you will need to set up your company's accounting system and ensure compliance with Maltese accounting and tax regulations. This includes registering the company for income tax and VAT purposes. Malta operates on a self-assessment basis, and companies are required to submit annual financial statements and tax returns.
6. Open a Bank Account:
Once your Malta company registration is done, you will need to open a local business bank account. Choose a reputable bank that offers services suitable for your business needs. You will typically require the company's registration documents, proof of identity for directors and shareholders, and proof of the company's address.
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