Clym Logo
MT flag

MT

Malta Gaming Act

Overview

The Malta Gaming Act, Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta, consolidates and streamlines Malta's regulatory framework for the gaming sector. It provides a single, overarching legal structure for all types of gaming services, including online and land-based operations, and it is enforced by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

Regulation Summary

  • Enacted: 1 May 2018
  • Came into force: 1 August 2018
  • Repealed and replaced previous legislation such as the Lotteries and Other Games Act and the Remote Gaming Regulations

  • Operators offering gaming services (B2C) or critical gaming supply services (B2B) in or from Malta
  • Includes online gambling, betting, lotteries, gaming software, and land-based gaming services
  • Applies to both local and international operators licensed by the MGA

  • Certain low-risk games (e.g., non-profit bingo) may be exempt through regulations
  • National lotteries and activities outside the scope of gaming (e.g., promotional contests) are not regulated by this Act

  • Obtain a relevant license (Gaming Service License or Critical Gaming Supply License) from the MGA
  • Adhere to obligations for player protection, anti-money laundering, and responsible gaming
  • Comply with technical and operational standards, including auditing and reporting requirements
  • Maintain fit and proper status for key persons and shareholders

  • Clearly display the MGA license number and details
  • Provide transparent terms and conditions, responsible gaming tools, and contact info for support
  • Implement robust age verification and identity checks before allowing play
  • Offer mechanisms for player complaints and self-exclusion directly through the site

  • Key functions (like compliance, legal, and data protection) must be held by qualified individuals
  • Risk management and internal controls must be documented and subject to review
  • Data protection rules apply, including GDPR compliance for processing player data
  • Annual license fees and gaming tax obligations apply, depending on activity type

  • Players have the right to access, rectify, or delete their personal data under GDPR
  • Right to restrict or object to processing, and to data portability
  • Licensees must provide privacy notices and respond to data requests within 30 days

  • Regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
  • MGA has powers to audit, inspect, suspend, or revoke licenses
  • Administrative fines can reach up to €500,000 (approx. $540,000) per breach
  • Criminal sanctions may apply for operating without a license or fraudulent conduct