Starting a business in Malta, whether as a freelancer, sole trader, or small enterprise, has become much simpler thanks to the country’s “one-stop shop” model.
Instead of visiting multiple government departments for tax, VAT, and employment registrations, entrepreneurs can now complete most steps through a single online form or with assistance from Business 1st, Malta’s central business support service.
This approach was designed primarily for self-employed individuals (sole traders), but small companies can also use the same support network to navigate licensing, registration, and compliance.
The Role of Business 1st
Business 1st (also known as BusinessFirst) is Malta’s official one-stop business centre, operated by Malta Enterprise in collaboration with the Malta Chamber of SMEs.
It serves as the main point of contact for entrepreneurs who want to start, expand, or formalise their business activities. Its key services include:
- Guidance on registering as self-employed or forming a company
- Help with tax, VAT, and Jobsplus registration
- Assistance with licences and permits for regulated activities
- Information on grants and incentive schemes
- Direct connections with relevant government departments
The goal is to reduce bureaucracy and make it easier for individuals and small businesses to operate legally and efficiently in Malta.
📍 One-Stop Shop Coming Soon to Gozo
Business 1st is expected to extend its services to Gozo in the coming months. A new office is planned within the Malta Enterprise building in Gozo, providing local entrepreneurs with direct access to the same one-stop services currently available in Malta.
For now, Gozo-based individuals can visit the One-Stop shop – Business 1st offices at Ċentru Joseph Grech, 2nd Floor, Cobalt House, Notabile Road, Central Business District (Mrieħel), Birkirkara, BKR 3000, Malta for in-person assistance.
What You Can Register Through the One-Stop System
If you’re registering as self-employed, you can use the Business Startup – Sole Traders eForm on servizz.gov.mt to complete several registrations in one step.
| Service | Handled via the eForm | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VAT registration | Apply for a VAT number or opt for an exemption (Article 11). | Exemption applies to small earners below the VAT threshold. |
| Tax number | Automatically issued if you don’t have one. | Non-residents receive a new Maltese tax ID. |
| Jobsplus registration | Registers you as self-employed with Malta’s employment agency. | Confirms your status for social contributions. |
| PE number | Issued if you plan to employ staff. | Optional for solo operators. |
| National Statistics notification | Automatically informs the NSO of your business activity. | For record-keeping and official data. |
| Social security contributions | Integrated into your registration process. | Payable three times per year. |
For limited companies, registration is done through the Malta Business Registry (MBR), but Business 1st can guide you through the process and assist with follow-up registrations.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
- Prepare your documents
Have your ID, proof of address, and business details ready. - Complete the Business Startup – Sole Traders eForm
Log in with your eID on servizz.gov.mt. Provide details about your planned activity, VAT status, and employment intentions. - Automatic inter-agency processing
Within about 48 hours, you’ll receive your VAT number, tax registration, Jobsplus confirmation, and other relevant numbers (such as PE – Permission to Employ). - Confirm social security setup
Make sure your social security contributions are properly linked to your tax record. - Check if a licence is required
Activities like catering, retail, or beauty services may need extra permits. Business 1st can guide you to the right authority. - Comply with reporting duties
File quarterly VAT returns (if applicable), pay social contributions, and submit your annual income tax return.
Support for Micro and Small Enterprises
While the online eForm system is primarily designed for sole traders, Business 1st also provides valuable support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Entrepreneurs who wish to set up a company rather than register as self-employed can still rely on Business 1st for step-by-step guidance throughout the process.
The centre assists companies with formation procedures handled by the Malta Business Registry (MBR) and helps new business owners understand their obligations relating to tax, VAT, and employment registration. It also provides access to a range of incentive schemes offered by Malta Enterprise, which are aimed at encouraging investment, innovation, and growth.
In addition, Business 1st offers information on employment and training support through Jobsplus, as well as direction on sector-specific regulations that apply to activities such as import and export, hospitality, or digital services. By bringing these resources together under one roof, the system enables small enterprises to find accurate information and personalised assistance without having to navigate multiple government departments independently.
This integrated structure allows small businesses to find all necessary information and support in one place.
Special Considerations
Although Malta’s one-stop system makes business registration straightforward, certain conditions and exceptions apply depending on your nationality, business type, and expected turnover. Before submitting your application, it’s important to understand these specific requirements to ensure a smooth registration process.
Non-EU Nationals
Third-country nationals (non-EU residents) must obtain a Single Work Permit or equivalent authorisation before operating as self-employed. Approval may depend on investment size, innovation, or job creation.
VAT Regime Options
Those with limited turnover can register under Article 11 (exempt) to simplify reporting, while others choose Article 10 (standard VAT) if reclaiming input VAT is important.
Liability and Growth
Sole traders have unlimited personal liability, so when business activities expand, converting into a limited liability company is often advisable.
EU Nationals Relocating to Malta
EU and EEA nationals can register as self-employed in Malta immediately after relocating, without needing to have their residence card in advance. Under EU freedom of movement rules, they may stay in Malta for up to three months without registering their residence, giving them time to establish their business, obtain a VAT number, and complete their tax and Jobsplus registrations through the one-stop shop system or servizz.gov.mt.
If you decide to go through the One-Stop Shop route in person, visit the Business 1st office and bring your identification document and proof of address in Malta. These are required to verify your details and process your registration smoothly.
Advantages of Malta’s One-Stop Approach
Malta’s one-stop shop offers entrepreneurs a faster and more coordinated way to start and manage their business. The system allows most registrations, including tax, VAT, Jobsplus, and social security, to be completed online through servizz.gov.mt or directly with Business 1st. This integrated setup reduces bureaucracy and waiting times, with many applications processed within just a few days. Entrepreneurs also benefit from direct guidance, ensuring accuracy and compliance from the very beginning.
Malta’s streamlined registration system has made it one of the most efficient EU jurisdictions for starting self-employed or small-scale business operations.
Your Next Step
Whether you’re a freelancer or running a small company, Malta’s one-stop shop system makes business setup straightforward and accessible.
For expert assistance with registration, or compliance, contact Expatax Malta today — your trusted partner for doing business in Malta.
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