Licensing for Controlled Gaming Premises in Malta

Authorisation from the Malta Gaming Authority is required for all controlled gaming  premises with the intention of offering, hosting, or operating one or more Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) in Malta.

All premises must be operated by a licensed business-to-consumer (B2C) licensee, where the license holder must obtain all relevant approvals for every premise the licensee wishes to operate from.

In addition, the Gaming Premises Regulations deal with the physical player interfaces that are within the dedicated controlled gaming premises. This occurs through having access controls and self-exclusion mechanisms, which work in tandem with limitations of the respective locations. These premises do not include other premises that are offered by virtue of a Malta Government Concession or premises that solely offer bingo and/or tombola games.

A Planning Authority permit of the appropriate class must be issued in order for controlled gaming premises to be approved under the Gaming Premises Regulations. In addition to filing such applications to the Planning Authority, applicants can also request the MGA for a certificate. The purpose of this certificate is to allow such premises to be used as controlled gaming premises.

Upon issuance of the certificate by the Planning Authority, the applicant must forward all relevant paperwork to the MGA for review and acquisition of the Controlled Gaming Premises Certificate.

Furthermore, just like other physical premises, controlled gaming premises is subject to scrutiny by MGA-assigned inspectors. These individuals will be present on the premises on a frequent basis to ensure that all games are operated fairly according to the law.

Once the Controlled Gaming Premises License has been issued, gaming verticals (or categories) can be offered under the license. Prior approval of the verticals is required to ensure that they adhere to the law and its regulatory objectives.