Capital Requirements:
The Minimum issued share capital of an international trading or holding company is the equivalent of Lm 500 expressed in any convertible foreign currency. At least 20% of the issued share capital has to be paid up on incorporation.

Who May Incorporate:
A limited liability company may be registered by the shareholders or their authorized agent. In practice, a local firm of lawyers, accountants or consultants is engaged to carry out all necessary formalities. Subscribers may be individuals or corporate. Nominee shareholding is also permissible through the services of a local nominee company licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority.

Time Required for Incorporation:
The length of time to incorporate depends on the type of company and on whether all information and documentation is available and in order. The process may take from as little as 24 hours.

Shareholding:
The minimum number of shareholders is normally two, however a “single member company” may also be registered under the Companies Act, 1995.

Registered Office:
Every company registered in Malta must have a registered office in Malta. The registered office of a company may be at the office of a firm of lawyers or accountants.

Directors and Secretary:
All companies must have at least one director and a secretary. The secretary must be an individual but no specific qualifications other than a general competence are required.

Meetings:
Every company must hold in each year a general meeting as its annual general meeting in addition to any other meetings in that year.

Company Returns:
Annual returns are to be filed annually by all onshore companies. Annual returns must be sent to the Registrar of Companies accompanied by a payment depending on the authorised share capital. This varies between Lm 50 - Lm 250.