Read on to find out more about the online gambling laws in Malta, how the Malta Gambling Authority (MGA) protects players and the best online casino sites for Maltese residents to play real money games.
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About Malta
Malta (whose official name is the Republic of Malta) is a country made up of a series of islands in the Mediterranean Sea, with Italy to the south, Tunisia to the east and Libya to the north. Although only covering 316 square kilometres of land, Malta has a population of around 450,000, making it one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in the world. Malta is a hot spot for tourists, with people drawn to its glimmering beaches, stunning cathedrals, architecture, world-class shopping and high end casinos.
Is online gambling legal in Malta?
Gambling is a hugely popular activity in Malta with both locals and visitors, so it is not surprising this became one of the first countries to legalise and regulate online gambling. All forms of gambling in the country are regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) which is responsible for issuing casino licenses both online and offline.
Malta has four land based casinos: Dragonara Casino, Portomaso Casino, Oracle Casino and Casino Malta. The MGA has also issued licenses to some of the best online casinos in the world, including many of our top-rated casino sites. Maltese licensing not only allows players from Malta to play for real money at the licensed site, but also extends to players from overseas. Maltese gambling licenses are approved by the UK Gambling Commission, further attesting to Malta being one of the most trustworthy online gambling jurisdictions.
It is perfectly legal for Maltese players to play at any casino site with licensing from the MGA, while some offshore gambling jurisdictions also accept players from Malta.
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
For an online casino to gain certification from the Malta Gaming Authority, it must adhere to strict rules and regulations, with a strong commitment to player safety. The MGA closely monitors all licensees, working to ensure the gambling industry continues to have a positive contribution to the development of the country, while collecting gambling related taxes on behalf of the Maltese government.
The MGA is also responsible for protecting minors and vulnerable players, safeguarding player rights, promoting responsible gambling in a safe environment, ensuring the integrity of games and gaming devices, and keeping gambling free from criminal activity.
Best casino sites for Maltese players
Thanks to Malta’s relaxed online gambling laws, Maltese players have plenty of choice when it comes to choosing an online casino site. Sites with an MGA license are often considered the most trustworthy and reliable places to play for real money. If you are looking for a safe site to play casino games like slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, scratch cards and live dealer games, these leading casinos get our vote:
You will find games at these sites from top software developers like Microgaming, NetEnt, BetSoft, Quickspin, Ezugi, Evolution Gaming, iSoftBet, Yggdrasil, Play’n Go and many more, all available for instant-play directly over your Web browser with no software downloads required. Mobile play for iOS, Android and Windows Phone smartphone and tables is also available.
Keep in mind that just because online gambling is legal in Malta, it doesn’t mean all leading casino sites accept Maltese players. Several of our favourite casinos have blocked players from Malta, which is due to the laws set by their jurisdiction of operation. If you’re not sure if an online casino accepts Maltese players, check its terms and conditions or hit up the customer service team using live chat or email.
Playing for real money using EUR
Up until 2007, the official currency of Malta was the Maltese lira (MTL), but that was replaced with the Euro on January 1st 2008. Malta’s use of the EUR means players can deposit money using their local currency at a majority of the leading online casinos, as EUR is a widely accepted payment method at casino sites. Maltese players can choose from such safe deposit options as:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- Skrill
- Neteller
- Paysafecard
- Direct bank transfer
- And more – check your chosen casino for their full list of deposit options
To play for real money, sign up with a reputable online casino like the ones recommended on our site. If you register using our links you’ll also be eligible for some fantastic welcome packages that include things like matched deposit bonuses and free spins. When you sign up, simply select EUR as your chosen deposit method and then follow the prompts from the banking section to deposit money instantly into your account.