expert 9
Konstantin Mayskiy

Expert opinion

Malta Gaming Authority, also known as MGA, is an independent regulatory body that licenses and controls all types of gambling in Malta, including offline and online varieties.

Malta Gaming Authority, also known as MGA, is an independent regulatory body that licenses and controls all types of gambling in Malta, including offline and online varieties.

Regulator licensed casinos

A full list of operators operating under MGA licenses in the field of Internet gambling can be seen on the official website of the organization in the Remote Gaming section. There you will find four categories:

  • Licensed Operators – Operators operating under valid licenses following the laws of Malta.
  • Suspended Operators – Companies whose MGA licenses are no longer valid.
  • EEA Licensed Operators – Institutions with EEA licenses (we will talk about them in a separate article)
  • Unauthorized URLs – Sites that can claim they have a license MGA but are not really relevant to this organization.

Note that dozens of the most reputable online casinos are considered industry leaders and operate under MGA licenses.

Malta Gaming Authority review

Malta Gaming Authority is currently operating under the "Lottery and Other Games Act", adopted in Malta in 2001. This law sets out its goals and objectives: To competently regulate the various sectors of the lottery and gaming industry that are subject to its powers, ensure honesty and transparency of the gameplay for players, prevent crime, corruption, and money laundering, as well as protecting small and vulnerable market participantы. The scope of MGA extends to such gambling industries:

  • Remote gambling is the most extensive area, developing at an impressive pace. Malta Gaming Authority regulates numerous gambling websites providing various services in online gaming. These include online casinos, virtual bookmakers, poker rooms, bingo halls, and other establishments.
  • Casino: Four land-based casinos are now in Malta: Dragonara Casino, Malta Casino, Oracle Casino, and Portomaso Casino. They have licenses from this organization.
  • Cruise casinos are Gambling houses operating on Board liners that float in the territorial waters of Malta.
  • Commercial bingo halls are for playing bingo to obtain revenue.
  • Gambling devices are all kinds of devices used to organize different types of gambling.
  • National lottery: Malta has had a state monopoly on this activity since 1934. Since 2004, Maltro Lotteries Limited has operated national lotteries under an MGA license.
  • Nonprofit games are hosted by political, sports, religious, cultural, and other nonprofit organizations. The proceeds from them go to public needs.
  • Advertising lotteries are promotions organized to advertise goods and services on the market.
  • Entertainment machine – refers to various attractions for which a user fee is charged.
  • Betting on horse races and sweepstakes are offline bookmakers.

License holders of the Malta Gaming Authority have official representative offices in Malta and operate under local law requirements.

License types of Malta Gaming Authority

The Malta Gaming Authority issues four types of licenses:

  • Class 1 – remote gambling license. For example, it is required by operators of online casinos or organizers of online lotteries. It also allows you to use the operator's equipment and software with a fourth-class license.
  • Class 2 – license for bookmakers on the Internet.
  • Class 3 – a license for poker rooms and other establishments whose owners earn on the commission charged to customers.
  • Class 4 – license to provide services to gambling operators, excluding the licensee. In other words, its owner can provide software and other services to the owners of portals, but he can not be the organizer of the casino, sweepstakes, or other institutions.

Some large operators have several MGA licenses, allowing them to gamble in several areas. The MGA's official website has rules for obtaining licenses, requirements for licensees, procedures, a list of documents, and other important information on this issue.

Dispute resolution

The MGA recommends contacting them with complaints only if users believe there is a violation of the licensing terms. You can apply to the Player Support Centre section.
If we are talking about payments, bonuses, account blocking, or other difficulties that arise between the casino and the client, they should be solved by the club and independent bodies that deal with such issues.

Conclusion

Malta's Gaming Authority is in high demand among gambling operators and is rapidly developing. Casinoz will monitor the regulator's success and inform you about all the company's significant achievements and important events in its history. Please watch for updates.

Frequently asked Questions

📃 What is the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)?

The MGA is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing gaming activities in Malta, including online and land-based gambling.

📅 When was the MGA established?

The MGA was established in 2001, originally known as the Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA).

📝 What types of gaming does the MGA regulate?

The MGA regulates various forms of gaming, including online casinos, sports betting, poker, bingo, and land-based gambling establishments.

📜 Why is a Malta gaming license significant?

A Malta gaming license is highly regarded in the industry due to Malta's strict regulations and the MGA's reputation for maintaining high standards.

✅ What are the main responsibilities of the MGA?

Key responsibilities include issuing licenses, ensuring fair gaming practices, protecting players, preventing fraud and money laundering, and promoting responsible gambling.

📚 How many types of licenses does the MGA offer?

The MGA offers four main types of licenses, covering different gaming activities such as casino games, sports betting, peer-to-peer gaming, and controlled skill games.

🌏 Is a Malta gaming license valid in other countries?

While a Malta license allows operators to offer services to players in various countries, operators must still comply with local laws in the jurisdictions where they operate.

🕐 How long does it take to obtain a Malta gaming license?

The licensing process typically takes 12-16 weeks, but can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the applicant's responsiveness.

💶 What are the costs associated with a Malta gaming license?

Costs include application fees, annual license fees, and compliance contributions. Exact amounts vary based on the type of license and the operator's revenue.

😎 How does the MGA ensure player protection?

The MGA enforces strict regulations on operators, including fair gaming practices, responsible gambling measures, and secure handling of player funds.

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Main info
Casinos number 8
Jurisdiction Malta
License types Сlass1 , Сlass2 , Сlass3 , Сlass4
Name Malta Gaming Authority
Site languages English
Website https://www.mga.org.mt
🗓️ Foundation date 2001
Contacts
Feedback form Yes
🏠 Post address Malta Gaming Authority Building SCM 02-03, Level 4, SmartCity Malta, Ricasoli SCM1001, Malta
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