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Malta continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading European jurisdiction for family offices. On 27 November 2024, the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) introduced updated guidance on Single Family Offices, making it easier, faster, and more cost-effective for wealthy families to manage their private wealth on the island.
Under the new rules, a Notified Professional Investor Fund (NPIF) established exclusively for one family no longer requires a licensed fund manager, reducing bureaucracy and operational costs. This makes Malta an increasingly attractive and competitive destination for families looking to centralize their investments and plan wealth across Europe.
Why Malta Is the Ideal Location for a Single Family Office
Malta offers a unique combination of strategic advantages for family wealth management:
- Full access to the EU market: Manage and invest assets across Europe while staying fully compliant with EU financial regulations.
- Transparent and predictable legal system: Based on English law, Malta provides strong protection for investors and their assets.
- Flexible NPIF structures: Families can choose between companies, trusts, or partnerships under NPIF rules.
- Cost-efficient setup: No licensed fund manager required, significantly lowering operational costs.
- Fast registration: MFSA commits to registering NPIFs within 10 working days.
- Stable business environment: Malta offers political stability, EU compliance, and a strong financial services ecosystem.
With these advantages, Malta is becoming a premier hub for families seeking Single Family Office setup in Europe.
How to Set Up a Single Family Office in Malta: A Simple Three-Step Process
1. Confirm NPIF Exemption
A legal opinion is required to confirm that the family office qualifies for an NPIF exemption. Since late 2023, written MFSA approval is no longer necessary – a qualified legal opinion is sufficient.
2. Choose the Right Structure
Families can select from several NPIF-approved structures, including companies, partnerships, or trusts. Governance must include at least one Maltese resident, usually a non-executive director, and a Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) must be appointed.
3. Notify the MFSA
Once the structure is ready, the family office notifies the MFSA. The authority commits to registering the NPIF within 10 working days, after which investment activities can start immediately.
Why Families Are Choosing Malta for Single Family Offices
The appeal of Malta lies in its combination of EU membership, business-friendly climate, and robust financial infrastructure. Key benefits include:
- Lower costs and simpler setup: No need for a licensed fund manager.
- Rapid registration: NPIFs can be operational in just 10 working days.
- Flexible structures: Choose a company, partnership, or trust.
- Full EU compliance: Operations adhere to all EU financial regulations.
- Strategic European location: Malta strengthens its position as a leading destination for family offices in Europe.
Malta offers families a secure, efficient, and compliant platform to manage wealth, plan succession, and consolidate investments.
Practical Tips for Setting Up a Family Office in Malta
- Engage a local advisor early: Professional guidance ensures compliance and smooth setup.
- Choose your structure wisely: Consider tax efficiency, succession planning, and governance flexibility when selecting between a company, trust, or partnership.
- Plan the governing body: Include at least one Maltese resident and appoint a qualified MLRO.
- Prepare complete documentation: Submitting a full notification package avoids delays.
- Think long-term: Malta offers a stable legal framework, EU compliance, and a strong financial services ecosystem for family offices.
Why 2025 Is the Right Time to Set Up a Family Office in Malta
With reduced regulatory hurdles, flexible NPIF structures, and rapid registration, Malta is positioning itself as a top destination for Single Family Offices in Europe. Whether your goals are investment consolidation, succession planning, or tax optimization, Malta provides a clear, efficient, and reliable path to manage family wealth.
How 1st Step Can Help
Setting up a Malta Single Family Office requires strategic planning and expert knowledge. 1st Step provides end-to-end support for non-resident family offices, including:
- Tailored structuring advice to maximize tax efficiency and compliance.
- Incorporation of Maltese companies, trusts, or NPIF structures.
- Corporate bank account setup and guidance.
- Drafting governance documents and internal policies.
- Filing NPIF notifications and ongoing compliance management.
- EU expansion strategies and investment planning.
With 1st Step, your Malta family office will be fully compliant, operational quickly, and strategically positioned for long-term growth.
Contact 1st Step today to learn how to establish a Single Family Office on Malta, streamline family wealth management, and access the full benefits of EU compliance and investment opportunities.
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