Fintech Advisory Services in Malta

Expert MFSA Licensing Advisory for Fintech Start-ups

Launching a fintech business is about far more than developing innovative technology. Success depends on combining a scalable commercial model with a robust regulatory framework, effective governance, sound risk management, and a clear licensing strategy.

At White Emerald, we provide specialist fintech advisory services in Malta, helping entrepreneurs, founders and innovative businesses navigate the regulatory landscape and establish compliant financial services businesses within the European Union.

Our experienced team assists fintech start-ups throughout the licensing journey, from the initial assessment of the business model through to regulatory authorisation by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and beyond.

We advise clients seeking authorisation as:

• Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs)

• Payment Institutions (PIs)

• Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA)

Whether you are building a payment platform, digital wallet, embedded finance solution, fintech application, remittance platform, merchant acquiring business or crypto-asset service, we provide the strategic guidance needed to help you establish a regulated business in Malta.

Why Malta for Fintech?

Malta has developed into a recognised European financial services jurisdiction, offering fintech businesses access to the European Single Market within a mature regulatory environment.

As an EU Member State, Malta provides access to passporting rights (where applicable), enabling authorised firms to expand their services across the European Economic Area in accordance with the relevant legislation.

Malta offers fintech businesses:

• A respected financial regulator

• EU regulatory framework

• Access to European markets

• Strong professional services sector

• English-speaking business environment

• Experienced financial services ecosystem

• Skilled workforce

• Stable legal framework

For many fintech businesses, Malta represents an ideal location from which to build regulated financial services operations.

Our Fintech Advisory Approach

Obtaining regulatory authorisation requires significantly more than completing an application form.

The MFSA expects applicants to demonstrate that they possess:

• An appropriate governance framework

• Adequate capital

• Experienced management

• Strong compliance arrangements

• Effective risk management

• Robust safeguarding procedures

• Secure technology infrastructure

• Sustainable business planning

Our role is to guide clients through every stage of this process.

We work closely with founders from the earliest stages of development to ensure that both the commercial model and regulatory framework develop together.

Electronic Money Institution (EMI) Licensing

Launch Your Digital Payments Business

Electronic Money Institutions are authorised to issue electronic money and provide a range of payment services.

An EMI licence can be appropriate for businesses developing:

• Digital wallets

• Payment apps

• Fintech platforms

• Card programmes

• Merchant payment solutions

• Cross-border payment platforms

• Embedded finance solutions

• Business payment platforms

Obtaining an EMI licence allows businesses to operate within the European regulatory framework while demonstrating credibility to customers, investors and commercial partners.

Our EMI Licensing Services

We assist clients with:

• Regulatory feasibility assessments

• Licensing strategy

• Business model analysis

• Corporate structuring

• Governance framework development

• Business plan preparation

• Financial projections

• Capital planning

• Compliance framework development

• AML/CFT policies

• Risk management framework

• Safeguarding arrangements

• ICT governance documentation

• Outsourcing framework

• MFSA application preparation

• Regulatory correspondence

• Post-authorisation advisory

EMI Licensing Process

Initial Consultation

We begin by understanding your fintech business, products, target customers, jurisdictions, projected transaction volumes and commercial objectives.

This enables us to determine whether an EMI licence is the appropriate regulatory route.

Regulatory Assessment

We conduct a detailed review of the proposed activities against the applicable regulatory framework and identify the licensing requirements.

Where alternative licensing options may be more appropriate, these are discussed at an early stage.

Corporate Structuring

We assist in designing an appropriate corporate structure, governance model and ownership framework capable of supporting a regulated financial institution.

Documentation Preparation

Working closely with the client, we prepare the documentation typically required for an EMI licence application, including:

• Business Plan

• Financial Forecasts

• Governance Framework

• Compliance Manual

• AML/CFT Policies

• Risk Management Framework

• Safeguarding Policy

• ICT Policies

• Operational Procedures

MFSA Application

We coordinate the submission of the application and supporting documentation to the MFSA.

Regulatory Engagement

The MFSA commonly requests additional information during its review.

We assist clients in preparing responses, attending meetings and managing ongoing communications with the regulator.

Authorisation

Following successful completion of the licensing process, we continue assisting clients with implementation, governance and ongoing compliance.

Payment Institution (PI) Licensing

Deliver Payment Services Across Europe

Not every payment business requires an Electronic Money Institution licence.

Businesses providing payment services without issuing electronic money may instead require authorisation as a Payment Institution.

Payment Institutions commonly support:

• Payment processing

• Merchant acquiring

• Payment gateways

• Money remittance

• Payment initiation services

• Account information services

• Corporate payment platforms

Selecting the correct licence is one of the most important strategic decisions at the beginning of any fintech project.

Our Payment Institution Advisory Services

We assist clients with:

• Regulatory assessments

• Licensing strategy

• Business planning

• Corporate governance

• Financial planning

• Compliance framework

• Risk management

• AML/CFT documentation

• Operational procedures

• Internal controls

• Application preparation

• Regulatory correspondence

• Ongoing advisory

Payment Institution Licensing Process

Business Model Review

We assess the proposed activities to determine whether Payment Institution authorisation is appropriate.

Licensing Strategy

We identify the relevant payment services, regulatory obligations and supervisory expectations.

Corporate & Governance Framework

We assist with governance structures, board composition, key function holders and internal controls.

Regulatory Documentation

We prepare the documentation required to demonstrate operational readiness.

MFSA Submission

We coordinate submission of the application and supporting documentation.

Supervisory Review

Throughout the review process we assist with regulatory queries, meetings and additional information requests.

Operational Readiness

Following authorisation we continue supporting governance, compliance and business development.

MiCA Licensing

Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) Advisory

The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) has introduced a harmonised regulatory framework for crypto-asset service providers throughout the European Union.

Businesses providing regulated crypto-asset services may require authorisation before commencing operations.

Examples include businesses involved in:

• Crypto exchanges

• Crypto brokerage

• Crypto custody

• Crypto transfers

• Crypto order execution

• Portfolio management

• Crypto investment advice

• Crypto placement services

Our advisory services help founders understand whether MiCA applies to their business and support them throughout the authorisation process.

Our MiCA Advisory Services

We assist clients with:

• Regulatory assessments

• Business model analysis

• CASP licensing strategy

• Governance framework

• Risk management

• Compliance policies

• Operational framework

• AML/CFT controls

• ICT governance

• Outsourcing arrangements

• Business plans

• Financial forecasts

• Application preparation

• Regulatory engagement

• Ongoing compliance

MiCA Licensing Process

Regulatory Assessment

We determine whether the proposed activities fall within the scope of MiCA and identify the relevant crypto-asset services.

Business & Regulatory Planning

We review the business model to ensure that commercial objectives align with regulatory expectations.

Governance Development

We assist with governance, organisational structure, internal controls and compliance arrangements.

Documentation

We prepare the comprehensive documentation supporting the application.

Application Submission

We coordinate submission of the application to the MFSA together with the supporting documentation.

Regulatory Review

We assist throughout the regulatory review process, including responses to supervisory questions.

Ongoing Compliance

Following authorisation we continue supporting governance, compliance and regulatory obligations as the business grows.

Supporting Fintech Businesses Beyond Licensing

Obtaining regulatory approval is only the beginning.

As fintech businesses grow they must continue meeting regulatory expectations while developing commercially.

Our ongoing advisory services include:

• Corporate governance

• Board advisory

• Regulatory compliance

• AML/CFT support

• Risk management

• Policy reviews

• Business expansion

• Passporting strategy

• Regulatory change management

• Strategic advisory

We aim to become a long-term adviser rather than simply assisting with a licence application.

Why Work With Us?

A Wealth of Regulatory Experience

Our team combines extensive experience across financial services, fintech, corporate advisory, governance and regulatory strategy.

We understand that founders need advice which is commercially practical as well as technically sound.

Start-up Focus

Building a regulated fintech business presents unique challenges.

We work with founders from the earliest stages to help transform innovative ideas into regulated financial institutions.

End-to-End Advisory

From business planning through licensing and post-authorisation support, we remain involved throughout the lifecycle of your business.

Personalised Service

Every fintech business is different.

Our advice is tailored to your products, target markets, commercial objectives and growth strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EMI or a Payment Institution licence?

This depends on whether your business will issue electronic money or provide payment services only. We begin every engagement with a regulatory assessment to determine the most appropriate licensing route.

How long does MFSA licensing take?

Timeframes vary depending on the complexity of the business model, the quality of the application, and the responsiveness of the applicant. Thorough preparation significantly improves the efficiency of the licensing process.

Can a fintech start-up obtain an MFSA licence?

Yes. Many regulated fintech businesses begin as start-ups. However, founders must demonstrate adequate governance, capital, compliance, operational readiness and a sustainable business model.

Can you assist after the licence is granted?

Absolutely. We continue supporting clients with governance, compliance, regulatory reporting, board advisory and business growth after authorisation.

Build Your Fintech Business with Confidence

Obtaining an MFSA licence is one of the most significant milestones in the development of a regulated fintech business.

Whether you are seeking an Electronic Money Institution licence, Payment Institution licence, or MiCA authorisation, our experienced team can help you navigate the regulatory landscape with confidence.

At White Emerald, we combine regulatory knowledge, commercial understanding and practical experience to help fintech founders establish businesses that are built for long-term success.

Explore Our Fintech Advisory Services

Speak with our team to discuss your business model, understand your licensing requirements, and begin your journey towards regulatory authorisation in Malta.