Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) Licence Explained
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is one of the most respected gambling regulators in Europe and licenses hundreds of online casinos. Here is how its licence works and what it means for you.
About the MGA
Malta was one of the first EU countries to regulate online gambling. Its regulator, originally the Lotteries and Gaming Authority, became the Malta Gaming Authority in 2015 and now operates under the Gaming Act of 2018. Many major online casino groups hold an MGA licence, which can be used to serve players in various markets that do not require a local licence.
What an MGA Licence Means for Players
| Area | Protection |
|---|---|
| Player funds | Operators must protect player balances |
| Fairness | Games and RNGs are tested and certified |
| Complaints | The MGA's player support function handles unresolved complaints |
| Responsible gambling | Operators must provide limits and self-exclusion |
| Anti-money laundering | Strict customer checks and monitoring |
MGA vs Other Licences
The MGA is generally considered stricter than offshore regulators such as Curaçao or Anjouan, though some national regulators, such as the UKGC, impose even tighter rules on bonuses and game design. An MGA licence is a strong sign of a reputable operator.
How to Check a Casino's Licence
- Scroll to the casino's footer and find the licence number and the name of the company that holds it.
- Open the regulator's official website and search its public register for that number or company.
- Make sure the licence is active and that the casino's domain is listed under it.
- Be wary of logos that link nowhere or to pages that are not on the regulator's own website.
Types of MGA Licences
| Licence | Who it is for |
|---|---|
| B2C gaming service licence | Operators offering games directly to players, such as online casinos |
| B2B critical gaming supply licence | Suppliers such as game studios and platform providers |
The licence also specifies which types of games an operator can offer, from casino games to betting and peer-to-peer poker.
How the MGA Protects Players
- Requires operators to keep player funds protected and separate from operational funds.
- Audits games and random number generators through approved testing labs.
- Sets responsible gambling requirements, including deposit limits and self-exclusion.
- Investigates complaints that operators fail to resolve.
- Can fine operators or suspend and cancel licences.
MGA-Licensed Casinos for UK Players
An MGA licence does not by itself allow a casino to serve British players – it also needs a UKGC licence. Many MGA-licensed groups hold both, so check the footer for the licence that applies to your country.