The Malta Business Registry (“MBR”) has enacted a series of important changes to the Companies Act (Register of Beneficial Owners) Regulations, by virtue of LN 127 of 2025. These changes form part of the first phase of Malta’s transposition of the Sixth Anti-Money Laundering Directive, specifically aligning with Article 74 of Directive (EU) 2024/1640, which strengthens EU-wide mechanisms to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.
A significant element of this legal update is the revision of Regulation 7, which grants access to the beneficial ownership information recorded on the register with respect to the company as held by the Registrar. This on the condition that the individual is able to demonstrate a legitimate interest in the prevention and combating of money laundering, its predicate offences or the financing of terrorism.
To request access interested parties must submit a written application, including identification details, relevant information or qualifications/credentials and a declaration of the legal basis supporting such request. The Registrar has the discretion to request any additional documentation deemed necessary and may publish guidelines to clarify the process. The decision of the Registrar on such a request is conveyed in writing to the respective applicant in the that the request is refused. In case of any applicant who is aggrieved by such a decision one may appeal from such a decision within twenty (20) days by filing a sworn application in Court.
All requests are to be submitted via email to: [email protected]
As part of the legislative overhaul, there were also amendments to the statutory forms of the MBR. A new option is added to Section A of Form BO2 so that where a change consists only of a change to the extent and/or nature of the beneficial ownership, the full name and surname only of the respective beneficial owner/s in the first column, followed by a description of the change as applicable is required. A similar amendment has been done to the Annual Confirmation BO Form, the Change in Senior Managing Officials forms and the Change in details of BO/Senior Managing Officials. It is important that companies use these new amended forms with immediate effect as the older version of the forms is no longer valid.
To support users in navigating these changes, the MBR has published detailed User Guidelines outlining procedures, obligations, and best practice
These amendments mark a significant step in Malta’s continued alignment with EU anti-money laundering standards. By enhancing both access to beneficial ownership information and the quality of corporate disclosures, the Malta Business Registry reinforces its role in promoting transparency, corporate accountability, and regulatory compliance. At Zerafa Advocates, we strongly encourage company officers and compliance professionals to familiarise themselves with the updated Regulations. Should you require further clarification or assistance, our team is available to guide you through the changes.
