On 16 December 2025, several provisions of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2025 entered into force in Malta by virtue of Legal Notice 286 of 2025. Alongside these legislative changes, the corresponding updates to statutory forms under the Companies Act were also effected through Legal Notice 287 of 2025.
The Malta Business Registry (“MBR”) recently communicated a notice describing these changes. It underscored important regulatory updates for companies, their officers, and corporate service providers.
What’s Now in Force
The specific amending provisions of the Companies (Amendment) Act that came into effect include several sections. While the full legislation covers a broad scope of corporate law modernisation, a key practical outcome of these changes is the simplified dissolution procedure for eligible companies.
New Simplified Dissolution Procedure
One of the most significant updates introduced by these amendments is the simplified dissolution procedure (new Article 214A of the Act). This new route allows certain companies that have not traded, hold minimal or no assets, and have no outstanding liabilities to apply for dissolution more efficiently; they will also face lower administrative burden compared to traditional winding-up processes.
To use this process, eligible entities must complete and submit prescribed forms through the MBR’s online system — BAROS (Business Automation Registry Online System) — rather than through manual filing.
Updated Forms and Filing Requirements
In parallel with the legislative enactment, the Companies Act (Forms) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations, 2025 (Legal Notice 287 of 2025) came into force. These regulations revise the statutory forms that correspond with the amended provisions of the Companies Act. They ensure that filing requirements align with the updated law.
The MBR encourages companies and their officers to consult the User Guidelines published alongside these Legal Notices. These provide practical assistance on the application and interpretation of the updated procedures and forms.
Practical Impact for Businesses
These changes mark a continued shift toward digital compliance, streamlined administrative procedures and modernised company law in Malta. The simplified dissolution process will be of particular interest to stakeholders looking for a cost-effective exit mechanism for dormant or inactive companies.
Companies and advisors should ensure they are using the latest statutory forms. Newnew applications must be submitted under the updated framework through the BAROS portal.
Any questions on complying with the new provisions may be directed to us through our Contact page.