The iGaming Industry Is Quietly Relocating—From Malta to Cyprus
In 2025, there’s a growing shift in the iGaming and gaming tech industry: companies are moving their operations from Malta to Cyprus.
Malta has been the go-to jurisdiction for over a decade—but that’s changing. Operators are facing increasing tax pressure, a limited talent pool, and rising operational costs. Meanwhile, Cyprus is offering a fresh alternative: better tax benefits, a growing tech ecosystem, and more flexible talent and lifestyle incentives.
Whether you're running a full iGaming platform, building backend tools, or running a game studio—Cyprus offers real advantages.
Why Cyprus? The Strategic Upside
Here’s why more companies are choosing Cyprus as their new base:
1. IP Tax Regime with Effective Rates as Low as 2.5%
Cyprus offers a full Intellectual Property (IP) box regime that can bring effective corporate tax down to 2.5% on qualifying IP income. If you’re a tech platform, studio, or product-led business, this structure alone can significantly improve profitability.
2. Up to 50% Income Tax Relief for Skilled Employees
Cyprus wants skilled workers to relocate. That’s why they offer a 50% personal income tax discount for employees earning over €55,000—for up to 17 years. For lower earners, there are non-domicile exemptions that allow for tax-free dividend income.
3. Deeper Tech Talent Pool and Lower Staff Costs
Unlike Malta, where the tech and gaming labor market is increasingly saturated, Cyprus benefits from a broader, EU-backed talent pipeline. Universities, fintech programs, and multinational employers feed the ecosystem, with English-speaking professionals across engineering, compliance, finance, and operations.
Cyprus vs Malta: What the Numbers Say
| Feature | Cyprus | Malta |
| IP Tax Regime | Effective corporate tax rate down to 2.5% | No IP box regime available |
| Corporate Tax | 12.5% base (optimized via IP structure) | 35% base, can be reduced to ~5–10% with tax refund system |
| Personal Income Tax (for Staff) | 50% discount for €55k+ salaries (17 years) | No similar long-term discount scheme |
| Dividend Tax for Non-Dom | 0% on dividends (no withholding) | 15% withholding tax may apply, subject to conditions |
| Talent Availability | Broader EU candidate pool, strong tech pipeline | Shrinking pool, limited senior tech roles |
| Company Relocation Process | Fast, with redomiciliation options or full incorporation | More complex, especially for partial moves |
| Quality of life & Cost | Mediterranean lifestyle, moderate living costs | High demand areas (e.g. Sliema, Gzira) inflate expenses |
Who’s Making the Move?
This trend isn’t just about tax—it’s about long-term strategy. Companies making the move typically include:
- iGaming platforms shifting licensing, operations, or tech infrastructure
- Game and content studios centralizing their IP and delivery teams
- B2B SaaS providers in payments, compliance, and analytics
- Crypto-backed games and hybrid platforms looking for EU-friendly jurisdiction
- Startups entering regulated markets without overextending on compliance or tax
In many cases, companies begin with a partial move—relocating their IP, key staff, or product division—before gradually migrating their HQ or entire structure.
Final Thoughts: Cyprus Is More Than a Backup—It’s a Strategic Upgrade
If your company started in Malta during the early iGaming boom, that made sense. But in 2025, the landscape has changed. Between tax pressure, competition for talent, and limited IP support, Malta is no longer the one-size-fits-all solution.
Cyprus offers real alternatives. With smarter tax incentives, easier recruitment, and a flexible approach to corporate structure, relocating can help you grow faster, operate leaner, and attract better talent.
Considering the move from Malta to Cyprus?
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