The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Business in St. Julian’s
Setting Up a Business in St. Julian’s (San Ġiljan), the beating heart of Malta’s commercial landscape. Once a quiet fishing village, it has transformed into a sophisticated Mediterranean hub where glass-fronted business towers stand alongside historic palazzos. For entrepreneurs and international firms, setting up a business here isn’t just a strategic move—it’s a statement of intent.
As experts in the local market at officespace.rent, we’ve seen firsthand how the right location in St. Julian’s can accelerate a company’s growth. This guide explores everything you need to know about establishing your presence in Malta’s most prestigious business district.
1. Why Offices in St. Julian’s? The Strategic Advantage
Before diving into the paperwork, it’s essential to understand why St. Julian’s remains the top choice for sectors like iGaming, Fintech, and Professional Services.
Prestige and Branding: A St. Julian’s address carries weight. Being in the same vicinity as global giants and luxury developments like Mercury Towers or the Portomaso Business Tower immediately elevates your brand’s credibility.
Talent Attraction: Modern employees want more than just a desk; they want a lifestyle. With its proximity to the sea, world-class gyms, and an endless array of bistros in Spinola Bay, St. Julian’s is a magnet for the highly skilled expatriate workforce.
Networking Ecosystem: The density of businesses in this area means that your next partner, client, or investor is likely just a coffee away. The networking opportunities here are unparalleled compared to quieter inland towns.
2. Choosing Your Legal Structure
To operate in Malta, you must first register your entity with the Malta Business Registry (MBR). The most common structures include:
- Private Limited Liability Company (Ltd): The most popular choice. It requires a minimum share capital (with at least 20% paid up) and offers protection for personal assets.
- Branch of an Overseas Company: Ideal for established international firms looking to test the Maltese market without forming a new legal entity.
- Self-Employed/Sole Trader: Suitable for freelancers or consultants, though it offers less liability protection than an Ltd.
Pro Tip: While the process is streamlined, ensure you have a designated Company Secretary and at least one Director (for private companies) to meet statutory requirements.
3. Navigating the Registration Process
Setting up a business in St Julians in 2026 is faster than ever. However you need to prepare for the following-
Step-by-Step Checklist:
- Name Reservation: Reserve your company name with the MBR (valid for three months).
- Drafting the Memorandum & Articles of Association: This document outlines your business activities, shareholding, and governance.
- Deposit Share Capital: Open a temporary “In Formation” account with a bank or Electronic Money Institution (EMI) to deposit your initial capital.
- Registration with MBR: Submit the signed documents and the deposit slip.
- Tax & VAT Registration: Once incorporated, you’ll receive a Tax Identification Number (TIN). If your turnover exceeds specific thresholds, you must also apply for a VAT number.
4. Finding the Perfect Office Space
In St. Julian’s, the office market is competitive and moves quickly. In 2026, rental prices for Grade A spaces generally range between €250 and €510 per sqm per annum, depending on the view and amenities. So, if you’re thinking of setting up a business in St. Julian’s then its best to check that this fits your companies budget. Check out all the currently available offices in St Julians.
Types of Office Space in St. Julian’s:
- Traditional Long-Let Offices: Best for established teams. These are typically “shell and core” or “finished,” allowing you to customize the layout.
- Serviced Offices & Co-working: Ideal for startups or companies needing immediate “plug-and-play” setups. These often include utilities, internet, and reception services in a single monthly fee.
- SDA (Special Designated Area) Offices: High-end developments like Portomaso offer luxury perks like concierge services, 24/7 security, and underground parking.
Key Considerations for Your Search:
- Parking: This is the biggest challenge in St. Julian’s. Prioritize offices that offer allocated spaces or are near public parking hubs.
- Energy Efficiency: With rising utility costs, look for buildings with modern HVAC systems and LEED or EPC certifications.
- Hybrid Layouts: In the post-pandemic era, most firms in St. Julian’s opt for 10–15 sqm per person to allow for collaborative zones and private booths. This is becoming more common for companies who are setting up a business in St. Julian’s.
5. Incentives and the Tax Landscape
Malta is famous for its Full Imputation System. While the corporate tax rate is 35%, the effective tax rate for shareholders can often be reduced to 5% through a legal refund system upon the distribution of dividends. Additionally, Malta Enterprise offers various grants and tax credits for startups, particularly those involved in R&D, digitalization, or eco-friendly initiatives.
6. Lifestyle and Amenities
One of the reasons that Setting Up a Business in St. Julian’s is so successful is the “Work-Play” balance.
Lunch & Dining: From quick salads at Pjazza Portomaso to high-stakes business lunches at Michelin-starred restaurants, the culinary scene is unmatched.
Commuting: The area is well-connected by bus routes and ferry links to Sliema and Valletta. Many professionals also use the scenic promenade for their morning commute.
Accommodation: For visiting clients or relocated staff, the area boasts the highest concentration of 5-star hotels in Malta, including the Hilton, InterContinental, and Westin Dragonara.
Conclusion: Making the Move
Setting up a Business in St. Julian’s is more than just finding a desk; it’s about positioning your business at the center of Malta’s economic pulse. While the demand for prime real estate is high, the rewards in terms of networking, talent, and prestige make it a worthy investment.
At officespace.rent, we specialize in helping businesses navigate this vibrant market. Whether you need a 50 sqm boutique office in Spinola or a full-floor corporate headquarters in a business tower, we have the local expertise to find your perfect match
