The updated Micro Invest Guidelines introduce a number of significant changes that will apply to eligible expenditure incurred between 2026 and 2030. The amendments increase the level of support available to businesses while also introducing revised eligibility criteria, compliance requirements, and expenditure thresholds.
Below is a summary of the principal changes.
Capital Expenditure
Eligible capital expenditure must now be supported by invoices of at least €500 excluding VAT (previously €200 including VAT), and only new capital assets qualify under the scheme, meaning second-hand imported vehicles and other used assets are no longer eligible.
Aid Intensity & Maximum Tax Credits
Support under the scheme has been increased, with Malta-based businesses now eligible for tax credits of up to 65% of net eligible expenditure, capped at €65,000 (previously 45% and €50,000). Gozo-based businesses may claim up to 85% of net eligible expenditure, capped at €85,000 (previously 65% and €70,000).
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be registered with Jobsplus (including self-employed individuals where applicable). In addition, Tax Credit Certificates are now valid for five years, up from the previous three-year period.
Wage Increase Eligibility
Wage increases claims qualify only where the increase exceeds €5,000. For wage increases registered in 2026 and 2027, businesses may also benefit from an additional fiscal top-up for employees with more than four years’ service, provided the annual increase is at least 3% (including COLA). The tax credit is capped at 65% of the wage increase up to €780 per employee per year for Malta-based businesses and 85% up to €1,020 per employee per year for Gozo-based businesses. The benefit may be claimed for each of the two years following the increase, with the second year available only if the employee’s wage is maintained or increased further. This measure applies exclusively to wage increases registered in 2026 and 2027.
Vehicles & Vessels
The revised scheme expands eligibility to include M1, M2, M3, N1, N2 and N3 vehicles, O-category trailers, and hearses. Aid intensity has increased to 65% for Malta-based businesses and 85% for Gozo-based businesses (previously 30%), with aid for M1 vehicles capped at €10,000. Passenger transport vehicles must hold the appropriate operating licence, while sea vessels qualify only if covered by a Commercial Vessel Licence issued by Transport Malta in the applicant’s name.
Vehicle Classification Table
| Category | Description | Typical Examples |
| M1 | Vehicles designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers with no more than 8 seats in addition to the driver’s seat | Cars, SUVs, taxis |
| M2 | Vehicles designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers with more than 8 seats in addition to the driver’s seat and a maximum mass not exceeding 5 tonnes | Small buses, minibuses |
| M3 | Vehicles designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers with more than 8 seats in addition to the driver’s seat and a maximum mass exceeding 5 tonnes | Large buses, coaches |
| N1 | Vehicles designed and constructed for the carriage of goods with a maximum mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes | Vans, pickup trucks, small commercial vehicles |
| N2 | Vehicles designed and constructed for the carriage of goods with a maximum mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes but not exceeding 12 tonnes | Medium-sized trucks |
| N3 | Vehicles designed and constructed for the carriage of goods with a maximum mass exceeding 12 tonnes | Heavy goods vehicles, articulated trucks |
| O | Trailers, including semi-trailers | Cargo trailers, towing trailers |
| Hearses | Vehicles specifically adapted and used for funeral services | Funeral hearses |
Furnishing & Refurbishment
Eligible expenditure now includes furniture and furnishings, internal and external doors, windows, balconies, signage, and shop show windows. Refurbishment works, including structural and finishing works, qualify provided they are supported by a Bill of Quantities (BOQ), certified by a warranted Perit, and covered by a valid MEPA permit where applicable.
Digital Solutions
Eligible expenditure includes packaged software, the first 12 months of software licence payments, software development, website development, digital application customisation, and related maintenance and hosting services. Portable digital equipment such as mobile phones, tablets, and laptops is eligible only up to the number of full-time employees registered with Jobsplus. Software development, website development, and digital customisation projects must be supported by a signed agreement before work commences and clearly specify the functionality to be developed.
Applications & Compliance
Applications will be processed through an automated system, requiring all supporting documentation to be submitted with the application, including invoices, licences, permits, certifications (where applicable), and photographic evidence. Incomplete submissions may result in delays or the rejection of the application.
Important Compliance Notice
The Malta Tax and Customs Administration may refuse tax credits awarded under the scheme where an undertaking has outstanding VAT obligations, Income Tax obligations, or Social Security contributions. Applicants should therefore ensure that all fiscal obligations are fully up to date before applying.
Conclusion
The revised Micro Invest Guidelines for 2026–2030 provide substantially increased support for eligible businesses, particularly through higher aid intensities and increased tax credit ceilings. At the same time, applicants should carefully review the updated eligibility criteria, expenditure thresholds, and compliance requirements to ensure that investments are structured and documented in accordance with the new rules.
Businesses considering capital investment, refurbishment projects, vehicle acquisitions, or digital transformation initiatives are encouraged to assess these opportunities early to maximise the benefits available under the scheme.
For more information about the above please contact us at:
(+356) 2155 9999
info@jcordina-andco.com
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article, is provided for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information and guidance issued by Malta Enterprise and other official sources available at the time of writing.
