The FASTER Directive aims to enhance the efficiency and security of withholding tax procedures across the EU, benefiting investors, financial intermediaries, and national tax administrations. EU Member States must transpose the directive into national law by 31 December 2028, with the rules taking effect for fiscal years starting on or after 1 January 2030. While this may seem distant, the preparatory work required makes it a more immediate concern than it appears.
The IFSP is organising a comprehensive two-hour online session, providing an in-depth analysis of the FASTER Directive, covering its most critical aspects:
✅ The Common EU Digital Tax Residence Certificate
- What is its purpose, and how will it streamline tax relief procedures?
✅ Impact on Malta’s Jurisdiction
- Will Malta qualify for an automatic exemption or opt-out from Chapter III obligations?
- What additional compliance and reporting requirements might arise and in particular will compliance obligations persist even if Malta opts out of Chapter III?
✅ Applicability of Fast-Track Procedures in Malta
- Will Malta implement the ‘relief at source’ and ‘quick refund’ mechanisms?
- How will these procedures affect tax administration and financial intermediaries?
✅Implications for Financial Institutions and Sector Operators
- How will the directive reshape operational and compliance frameworks?
- What adjustments will financial institutions need to make?
The webinar will be held on Monday 30th June 2025 at 10:00am and will feature a distinguished panel that includes amongst others, Mr Ross McGill – a member of the EU Commission’s FASTER Working Group will break down the Directive’s key elements, with a focus on its implications for Malta’s jurisdiction, financial institutions, and intermediaries.
Meet the Panel:
✅ Ross McGill – Chairman Emeritus
TConsult; Member – EU FASTER Larger Working Group; Chairman
AQAI
✅ Chris Curmi – IFSP Council member &
Chair, Tax & EU Affairs Subcommittee
✅ Joseph Spiteri – Head of Tax Unit, Bank
of Valletta plc
✅ Lydon Farrugia Vella – Director,
MTCA
Who Should Attend?
This session is tailored for professionals within financial institutions, financial intermediaries, stockbrokers, tax advisors and anyone with a vested interest in cross-border withholding tax procedures.
Agenda
- Welcome & Introduction to speakers – Joseph Spiteri
- Introduction to FASTER Directive and background thereto – Joseph Spiteri
- Chapter 1 – Scope of FASTER Directive; Chapter 2 – eTRC – Chris Curmi
- Chapter 3 – Practical implications for Malta and Malta financial intermediaries – Ross McGill
- MTCA perspective on preparation for FASTER Directive – Lydon Farrugia Vella
- Takeaways from a Malta perspective – Joseph Spiteri/Chris Curmi
- Q&A