Papilio Services Limited
- Founded
- 2012-01-01 in Valletta, Malta
- Headquarters
- Valletta, Malta
- Phone
- +356 212 275 53
Papilio Services Limited is a Malta-headquartered independent corporate services provider founded in 2012 by Thomas Jacobsen, a lawyer specialised in international tax. Authorised by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) under the Company Service Providers Act, the firm offers company formation, tax compliance, residency solutions, and governance, risk and compliance services. With offices in Malta and the Netherlands and affiliated entities in the Czech Republic, Papilio serves a global clientele spanning regulated financial services, family offices, aviation, shipping and maritime, and e-commerce. The company’s team of approximately 27 professionals provides cross-border corporate structuring, trust and foundation formation, business accounting, and personal and corporate tax planning. Its butterfly branding symbolises transformation and adaptability, reflecting a focus on helping clients navigate complex regulatory and commercial environments.
Detailed Review
History and Founding
Papilio Services Limited was established in 2012 in Valletta, Malta, by Thomas Jacobsen, a lawyer specialised in international tax. The company started as a boutique corporate services provider and has grown into a multi-jurisdictional firm with a global client base. Its core service lines cover Private and Public Limited Company Formation, Mergers and Acquisitions, Trust and Foundation Formation, Business Accounting, Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC), Residency Solutions, and Corporate and Personal Tax Planning.
Regulatory and Licensing
Papilio is authorised and regulated by the MFSA, a key credential that underpins its operations in Malta. The company maintains sister offices in the Netherlands and the Czech Republic, enabling it to service clients across European jurisdictions. The senior management team consists of three directors – Thomas Jacobsen (Founder & Director), Louise Vella (Director, heading the AML Compliance Department), and Chris Armstrong (Director, with a financial and advisory background). The directors bring extensive experience from PwC, the Royal Norwegian Air Force, and London-based financial services firms.
Service Portfolio and Specialisations
The company’s service portfolio is designed to support international businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and corporate groups in establishing and managing their presence in Malta and the EU. Notable specialisations include VAT-efficient yacht importation, aircraft registration, and tax credit optimisation. Papilio regularly publishes commentary on regulatory developments, such as the launch of Malta’s Special Limited Partnership Funds (SLPFs) framework in February 2025.
Market Position and Reputation
With a headcount of approximately 27 employees and a founder-led structure, Papilio competes in the corporate services segment alongside other MFSA-authorised providers. The company’s reputation is built on direct client relationships, niche industry expertise, and its ability to handle complex cross-border structuring. It maintains an active presence on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, sharing regulatory updates and thought leadership content.
Key Products
Private Company Formation
Formation of private limited liability companies in Malta and other jurisdictions.
Public Limited Company Formation
Establishment of public limited companies for listing or large-scale operations.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Advisory and execution services for corporate mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring.
Trust and Foundation Formation
Creation of trusts and foundations for asset protection, succession, and philanthropy.
Business Accounting
Comprehensive accounting, bookkeeping, and financial reporting services.
Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) Services
Assistance with regulatory compliance, risk management, and corporate governance frameworks.
Residency Solutions
Programs for individuals seeking residency in Malta, including the Malta Permanent Residence Programme.
Corporate and Personal Tax Planning
Tax optimisation strategies for companies and high-net-worth individuals, including cross-border structuring.
Offices & Headcount
27 employees (approx.)
Key Persons
- Thomas Jacobsen
Founder & Director