Article Hightlights
- Basic License Requirements: Legal business registration, background checks, AML policies, reliable privacy protection, and financial transparency.
- 7-Step Process: Choose jurisdiction, select license type, register business, develop policies, prepare documents, apply, and receive the license.
- Key Jurisdictions: Options include Malta, UK, Curaçao, Philippines, US states (varies by state), and many others with different requirements and tax benefits.
- License Types: B2B (for software providers), B2C (for casino operators), general gambling, sportsbook, and software licenses.
- Time & Benefits: Obtaining a license takes 3-12 months and provides legitimacy, financial perks, market access, and easier business partnerships.
Providing gambling services without certification is illegal in many jurisdictions, so you would certainly prefer obtaining a license instead of paying a fine. We realize that, given all the existing gambling requirements, you might be puzzled about how to get a gambling license before you make a casino available to players across the globe.
This article should help you understand what a gambling license is and how to ensure its effectiveness and reliability. We also provide a short, effective guide on how to obtain a gambling permit and how to maximize your winnings when completed.
Gambling License Requirements
All the licensing authorities have specific requirements that should be met to obtain a certification, so those should be checked individually. Still, there are certain general points that are applicable to every market. Those points are as follows:
Proof of legal business registration in the relevant jurisdiction.
Comprehensive background checks for key personnel.
Reliable privacy and customer protection policies that are compliant with gambling requirements.
An anti-money laundering policy.
No illegal activities.
The company should be ready to disclose information about its financial structure, employees, and partners.
Top employees should have financial experience to ensure business sustainability.
How Hard Is It to Get a Gaming License in 2025?
Again, it varies from authority to authority. Some institutions, like the UKGC, have more requirements and checks than others (e.g., Curaçao). Therefore, the complexity and challenges you might face in the process depend on the jurisdiction you are aiming at.
How to Get a Gambling License
Even though obtaining an online gambling license is a difficult task that requires plenty of resources, time, and effort, this goal is achievable. However, you would certainly need a clear plan and roadmap. To create it, you need to understand the license application and approval process. For this reason, we have prepared this step-by-step guide below.
Choosing the Jurisdiction
Step 1
To have a starting point for getting a gaming license, you need to decide on a desired jurisdiction, as your future action depends on your choice. This is quite a responsible step, so ensure you have done a profound research on available options and have selected the one that is the most suitable for your needs.
Selecting License Type
Step 2
Choose the kind of license you need. It might be a B2B or B2C license. Moreover, it differs depending on whether those are sports events or casino games that you would like to provide to clients. Pay attention to that and select a suitable license type.
Business Registration
Step 3
Make sure to register your business, trademarks, designs etc. This would prevent you from facing fraudsters who try to copy your website for their own benefit. Moreover, usually, you are required to have servers in the country that issue a license. On top of that, some jurisdictions might require you to have your company registered on their territory with a physical office, others might request only a branch. Certain gambling authorities do not have specific requirements in this regard.
Developing Anti-Money Laundering & Risk Policies
Step 4
Ensure you have all the necessary policies developed and documents prepared. You would need several of these, mainly an anti-money laundering policy, privacy policy, terms and conditions, customer protection policy, etc. Develop anti-money laundering and customer protection policies. AML standards can be checked at the FATF.
Collection and Preparation of All the Documents
Step 5
Collect all the documents that might be requested for an online casino license. Do not rush with it, as the lack of all the requested documents might lead to the rejection of your license request. Some of the documents you would need to provide, regardless of the selected jurisdiction, are a Certificate of Incorporation, Business Plan, Certificate of Good Standing, Audited Financial Reports, AML/CFT Policies, Responsible Gambling Policies, etc.
Application for a Gaming License
Step 6
Once all the documents are filled in and collected, you might apply for a gambling license. Ensure that all the necessary information is provided. Consider having all the possible information ready, as it might be anything from personal information of business owners and key employees to the description of current games and mechanics used.
Obtaining a License
Step 7
Once the documents are submitted, you should wait for the regulator to review them and make a decision. If your business meets the requirements, it will receive a license.
Best Jurisdiction & Regions
Currently, there are more than 20 jurisdictions across the world that issue licenses for online gambling. Some of them are known for their demanding requirements. As a result, those more desired by casinos that would like to follow all the rules (e.g., a gambling permit issued by the UKGC is highly valued, as it gives a significant reputation boost). Some licenses are less valued, but oftentimes, it is much easier to receive them. Let’s explore the top jurisdictions by region below.
North America
Some of North America’s most common license issuers are Tobique and Kahnawake authorities. Such licenses are not that difficult to obtain but are considered highly reputable among players.
Tobique iGaming License
If you are looking for a license with few limitations and plenty of possibilities in Canada, you might consider applying for Tobique iGaming License. It offers low license fees (starting from $36,000) and no local taxes. Furthermore, it covers all the popular gambling genres, including live dealer games.
Kahnawake Gaming Commission
A license issued by the Kahnawake Gambling Commission is another online casino permit that is often obtained by casinos that prioritize players from Canada. It can be obtained quickly, and the application fee is not that high ($40,000). Furthermore, it clearly focuses on customer protection and reviews all complaints to ensure fair treatment of each player.
South America (Curaçao)
Curaçao Gambling License
Curaçao Gambling License is the one to obtain if your company plans to operate internationally and to have little limitations. It was one of the first jurisdictions to allow cryptocurrencies, and the rules are certainly not that strict either for players or for the gambling destination. Furthermore, a Curaçao eGaming license can be a perfect choice for your business if the implementation of KYC verification is not your priority.
Europe
The European region has over 15 regulated markets, so assess your targeted country before applying for a license. Let’s say it is Sweden. Then, you would need to obtain a Swedish license; otherwise, your casino will not be able to operate in the country. Some countries have less strict rules, and getting a gambling license issued by one reliable authority is enough to provide services in their market.
Malta Gaming Authority
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is a perfect choice if you plan to accept players from different countries on the one hand and strive for a big reputation post on the other. Having a long history and proven record, the Maltese license is one of those with stable rules, significant benefits in terms of banking and taxes, and a relatively simple application process.
UK Gambling Commission License
Consider obtaining a gambling or sports betting license from the UKGC if Great Britain is one of your target markets. Yes, this license requires going the extra mile, but players would barely question your reputation once your casino is certified. A minor drawback is that you will face certain limitations in terms of bonuses, but the game lobby versatility may compensate for it.
HM Government of Gibraltar License
Having a license for online gambling in Gibraltar means your services were explored thoroughly. It is challenging on the one hand but beneficial on the other, as players will have more trust in your casino. The possibility to open a legal merchant account and pay low taxes are certainly among its benefits.
Danish Gambling Authority
Obtaining a gambling license in Denmark is not a matter of benefits but of targeting the local audience. If you are willing to see Danish players at your casino, be ready to apply for a permit from the Danish Gaming Authority. Superb security and customer protection are just some of the essential points.
Hellenic Gaming Commission
A Hellenic gambling license might be useful if you plan to target players from the Mediterranean region, mainly from Greece. It is one of the most secure and reputable jurisdictions with good customer protection. A license can be obtained relatively fast, and it covers all the popular gambling and betting categories.
Swedish Gambling Authority
If you decide to apply for a gambling license in Sweden, you should be ready to meet challenging requirements. However, after the process is completed successfully, you get access to one of the biggest gambling markets in Europe. Transparency and security, along with fair play, are what you might expect from the Swedish Gambling Authority.
L’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ)
A French license is a good option if you target French players, as they value security and protection of their rights. That is exactly what L’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) can provide. The cost of this online gambling license is not that high ($20,000), and the authority helps operators adapt to the requirements and ensure compliance with modern requirements.
Romanian National Gambling Office
If you are searching for an emerging market with quite a big audience, you may take a look at Romania and get a gambling license there. It is relatively cheap and easy to apply for it. Moreover, there are three different types of gambling licenses (B2B, B2C, and B2B + B2C), so you can select the one most suitable for your company’s services.
Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ)
A license from the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) is necessary to provide gambling activities in Spain. The authority has a clear list of legal, technical, and financial requirements. The list is not short, but all the points are essential for fair gambling. If customer protection is one of your priorities, you will not find an application for a Spanish gambling license challenging.
Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission
If you are searching for a license that would be recognized in many European markets, explore the Isle of Man permit. It is a good option for companies that strive to find a low-tax authority with a good reputation and affordable requirements. Obtaining a gambling license there would not take much time.
Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC)
An Alderney gambling license allows casino owners to accept players worldwide. The permit is issued in a jurisdiction with competitive taxes and requires affordable expenditures to obtain it (around $17,500). AGCC is a top-tier authority recognized worldwide. Being licensed in Alderney also means an excellent boost to the reputation.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a famous offshore zone and home to many gambling companies that decide not to obtain gambling licenses in each market. A permit issued by the Cyprus betting authority proves the credibility of the operator on the one hand and, on the other hand, does not limit it in the list of targeted markets. Consider this option if you plan to apply for an offshore gambling license and accept international traffic.
National Betting Authority
The National Betting Authority is an official body in Cyprus that reviews applications and issues licenses to betting and gambling companies. There are certain benefits to take advantage of if you decide to receive a gambling permit in Cyprus. Access to EU markets, efficiency (licenses are issued within 2-3 months), and the possibility of not paying VAT for players’ winnings. The license issued by this body allows you to provide gambling services to any third nation.
Fast Offshore
You may also consider using Fast Offshore’s services to get an offshore license. This company and other organizations alike would follow you through the entire process of applying for an offshore license. They work not only in Cyprus but in other markets known for offering offshore permits as well.
Asia
If you are planning to provide gambling services in Asia, you should look at one of the following online casino license issuers. Again, your choice should depend on the markets you expect to engage with.
Philippines PAGCOR
Companies that apply for their first gambling license may consider sending a request to PAGCOR. It has simple requirements, so many businesses do not face many challenges in obtaining a Philippines gambling license. Furthermore, it is suitable for companies with quite small capital, and fees are not that high. Tax benefits can be clarified through ASEAN.
First Cagayan
It is another licensing entity targeted at the Philippines. You might like to choose it over other authorities because of extremely low taxes (around 5%) and a decent level of security. Moreover, applications for a gaming license are reviewed efficiently, so obtaining this permit will not take much time.
Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau
Macau is a well-known gambling market with impressive land-based gambling venues, so getting a Macau gambling license is already a sign of reputation. The authority is quite demanding in terms of legal and technical documentation. It is not cheap to get this permit (you should pay around $90 for a square meter of gambling area), but security and transparency are guaranteed.
Africa
Africa is a promising emerging market, so many operators would like to start providing gambling services there as soon as possible. The best way is to apply for one of the online gambling licenses mentioned below, which come with undeniable advantages.
Anjouan Gaming License
If you plan to obtain a gambling license extremely quickly, consider the Anjouan jurisdiction. It issues permits within a month, allowing casinos to start operating quickly. Moreover, all the popular gambling options are covered with one license, with zero taxes on revenue. Finally, Anjouan allows gambling platforms to accept players worldwide.
Oceania
Oceania is a well-established market with thousands of casinos, but to be represented in the region, a platform should have an online gambling license. The two gambling regulators mentioned below are some of the best choices for both new and existing businesses.
Northern Territory Racing Commission
The Northern Territory Racing Commission is a good choice if a sports betting license is your main priority. Still, it also covers casino entertainment, so you can obtain a gambling license for both categories. Requirements are pretty strict and challenging to meet, but security and fairness are guaranteed, and license renewal is easy.
Tasmania Gaming Commission
If you would not like to pay extra for all the types of gambling to be licensed at your venue, you might like to choose the Tasmania Gaming Commission. It provides licensing for both broad and narrow categories like horse racing, betting exchange, or major lottery. Moreover, its requirements are slightly milder than those of other authorities in the Oceania region.
United States Licenses
Licensing in the US is worth a separate section, as you cannot expect to conduct legal gambling activities if your operator is not certified in the country. Furthermore, it should be licensed by the responsible authority in each state in which you plan to deliver your services. Currently, you can apply for a license in the states listed below.
Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement
For Delaware, it is possible to apply for a license if your business delivers lottery, poker, or casino entertainment. There are quite high requirements, and only a few operators can boast of holding a license in this state. At the same time, you can expect excellent security and transparency.
Michigan Gaming Control Board
Michigan has been offering companies the opportunity to apply for a license since 2019. Currently, less than 20 online casinos are licensed in the region, so the competition is not that high. Be prepared for a long list of requirements, some of which are quite challenging to meet.
Nevada Gaming Commission
Online gambling is not that popular in Nevada, so obtaining a license would not be difficult. The fees might seem high for small casinos (around $250,000 annually), but if your business already boasts a big network, it might be a good idea to obtain a gambling license from the Nevada Gaming Commission.
New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
New Jersey is one of the most popular jurisdictions for gambling license applicants. The permits are approved relatively fast and they are less costly than in other states. Furthermore, the renewal process is much easier than first-time application.
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
When applying for a permit from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, you might expect an efficient response (often, the application review is completed within 3 months). There are not that many operators licensed in the state due to quite complex requirements (e.g., if your business has broken any gambling laws in any jurisdiction, you will not be able to get a gambling license there). Still, once the documents are approved, the license renewal will not be that challenging.
West Virginia Lottery
Most operators licensed by the West Virginia Lottery are land-based, so it might not be the best option for online gambling companies. Still, transparency and fairness are among its priorities. If those features, along with a manageable requirements list, are among the necessary features for your land-based gambling venue, pay closer attention to this authority.
License Types
There are several types of online gambling licenses, and those types cover separate categories of gambling. Thus, you do not need to pay extra for all available licenses. Just pick those that drive the most value to your business and cover the categories of entertainment you provide. Those license types are as follows:
- Business-to-Business (B2B): This model is mostly suitable for software providers, as it allows studios to supply their portfolios to online casinos.
- Business-to-Customer (B2C): Apply for this gambling license if you are a casino owner and want to supply casino games to players.
- Gambling License: A general type that covers all the popular real-money entertainment types, including casinos and sportsbooks.
- Sportsbook License: this type is suitable for operators that provide only sports betting events.
- Software License: This type of permit is necessary for software providers to deliver casino entertainment in specific markets.
List of All Required Documents
In order to get a gambling license, you need to send certain documents along with your application. The exact list depends on the selected jurisdiction. Still, there are documents that are requested by all the authorities, namely:
- Certificate of Incorporation – to prove the business is registered.
- Articles of Association/Bylaws – to provide details on company structure and operations.
- Business Plan – to confirm that you have a comprehensive business model, target market, and operational strategies.
- Shareholder Register – to show the list of all shareholders and their respective ownership percentages.
- Personal Identification Documents – to verify identities of key stakeholders and staff.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – to assess industry experience and qualifications of key staff.
- Police Clearance Certificates – to show that key personnel have a clean criminal record.
- Proof of Address – to support police clearance certificates.
- Bank Statements – to demonstrate financial stability.
- Audited Financial Reports – to verify that your business is financially capable of maintaining a casino.
- AML/CFT Policies – to ensure Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT) policies are available.
- KYC Procedures – to provide protocols to identify and verify customers.
Terms and Conditions/Privacy Policy – to outline the rules for customers using the gambling platform. - Responsible Gambling Policies – to provide measures to promote safe gambling practices.
- Software Certificates – to show that independent testing labs verified fairness (e.g., eCOGRA, iTech Labs).
- System Architecture Overview – to provide details on the IT infrastructure and security measures.
- RNG Certification – to show how the Random Number Generator (RNG) provides results for games.
- Gaming License Application Form – to initiate the license application process.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Gambling License?
Again, the answer to this question is “depends on the selected authority and the way it works.” Still, there are some average numbers. Normally, this process takes no less than 3 months. Some might delay the process for up to one year. On average, a casino needs around 6 months to get certified by a selected gambling commission.
Advantages of Having a License for Online Gambling
As you might have understood already, applying for a license might be a time-consuming and challenging task. However, there are plenty of benefits of such a move, namely:
- Legitimacy: As soon as your casino receives a license, players and regulators see it as trustworthy and legitimate. As a result, gamblers are not hesitant about the reliability of your brand and are more willing to create an account. Moreover, regulators will not close your business if you do not have a license. Your platform will comply with international standards such as ISO/IEC 27001.
- Financial Perks: Some jurisdictions make it financially beneficial to get a gambling license. You can open a bank account or have low to zero taxes for your company.
- Access to Markets: Certain gambling markets clearly require a local license to operate and allow players to create accounts.
- Easier Collaboration: Software providers are willing to cooperate and integrate their portfolios into casinos with licensed services.
Having a license for online gambling is beneficial not only because it can help casino owners promote their operators but also because it allows them to avoid problematic and controversial situations. For example, having a license means your business will not be fined for illegal activity. This alone is a good argument to apply for a permit in different markets.
This is also an absolutely necessary move if you plan to have a network of two or more casinos. A gambling license prevents reputational loss and helps to build trust in newer platforms faster and more easily. Therefore, applying for a gambling license is an undoubted investment in the future if you have been in the gambling business for quite a long time.
Who Needs a Gambling License?
Any business that is somehow related to delivering sports betting or online casino activities would need to apply for a corresponding license. The thing that might differ from case to case is the type of license. Another sphere that requires a license is the lottery. Thus, as soon as your company plans to provide any of the abovementioned services, you should prioritize a license and not launch a website if you have not received a permit yet. A gambling license is essential for building credibility and a good reputation among players. If these are the goals for your business, you would like to apply for a gambling permit as soon as possible.
How Legal Pilot Can Help With Obtaining a Gambling License
A gambling license is vital, and obtaining it as soon as possible is best. Given the complexity of the process and its importance, it might be a good idea to hire legal experts to help you with it. This is a quick solution to a dilemma about how to get a gambling license easily and fast.
Legal Pilot is a team that offers turnkey licensing solutions for companies in the gambling industry. Our legal experts will advise you through the entire process and ensure all your documentation, financial, and technical sides of the business are adjusted to meet the compliance requirements of authorities in 10+ jurisdictions. Legal Pilot provides assistance on all the stages of getting a gambling license. The company helps to select a suitable jurisdiction, establish a company, prepare all the requested documents, send an application, etc. We will gladly help you launch a successful business in the sphere of gambling anywhere in the world.
Post-License Requirements
Obtaining a gambling license is a good milestone on its own. However, there are plenty of post-license nuances and requirements that should be dealt with in the long run. Keeping all the policies up to date with changing compliance requirements, tax payments, advertising compliance, and license renewal are just some of the aspects that a business owner will face at a certain stage. Given the complexity and continuity of the license application and what comes after it is received, hiring dedicated experts is a beneficial solution that turns out to be a cost-effective and time-efficient option.
FAQ
Gambling license is an official permit given by a responsible gambling authority for a company to conduct a gambling-related business on a market.
Yes, one license can be used to operate in several countries if they allow that. However, one license does not cover all the available gambling markets.
You need to correct the mistakes indicated in the rejection notice, provide additional documents, and resend an application.
Mostly yes. Sports betting licenses have similar licensing requirements as those for casino entertainment, so they require the same legal preparations.
Cryptocurrency gambling operators have milder licensing requirements in some cases. However, the exact list of requirements still depends on jurisdiction. In addition, crypto gambling is prohibited in some states.
It depends on the authority where you plan to obtain a license, so there is no general baseline for all markets.
The exact timing depends on the market. However, most gambling licenses are valid for 1-5 years. After that, a new application should be sent to renew a gambling license.
