How to Start your Own Online Casino in Europe

KNOW THE ONLINE CASINO OPERATION

That would mean the casino business encompasses players in every continent and from every culture, serving to make this giant industry a behemoth in the world of iGaming. Reports pertaining to the industry have shown that the revenues that are annually generated by the casino business grow constantly, breaching the one-billion-dollar barrier. This is an assurance that there is high revenue potential, which your idea of the business in the casino business can be actualized with trust and confidence in it gaining traction from players.

Another significant cause for the spread of the online casino market pertains to the proliferation of gaming through mobile devices. Because of smartphones and other tablets, playing casino games is now able to be done out of the house and on the go. A significant percentage of online casino revenues today are coming through mobile devices, which underscores the need for optimization for mobile gameplay.

Another notable trend in online gaming involves the inclusion of cryptocurrencies as one of the modes of payment. The use of cryptocurrencies promises more security for the players, speed, and accessibility to people from any geographical location. In this regard, online crypto casinos have emerged that deal only in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, among other established or emerging cryptocurrencies, instead of fiat money.

Online casinos also succeed because of the compelling player experiences to answer many of their needs. Its ease of navigation, user-friendliness of the interface, and responsive support make the gamblers satisfied and retain them longer. Online casinos have a huge repertoire that runs from classic games to innovation in gaming through slots. This type of variety meets numerous player preferences, helping in keeping their interest for a long time. If your aim is to find information on how to start a slot machine business, then the diversity of games and player interaction with an online casino helps you in your slot machine business.

Players all over the world are constantly and actively seeking digital entertainment and new gaming feelings, which positions the market of online casinos as a very promising field of business development. The market is at a constant stage of development and offers multiple opportunities for those determined enough to bring a new, well-thought online casino experience to life.

Consider the Benefits of Operating an Online Casino

There are a few advantages of running an online casino business, which conceivable make for very lucrative revenues and globalization. They turn online casinos into dynamic and flexible business areas with great opportunities for growth.

Before making any decisions about opening your own online casino, there are several advantages to be considered:

• It is flexible in terms of a business model—you can choose among different business models, such as white-label solutions, partnering with software providers, or developing your own proprietary platform. You have the option to sell it under either your brand or somebody else’s.
• Online casinos can potentially be friendlier to the regulating environment than land-based casinos, depending on the jurisdiction they operate in.
• Online casinos are able to be operated remotely, allowing you to operate from various places and adapt your business model accordingly to different market conditions.
• Operating an online casino often entails fewer overheads than a land-based casino, with no real estate or equipment to purchase or large staffing requirements. Online casinos can offer 24/7 access to players and, therefore, will have the ability to create consistent revenues.
• Online platforms provide detailed data and analytics which allow you to track player behavior, preferences, and trends with the aim of optimizing marketing and improving the player experience.
• Player engagement can be enhanced by continuously integrating technological innovations, such as VR/AR experiences, and gamification elements which amasses more players.

Choose a Way of Launching an Online Casino

As already briefly pointed out, there are a few paths to take when it comes to opening an online casino. Namely, you can either create your own exclusive platform or set up a white-label casino. In which direction you will go depends on your budget, timeline, technical skills, customization requirements, and long-term business goals. While our team of lawyers can help you decide what solution suits your business idea best and guide you through any process of launching an online casino, including in-depth insights provided in our online casino guide, below we compare the development of a proprietary platform and a white-label solution.

Consider the Steps of Launching an Online Casino

Opening and launching an online casino is not as easy as it seems. Everything should be planned in minute detail, considering the regulatory requirements at the same time. Be ready to pass through quite a stringent list of specific legal requirements that differ from one jurisdiction to another. Generally speaking, such stages of launching an online casino include, but are not limited to, building or buying an online gambling platform, incorporation of a business, and obtaining of license.

The next steps would involve the following key features in opening an online casino business:

• Choosing the right jurisdiction to obtain a license, based on legal considerations, regulations, and taxes.
• Choosing a casino software provider or white-label solution – we can consult both approaches.
• A mix of casino games, from slots over table games to live dealers, from authorized and licensed game providers, onto your platform.
• Designing an appealing and responsive website reflective of your brand and ensuring the website is fully optimized for mobile devices with seamless navigation and fast loading times.
• Integration of secure and easy deposit and withdrawal methods with strong security structure, covering SSL encryption and fraud prevention.
• Design the process of player registration per the rules of Know-Your-Customer (KYC), including the age and identity verification of players.
• Responsible gambling policies and features that guarantee safe and controlled gaming behavior.
• Carrying out full testing of the platform in terms of functionality, security, and user experience, including with the help of an independent auditor approved in conformity with the national regulations.
• Casino marketing strategy regarding attracting and retaining players in conformity with regulations enforced by the gambling authority.
• Ensuring that all processes are in place so responsive and knowledgeable customer support can be provided, meeting all the regulatory requirements.
• Acquiring an adequate license to gamble, with a jurisdiction of one’s choice.

Select the Online Casino License Jurisdiction

Regulations in the online casino market vary from one jurisdiction to another. Whereas a few countries have set strict legislation to control virtual gambling, others are yet to come up with full-fledged laws and regulations. Thus, when choosing between various jurisdictions, a company should consider its size and capacity. A few jurisdictions work for startups, while others can only be available for mature businesses.

Whether you are able to meet strict licensing requirements within a well-regulated jurisdiction for online casino operators with solid financial and operational foundations or a gambling startup seeking a flexible environment in which you could test your idea of an online casino and learn how to own a casino, our team of lawyers here at Regulated Europe will be happy to offer a jurisdiction to suit your needs.

Malta is one of the leading jurisdictions for regulating online gambling, and this is mostly because Malta offers a complete licensing process with an attractive tax regime for operators. Online casino regulation and licensure are carried out by the Malta Gaming Authority. The license is quite pricey to acquire, plus it’s rather difficult to obtain, which makes it most suitable for well-established businesses capable of meeting strict requirements.

The Isle of Man is a favorite for many, since it enjoys good stability of legal environments and serious measures for the protection of players. This is the reason it is often chosen by gambling startups and more mature gambling businesses alike, as it has a robust technical infrastructure, reliable telecommunications, and generally a business-friendly environment with competitive tax rates. Online gambling activities are regulated by the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission and provide a trusted licensing process.

Curaçao is a popular licensing jurisdiction for online casinos, considering that their license fees are relatively low compared to others, and the ease with which an application is approved. Licenses from the Curaçao eGaming Licensing Authority are issued for a range of gambling activities. The regulatory framework in Curaçao allows some latitude to online casinos in terms of games provided and procedures, perhaps being more appealing to startups who value versatility and lower barriers to entry.

Recently, Anjouan proved to be a good choice for many gambling startups because of a flexible but at the same time internationally recognized regulative environment combined with a reasonably priced license. ABGB—Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board—is an autonomous national authority in charge of making sure that at least minimal regulative measures are kept by online casinos licensed by or operating from Anjouan. The license from Anjouan is generally supposed to be cheaper than the license from other jurisdictions, while the procedure of licensing is simpler too.

Consider Requirements about Casino Licensing

In the case of setting up and owning an online casino and for running it legally, you will have to fulfill the legal requirements which include the application for a gambling license by one regulatory authority from your chosen jurisdiction. The requirements of attaining a license for an online casino vary greatly between jurisdictions, and we can advise on requirements particular to your chosen jurisdiction. That said, there are a few general requirements that crop up time and again when it comes to some of the most popular licensing jurisdictions among online casinos.

It is also required to carefully look into the general national laws and, to some degree, EU laws regarding company formation, operation, reporting, and consumer protection. The ability to operate within the limits of applicable legislation and regulations is crucial for securing not only the establishment but also the stable and continuous growth of an online casino.

Online Casino License Application

Once you are sure that all the regulatory requirements can be met, and your online casino can operate within the framework of a particular jurisdiction, then is the time to apply for a license. The gambling license is a legal and regulative frame that makes sure the casino follows industry standards, AML/CFT regulations, player protection, responsible gambling, and other applicable legislation. The license mostly points out the jurisdiction where the casino is licensed to operate, and what records are continuously supposed to be kept and reported to the competent authorities.

Obtaining an online casino license involves a comprehensive application process that includes background checks, financial assessments, and an investigation of the casino’s operational plans. The licensing process generally aims to establish proof that the operator can provide a safe and equitable gambling environment for gamers, with methods of preventing fraudulent or criminal activities in the industry. A license issued by a reputable jurisdiction will contribute to gaining player confidence and credibility within the competitive online gambling market segment.

You can apply for various types, depending on your business model. If you are going to build a proprietary online casino platform, then it will need a full license. If you opt for a white-label solution, you will need to apply for a sub-license issued under the license of the white-label solution provider.

While the application process may differ depending on the jurisdiction in which you file your application, the following steps are very common:

• The preparation of all the required personal and company documents
• The step is enchanted by the payment of the applicable licensing fees prescribed by the regulatory authority
• Submission of such application to the regulatory authority of the selected domicile
• Attending a meeting at the regulator’s office for clear explanations about information concerning operations of the business.

The validity period of such an online casino license may differ according to the country’s jurisdiction where it was issued. Other jurisdictions have their own laws and policies concerning the validity of such a gambling license and its renewals. Though some jurisdictions provide indefinite gambling licenses, others require renewal each year. Sub-licenses are generally connected with the duration of a master license.

The team at Regulated United Europe here would be delighted to help you make the right choice regarding the jurisdiction that will best respond to your needs, explain all the relevant legislation, and undertake all the necessary steps in the process. You’ll find the process of launching an online casino easy, smooth, and transparent with the assurance of dedicated legal advisors, tax experts, and financial accountants supporting you. Please feel free to get in touch with us now for a personal consultation to set the stage for continued success.

Best jurisdictions for online casino license in 2024

Gambling license in Costa Rica

Getting a license in Costa Rica is the most economical option for those considering how to start a casino or gambling business. The whole process takes place remotely, without a personal visit to the country, so a license in Costa Rica is the most optimal solution for novice gambling businessmen. Thus, Costa Rica does not have a license for gaming – here for companies that are allowed to legally engage in gambling, issue a data processing license – the license allowing data processing, which gives you the right to legally provide foreign services online.

The following can be referred to as advantages of obtaining a license for gaming activities in Costa Rica:

• lowest license cost compared to other jurisdictions;
• speed at which one gets the license for gaming activities;
• minimum requirements for the authorized capital and structure of the company;
• stable economic situation in the country;
• no taxation;
• partnership with the USA and the EU;

It is worth noting that in this country, the level of legal support for companies in English is also high, and this is due to the fact that this country for a long time provided services to companies whose business was somehow connected with gambling.

In the form of annual fixed fees, which the company pays in return for renewing the license, gambling and tourism are among the most important revenues for this tiny Central American state. Getting a license in Costa Rica requires proof of a physical presence in the country, i.e., renting an office and at least one local employee, in addition to registering a company. In this case, it is forbidden to provide services to local residents; IP addresses should be blocked. Yet, this is just a trifle in comparison with the requirements European regulators put on gambling companies. The fact is that the company’s registration in Costa Rica and getting a license takes pretty much time due to poor work organization of state authorities; the whole process may take anything from 1-2 months up to six months. If you don’t have the chance to wait this long, there is an online casino business opportunity to buy ready companies in Costa Rica completely ready for the gaming business. An account for a Costa Rican gambling company can be opened in any country.

Gambling license in Curacao

Curacao is among the most respected and respectable jurisdictions in the online casino industry. In Curacao, for companies offering gambling games, there exist two kinds of licenses: one called a Master License, which is the main license, and a Sub-license, which is its sub-license. Previously, the Master License was issued by the government itself, but for now their issuance is suspended, and new companies desiring to obtain a gambling license for Curaçao can only get a sub-license from those who have the main license. However, from September 1, 2023, a number of reforms are planned to be implemented in the gaming legislation of Curaçao, directed at greater control of the gaming industry by the state.

The Curacao gambling license allows you to be engaged in absolutely all kinds of gambling business and work with customers from all over the world, except in countries where it is forbidden by law.

As of 2023, the countries whose citizens are forbidden to be provided with services using a gaming license of Curacao, are the following:

Also, lawyers from Regulated United Europe recommend to carefully get acquainted with the legislation of the following countries before opening a casino in order to offer services to their citizens, because in most cases it will be necessary to obtain a local license:

Due to the fact that in Curacao there is strict anti-money laundering legislation, owners of online casinos are obliged to follow anti-money laundering and counter terrorism financing policy. Because of these requirements, the state has got high level of jurisdiction and it is like Malta is the most popular country to launch an international online casino or betting company.

In general, registration of a company in Curacao, obtaining a license from 2 months, annual license renewal will cost – $25,000 state fee.

Gambling license in Malta

Malta is a part of the European Union and a financially stable country; an online casino license obtained there will give it prestige in the eyes of clients and partners. Obtaining a gambling license in Malta requires fairly strict requirements. But on the other hand, it guarantees a high level of trust from potential players.

Besides, registration of the company in Malta and obtaining a license to conduct gambling activities here opens the possibility of obtaining a residence permit. About 10% of all major online gaming sites are registered here, and gambling brings in 11% of the country’s GDP-about $1.2 billion.

There are four classes of Gambling licenses in Malta:

1. for online casinos;
2. for betting offices;
3. betting exchanges, bingo, poker;
4. suppliers of special software for gambling companies.

The authorized capital of a gambling company in Malta depends on the class of the license – from 40 thousand to 240 thousand euros. Authorized capital must be paid in before applying for a gambling license in Malta.

List of countries whose citizens are prohibited to service with a license online casino in Malta:

Also, lawyers from Regulated United Europe recommend to thoroughly familiarize with the legislation of the following countries before starting to provide services for their citizens, as in most cases it will require obtaining of a local license:

Gambling license in Anjouan

The Comoros is one of the least known places to obtain a license for gambling. It is an island nation in the Indian Ocean that offers so much more leeway in many aspects compared to other popular jurisdictions like Curaçao or Malta. It has much lower bureaucracy and regulative requirements not that strict as in the above-mentioned countries. This license for online casinos can be obtained on the island of Ndzwani, also known as Anjouan, which is the second largest island in the Comoros.

Generally speaking, it is possible to obtain a license for gambling activities in the Comoros since 2005, but they have become popular only recently, after Curaçao tightened substantially the requirements for obtaining a license for online casinos. For example, to get a license in Curacao, it is obligatory that your company’s servers are located within the territorial borders of this jurisdiction. In Comoros, there is no such requirement; it offers more flexible online casino business opportunities where the location of the servers can be anywhere in the world.

The process of receiving a gaming license is very fast in the Comoros, if all the requirements are met. Licenses are issued only to local companies, so applications for them are submitted together with the request for company registration.

Also, in the Comoros, one of the benefits for online casinos licensed here is tax exemption and any type of activity related to gambling except for those jurisdictions that ban it by law. Meanwhile, Anjouan does not require a local director or local staff.

Gambling license in Gibraltar

Among all the above-mentioned companies, Gibraltar has imposed the severest requirements on the companies seeking to get gambling licences. Up to 2023 year, just over 40 companies have a gaming licence on Gibraltar among which are such giants of the gambling industry as BetVictor, 32Red, 888 Casino, Casino.com, William Hill, bet365, Betfred, Unibet. The gaming licence in Gibraltar is highly valued and guarantees players’ trust.

Nowadays, Gibraltar is regarded as the best and the largest online casino and gambling centre in Europe. The local government has created such legislation that allows the companies operating in the gambling sphere to conduct business comfortably, paying low taxes, but retain a high reputation of the country and stunning infrastructure to run your own online casino.

This tax is 1% only but not less than 86 thousand and also not over 425 thousand pounds per year. Like Malta, Gibraltar is also included under the EU and for all different types of online casinos or gaming business, there are separate licences issued.

In the end, just the names that were in a position to prove that they can obtain a licence in Gibraltar were those that were in any ways excellent and were already found to be reputable as well as in a decent financial condition.

Online casino licence rental

Licensing your online casino means one of the most important moments when casinos may act within a frame of a law and with complete transparency. But getting your own licence may be a really long and expensive procedure. In this context, online casino licence rental is that kind of alternative approach which allows to start working in less time and with less initial investment. In this article, we will discuss what the rental of an online casino license is and how it can benefit and be relevant to business.

What is a rental of an online casino license?

A licence to operate an online casino may be leased—a so-called White Label solution—whereby the license obtained from a third party is used. In such cases, the company willing to start an online casino leases the right to use the license from the licensee and operates under the legal and regulatory framework of the licensee while the branding and marketing can be in-house.

A rent of an online casino license may become a good solution in the context of a fast entrance into the gaming market. But for minimization of risks and assurance of the long-term success, it’s necessary to choose partners with scrupulous care and clearly understand all legal and business aspects of such cooperation.

Also, lawyers from Regulated United Europe provide legal services for obtaining a crypto license in Europe.