Gambling License 2025
According to the Business Research Company, the gambling market stood at about 449,04 billion USD (approximately 410 billion EUR) in 2022 and further increased to 702,45 billion USD (approximately 641 billion EUR). This can be considered one of the surest indications that, in the coming years too, the gambling industry will continue to grow, along with online gaming. Most definitely, there are ample opportunities to bring into reality gambling business ideas.
Here at Regulated United Europe, we can offer you professional advice through our team of lawyers who have experience in obtaining gambling licenses in the most favourable jurisdictions worldwide and will be able to assist with opening a company and filing for a license in any jurisdiction of your choice. If you have not decided yet on the most suitable jurisdiction for your gambling business, keep on reading as we share the 4 most favorable countries to get a gambling license in 2023.
Ready-made companies with Gambling license for sale
Our team here at Regulated United Europe is going to be in a position to support you in incorporating a company and obtaining a company with a gambling license within one of these favourable jurisdictions. Having dedicated legal advisors, tax experts, and financial accountants appointed to your side, the processes of incorporation and application will turn out easy, frictionless, and transparent. Furthermore, from our experience within the gambling industry, we can offer ready-made solutions for sale: ready-to-use companies in possession of a license to gamble, which can immediately start providing the gambling services on your behalf. For a personal consultation and to pave the way for long-term success, do not hesitate to contact us now.
Licence de jeu à vendre
Regulated United Europe – lawyers assist to obtain or renegotiate the license for gambling and bookmaking to new owners. Our gambling professionals have wide connections in the world of gaming and actively take part in best events related to gaming, like SIGMA and SBC.
The procedure of reissuing the gaming licence for new owners looks the following way:
- Initial consulting of the client regarding acquisition of a gaming license, including requirements towards the licensee, the needed documents, and the re-registration procedure of this license on the new owner’s name;
- Analysing the client’s available documents for re-registration of the gambling license;
- Assisting in filling out the package of documents for gambling license signing/re-signing;
- Submitting the package of documents for the license to the regulator;
- Representing the client’s interests in the licensing and other state bodies;
- Renegotiation of the license to the client’s name.
With the help of our professional evaluation of the ready-made gambling license company for sale, the process of obtaining a gaming license is quite rapid and can be done in less than 2 weeks.
Why you need a gaming license
The gaming license allows you to provide legal online casino services and sports betting to customers from countries where this is not in conflict with the existing legislation. Besides, licensed companies gain better reputation and trust from customers and institutions of payment that open an account for the acceptance of payment. Any online casino needs supporting corporate documents in order for proper paying of taxes, to successfully pass all checks from the local authorities and to conduct its activities transparently, without fines and legal persecutions. An online gambling license is just one of those important documents that should be included in the list of a company’s legal papers.
Why to buy a company with a ready-made gambling license
If one is now in the process of launching some ambitious and promising gaming project, which needs almost immediate launch, the last thing one needs is going through the laborious process of creating and licensing a company, which, mind you, in many cases takes months, if not years. Instead of bothering with the delay of plans to implement your online betting company or online casino, the lawyers from Regulated United Europe are ready to consider for you a faster alternative that will enable you to launch the game project in the shortest time. Our team of professional lawyers in gaming law has developed, here, a smooth process of buying a ready company with a license for gambling activities in various jurisdictions, enabling interested entrepreneurs to start a new project in just a few days.
Before details are provided, let it be made clear that the ready-made gaming company is a firm that is already established, fully registered, and licensed, with no history, which can be bought in the shortest time. Sometimes there is also an opportunity to buy a functioning gambling business and a working site connected with payment methods and a player base. It means that you essentially buy a fully licensed cryptocurrency company by buying the relevant gaming license, and you can launch your project in as little time as possible.
What you need to pay attention to when buying a ready-made gambling license company
Types and classifications of gaming licenses are different, and at the stage of selecting a company with a ready-made license, you must be sure that an existing license corresponds to the details of your project.
The owner of the enterprise operating an online casino must have one or more licenses, depending on the type of services provided. There are possible permits for playing activities that are classified on the following grounds:
- In case of the organization of a lottery, the installation of slot machines or online casinos, you will need a Class 1 license.
- Pools creation along with online bets making needs obtaining a 2nd class license.
- The possibility to play bingo, poker or popular gaming portals— in that case, the owner of the gambling business is obliged to have a 3rd class license.
- If a company is established for the purpose of further sales of the software required for the organization of online casinos, then a Class 4 license is needed.
WHITE LABEL GAMBLING PLATFORM
Although our legal company Regulated United Europe does not provide the solution «white label», with pride it cooperates with the leading developers of solutions for online casino «white label» that offer the best prices and the shortest time to launch an online casino or a betting office. Our experienced legal consultants will be happy to help you go through the process of choosing the most suitable supplier and ensuring conformance with all the legal requirements and rules, so you can launch your online casino in no time.
Quality legal support is a big issue in high-risk businesses like gambling. The experience and readiness to be met by clients on ambitious projects and daring business ideas bring confidence in Regulated United Europe as a partner among the customers in the online gambling industry. Our lawyers provide comprehensive legal support for international licensing in all areas of gambling, as your gaming projects can only be put into operation and give good results with the close collaboration of experienced lawyers.
How much does a ready-made online casino license cost
The answer cannot be generalized, taking into consideration such a dynamic industry as online gambling, the situation may change every day. Each country where the online casino license is sold has its own fees and requirements to the structure of the company and the authorized capital. The cost of ready-made solutions may change from 50,000 euros in case of buying a ready-made solution in Costa Riquet to more than a million euros when buying a licensed company in Malta or buying an active gambling business with a working website and customer base.
Most popular countries for opening online gambling business:
Alderney, Cyprus, UK, Anjouan, Gibraltar, Kahnawake, Curacao, Costa Rica, Isle Of Man, Malta, Philippines.
Gambling Regulation Overview
Our company has prepared for the convenience of our clients a table with a summary of information on fees related to the acquisition of a license in various jurisdictions of the world. This table will help our clients to calculate with accuracy how much time and money is needed for the incorporation of the company and the application for the license. For this, please contact our company, and our specialist will be able to consult you on the regulations of a chosen jurisdiction.
Malta | Curacao | Isle of Man | Kahnawake | Costa Rica | Cyprus | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Period for consideration |
7–12 months | 2–3 months | 3–4 months | 2–3 months | 3–5 months | 2–3 months |
State fee for application |
5,000 € | 5,000 € | 6089.24 $ | 40,000 $ | Various | from 30,000 € |
Required share capital | from 40,000 € | No | Various | Various | No | 500,000 € |
Corporate income tax | 5% | 2% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 13% |
Annual fee for supervision | from 10,000 € | 25 € | 42624.68 $ | 20,000 $ | No | from 2,000 € |
Local staff member | Required | Required | Required | Required | No | |
Physical office | Required | Required | Required | No | No | No |
Accounting audit | Required | Required | Required | Required | No | Required |
Curaçao Gambling License
Curaçao is a constituent island country in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, lying just north of the Venezuelan coast. It has its own civil law system within which gambling licensees are regulated. Due to the relatively low regulatory entry barrier, flexible regulatory environment, and cost-effective solutions, the Curaçao gambling license has been the most popular license in 2023 in the entire world among gambling startups.
Curaçao issues 2 types of licenses: the Master License and the Sub-License. In practice, however, only the Sub-License can be issued to new applicants; it allows its holder to conduct all forms of gambling activities in more than 120 countries, such as land-based casinos, online gambling, and sports betting, including poker, blackjack, and bingo. The license is issued by one of a few holders of the Master License and is valid during the validity of the latter. Online gambling licensees of Curaçao can’t hold transactions with the United States, the Netherlands, France, and Australia.
You can apply for a Sub-License from one of these Master License holders:
- Antillephone N.V. #8048/JAZ
- Curacao Interactive Licensing N.V. (CIL) #5536/JAZ
- Cyberluck Curacao N.V. (Curacao-eGaming) #1668/JAZ
- Gaming Curacao #365/JAZ
Note that the demands for an application and the stipulations of operational processes and internal policies of licensees may also vary with these different Master License holders. You are, therefore, hereby called upon to scrutinize in detail the conditions and reviews of each Master License holder before proceeding to work out an application. Remember that it can get deeper with our team of experienced lawyers.
Why You Should Get a Curaçao Gambling License
There are plenty of reasons as to why the Curaçao Gambling License is helpful. In the first place, the application procedure is pretty simple, and a license can be obtained in the shortest time. Usually, it can be issued within approximately 2-6 weeks, provided that all the necessary documents have been duly filed. Compared to other jurisdictions, this is exclusively efficient and enables gambling entrepreneurs to start creating a profitable business in no time.
Moreover, although the cost of license applications and maintenance does vary between Master License holders, the general trend is such that applying for and maintaining a Curaçao Gambling Sub-License is not expensive at all—perhaps the cheapest that could be available. This concept decreases the entry threshold and enables start-ups in the gambling business to get into business with scarce budget resources. You can, as a licensee in Curaçao, invest more in the development of your business by buying good gaming software and hardware that will prepare you for more promising markets.
You may also be interested to know that a Curaçao Gambling Sub-License is fully available remotely. This encompasses company incorporation in Curaçao, searching for a Master License holder, and drafting all the required documents for the application, including the submission of the application itself. With this kind of approach, you can save your time and money while focusing on the day-to-day needs of your business.
Last but not least, the Curaçao jurisdiction has a highly competitive taxation system, fully aligned with international regulations. Gaming companies licensed in the e-zones do not pay taxes on gross gaming revenues. Furthermore, no VAT applies. Only a 2% rate is levied regarding net gains.
How to Get a Curaçao Gambling License
Applying for the gambling license in Curaçao, one has to open a local company first. One of the most common legal types of business entities is Private Limited Liability Company-B.V., which requires a minimum of one shareholder who can be a resident of any part of the world, one director who should be a resident of Curaçao, and one local contact who will be in charge of receiving business correspondence. The incorporation process is very smooth, and it can take only one day.
Then, for the issuance of a Curaçao Gambling Sub-License, you must follow these legal requirements:
- All involved persons should be at least 18 years old;
- Company directors and shareholders go through a Fit and Proper Test;
- The gaming software to be used is audited and certified;
- At least one physical server of the company is in Curaçao;
- The company should design and implement responsible gaming policies and procedures pursuant to national legislation;
- The company shall design and implement internal AML/CFT processes and procedures pursuant to applicable national legislation;
- The company shall appoint an internal compliance officer, whose role is to ensure compliance with AML/CFT regulations.
The main steps of applying for a Curaçao Gambling Sub-License:
- The applicant prepares all the needed documents, including identification documents of involved persons, a Memorandum of Association, a detailed business plan, and copies of software agreements.
- Shareholders and directors fill out Fit and Proper Tests and undergo applicable background checks.
- An authorized person submits an application with the documents to the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB).
- The applicant transfers the applicable application fee.
- If the applicant is an online gambling business, finalize the domain name, server, and gambling platform.
- The technical compliance team of the Master Licensee starts reviewing the gambling software and hardware provided by the applicant.
- If the submitted information is verified and everything is found in order, a Sub-License is issued.
The Curaçao gambling licence is among the most popular ones in the world, considering its availability, affordability and relative ease of obtaining. Curaçao is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, being a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It attracts gambling operators from all over the world with its favorable terms and conditions. The main points related to the Curaçao gambling licence are listed below.
Legal ground
Curaçao has legalized gambling activities since 1996 when the law allowing online gambling was adopted. Since then, Curaçao became the first and one of the most favourite positions among others in respect to hosting online gambling. The license is issued by the government of Curaçao and provides companies with rights to carry on online gambling business.
Licence types
There is only one Curaçao licence type for every sphere of gambling activity in casinos, poker, sports books, lotteries and bingo. That makes things a lot easier on the operators since they don’t have to obtain various types of licences for any of many different types of games.
Pros of a Curaçao licence
- Economic Benefit: The Curaçao licence is one of the most affordable licences in the world, both for start-up and annual maintenance costs.
- Speedy Procedure: The licensing process does not take much time, thus enabling operators to start their businesses in a short period.
- Low Taxes: Companies operating under the Curaçao licence have low taxes imposed on them, adding to the advantage.
- International recognition: The Curacao licence is recognised in many countries of the world, which means it is possible for an operator to attract customers from all over the world.
Requirements for getting a license
To get a license, one needs to meet a number of conditions including:
- Registration of the company in Curacao
- Reliable software at hand
- Proof of financial stability
- Responsible gaming and player data protection policies
Regulation and control
Although the process of obtaining the license is said to be comparatively easy, there are specific criteria to be fulfilled; likewise, the government of Curaçao regularly checks operations with a view to ensuring that such operations are carried out in a proper and transparent manner.
The Curaçao Gambling Licence is cost-effective, easy to set up, and has low taxes, among other benefits accruing to gambling operators. It will serve equally both for start-ups and experienced operators, hoping to develop an international business. Still, like any other business, one must scrutinize all requirements and regulations closely and provide high standards of integrity and security for your customers.
Malta Gambling License
Malta offers a serious regulatory framework with a rather high barrier to entry and is trusted by mature gambling companies who look for opportunities to attract experienced and large players as this customer segment knows that the Maltese gambling regulatory framework protects their interests. Having a Malta gambling license, this is considered the best way into the whole European market because it allows its holders to provide their activity across the EU territory. Considering the demands for receiving a Malta gambling license are really high, this jurisdiction isn’t suitable for startups with limited resources.
Since Malta was the first EU country to legalize gambling, the gambling infrastructure of this country is mature and of the highest standard. Moreover, based on already acquired experience, the Malta Gaming Authority promptly responds to the changing needs of this industry, which encourages further growth. The authority supervises Maltese gambling businesses pursuant to the Malta Gaming Act of 2018.
Licenses Malta issues for gambling activities are as follows:
- The Gaming Service License: a business-to-consumer license for providing or supplying a gaming service;
- Critical Gaming Supply License: This license categorizes those that supply and manage material elements of a game, or who supply and manage software either in a stand-alone or as a part of the system in order to create, capture, control, or otherwise process any key regulatory record and or supply the management of the control system itself where such software resides.
Licenses of B2C and B2B gambling are divided into the following types:
Type | Description |
---|---|
1 | Games of chance played against the house with the outcome determined by an RNG, including casinos, slots, scratch cards, lotteries, secondary lotteries, and virtual games. |
2 | Games of chance played against the house through a Matchbook, including fixed-odds betting. |
3 | Games played in a peer-to-peer manner: poker, betting exchanges, and bingo. |
4 | Controlled skill games, including fantasy sports betting. |
Why You Should Get a Malta Gambling License
Malta is a member of the EU, and by holding a Maltese license, one gets access to the European market, which still shows its profitability—as in 2022, the gross gaming revenue in Europe reached 108,5 billion EUR. This means that a Maltese license can open the door to opportunities for profit maximization and business growth.
If you have an already mature gambling business and would like to further develop it within the EU, getting a Maltese license is the right step towards this, since Malta is one of the most reputable jurisdictions associated with legitimacy and, respectively, trust. It means that the gambling operator has satisfied serious regulatory requirements and corresponds to high standards of protection and fairness, which subsequently attracts better business partners and players with larger funds.
Malta has impressive technical infrastructure to support online gambling operations and give players reliable and secure services. Also, you’ll be assured that all the regulation issues will be looked into and resolved with speed since MGA offers license holders regulatory support and guidance to help them make sense of applicable laws and regulations.
The Maltese taxation system is quite rewarding for licensees in gambling activity. Generally speaking, Maltese online gambling companies are required to pay 5% Gaming Tax levied on GGR gained from gambling activities by Malta-based players. Generally speaking, companies are also liable to pay 35% Corporate Income Tax, but international trading companies and international holding companies can eventually reduce it down to 5%, which is one of the major advantages of holding a Maltese gambling license.
You will also be happy to know that, within Malta, there is unlimited domains that you could get with no extra charges levied on you. In such regards, licensing of multiple domains in gambling activities gives businesses the ability to segment their offerings across various sites; for example, it would put you in a position to target multiple markets and serve different types of players. That way, you would be able to offer a wider variety of gambling products and services at no additional cost to the authority.
How to Get a Maltese Gambling License
For applying to a Malta license, one first has to set up a Maltese company. For larger enterprises, one of the most usual legal structures of a business in Malta is a Public Limited Company PLC that can be registered within 2 weeks, provided all the required documents are prepared duly in advance. The PLC may raise its capital by offering shares to the general public through an Initial Public Offering IPO.
Minimum share capital requirements differ depending on the license type:
- Gaming Service License
- Type 1 and Type 2 – 100,000 EUR
- Type 3 and Type 4 – 40,000 EUR
- Critical Gaming Supply License – 40,000 EUR
In case you apply for more than one license type, the above share capital requirements will be cumulative. However, the maximum required share capital is 240,000 EUR.
To commence operation legally, with a Maltese license, a gambling company must have all the necessary key positions filled by experienced, competent, and honest individuals. Very strict rules are imposed by the MGA on the applicants in order to ensure that only companies with an impeccable reputation compliant operations and excellent standing are licensed. The assessment of the application in itself will then take 7-12 months, during which time everything about the application is scrutinized and verified. This would involve a systems audit, original bank references review, third-party agreements review, among others.
Main steps of the Maltese gambling license application:
- Completion of the Fit and Proper Test and AML due-diligence procedure for the shareholders and directors of the company;
- The payment of the license application fee-5,000 EUR;
- The submission of the necessary documentation to MGA;
- The conduction of a systems audit by an independent auditor;
- Upon receipt of a positive audit report by MGA, a license is issued.
Strong applicants are accredited with a Maltese license. This license comes with the following annual fees:
- Gaming Service License – 10,000-25,000 EUR
- Critical Gaming Supply License – 3,000-35,000 EUR
Kahnawake Gambling License
Kahnawake is an autonomous First Nations reserve located in Canada, opposite Montreal. First gambling regulations in Kahnawake were enacted in 1996 which is when the Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC) was also established as a regulatory body to oversee and license gambling operations based within Kahnawake. Over the decades, the authority has accumulated a lot of expertise and earned a good reputation.
Thus, Kahnawake is the number one popular destination for gambling startups regarding its smooth and relatively inexpensive licensing process. The Kahnawake licensing is generally much easier and not as burdening as compared to some other jurisdictions. This may save time and resources for the start-ups trying to enter the market as quick as possible. It is very important to mention that the Kahnawake gambling license does not allow its holder to offer his services in the USA.
In Kahnawake, there are the following kinds of license for gambling activity:
- The Interactive Gaming License permits holders to provide internet services to Authorized Client Providers, only one license has been issued up to 1999;
- The Client Provider Authorization that permits holders, known as Authorized Client Providers, to conduct interactive gaming from the co-location facility and other premises in Kahnawake. This is the most frequent gambling license;
- Casino Software Provider Authorization: This authorization will permit the holder to locate and operate interactive gaming equipment at the co-location facility of the Interactive Gaming License holder and to provide casino software to third-party operators;
- Live Dealer Studio Authorization: The said authorization shall entitle holders to a live dealer studio, to conduct management of live-dealer games, and to conduct interactive gaming-related activities from premises in Kahnawake;
- The Inter-Jurisdictional Authorization allows foreign license holders to transfer partial or full equipment and/or workforce to Kahnawake;
- The Key Person Permit gives permission for holders to be employed either with the holder of an Interactive Gaming License or of a Client Provider Authorization;
Why You Should Get a Kahnawake Gambling License
Although it is based in Canada, Kahnawake has the authority to self-regulate its gambling activities independently. This simply means the KGC has complete autonomy in creating its rules and regulations, which might be more relaxed and adaptive to online gamblers’ needs than others. So, while enjoying this form of regulatory flexibility and relatively lower barrier to entry, you also need to know that the KGC is a very reputable and well-established one among licensing authorities within the industry.
Holding this license from the KGC adds a layer of credibility to the operator and ensures players are dealing with a trustworthy platform where integrity and fairness are guaranteed. The players can be from any markets that have a legal gambler demographic, as the KGC license allows operators to reach out to international markets. Its reputation stretches beyond the borders of Canada, and the players worldwide want to play through those casinos licensed by the KGC since it guarantees standards and oversight.
With Kahnawake, you have unlimited domains without any additional charges. Second, multiple domains allow a gambling firm to diversify different brands for each domain across different customer segments; this improves your company’s brand identity and increases brand loyalty across various groups of players that essentially affects the bottom line of your company.
Kahnawake comes with competitive tax rates for the licensed operators. No Corporate Tax of 0% is levied on all gross gaming revenues arising from licensees, and there are no additional gaming taxes. The lower the tax burden, the higher the revenue can be, thus making Kahnawake an attractive destination for a startup or established company.
How to Get a Kahnawake Gambling License
For an online gambling license, Kahnawake doesn’t require the opening of a local company. Licenses can be issued to already existing foreign companies too. In general, a license is issued in several successive stages, where an applicant meets all sorts of regulatory requirements. There are 3 phases in the application process: the application phase itself, a preliminary 12-month permit, and further ongoing monitoring of the license. The first phase, if all the documents are duly prepared in advance, takes 2-3 months after which successful applicants are granted a license for an initial period of 6 months. Overall, the Client Provider Authorization is valid for 5 years.
The main steps of the first phase are as follows:
- Application preparation, on which our team of experienced gambling license consultants can advise you – the length of the preparation period does depend on the business model complexity.
- Payment of the application fees to the KGC.
- Application submission to the KGC.
- The undertaking of detailed due diligence and background checks by the KGC – a process that can take at least several weeks, depending on the complexity of the ownership structure and the backgrounds of the individuals involved;
- A financial review with the objective of verifying the financial stability and soundness of the applicant with the intent of ensuring they are able to fund a gambling business successfully.
- A technical review for the purpose of testing if the gambling platform is in line with industry standards on security, fairness, and player protection.
- A compliance review aimed at ensuring that the policies and procedures an applicant has regarding compliance are commensurate with the regulatory requirements on responsible gambling measures.
Isle of Man Gambling License
The Isle of Man is a self-governing British Crown dependency, located between Great Britain and Ireland. The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) is the regulating body responsible for overseeing all gambling activities conducted within the jurisdiction of the Isle of Man. These include the implementation of the compliance of the Gambling Act, protection of players, and enforcement of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regulations.
The Isle of Man gambling license holder can offer services in many markets all over the world, as its regulative framework is at a quite high level and enjoys international prestige. For instance, the UK embraces a great, prosperous market in terms of online gambling, and the Isle of Man license holders may offer their services to British players. The only thing that should be taken into consideration is the fact that the Isle of Man isn’t a member of the EU; thus, this license isn’t suitable for entering the EU market.
There are 4 types of licenses for gambling in the Isle of Man, namely:
- Full License – the license holders can practice B2C activity and at the same time, provide white-label solutions to other operators;
- Sub-License – applicable for operators that are just entering the market of gambling and plan to conduct B2C activity, since these licenses are attributed to Full License holders that provide software, games, and other facilities or resources.
- The Network Services License allows licensees to take customers registered with casinos licensed in jurisdictions without the need for additional re-registration process.
- The B2B Software Supplier License empowers standard fiat platform providers and blockchain-based software providers to supply software to Isle of Man operators.
Why You Should Get an Isle of Man Gambling License
The Isle of Man has certain well-established and strong infrastructures as far as gambling is concerned. Due to that fact, there have been many gambling businesses coming to find such jurisdiction. Truly, it has been investing hugely in high-speed internet connectivity and state-of-the-art IT facilities. Besides, Isle of Man is hosting advanced data centers with security and dependability to host services related to online gambling. This ensures smooth uninterruptible gaming by licensed operators for players from different countries.
The Isle of Man is also a recognized offshore finance center, boasting a secure, well-regulated banking environment. It hosts an array of financial services providers with gambling industry experience who comprehend the peculiar financial needs and challenges encountered in the gambling industry. The Isle of Man banks have experience dealing with gambling-related transactions and can therefore offer tailored solutions to suit the requirements of the industry. Besides, the banks in the Isle of Man have imposed very high standards of confidentiality to protect their clients’ privacy and security of their financial information.
The Isle of Man’s taxation framework also made it an attractive jurisdiction for gambling businesses. Tax rates for Isle of Man gambling licensees range from 0.1% to 1.5% of the Gross Gaming Yield, GGY, which is, of course, very advantageous compared to other jurisdictions. The Corporate Tax rate is set to 0% and applied to most types of income. All distributed dividends, royalties, and interest paid out to non-Manx residents are exempt from the Withholding Tax.
How to Obtain an Isle of Man Gambling License
To obtain an Isle of Man gambling license, you will need to set up an Isle of Man company limited by shares. You can opt to set up a Public Limited Company (PLC), which will enable you to raise funds by selling its shares through an Initial Public Offering. It provides a significant route for financing expansion and growth plans and can be incorporated in just a few days. The key requirements are 2 local directors, a qualified company secretary, and a registered office in the Isle of Man.
Other requirements for gambling license applicants include the following:
- Evidence of financial capabilities to conduct a gambling business;
- Evidence of internal policies and procedures regarding the risk assessment of and reporting related to money laundering and terrorist financing;
- Evidence of internal procedures and policies for responsible gambling;
- Game servers must be located on the Isle of Man;
- RNGs and gambling systems must be certified by an approved independent software testing house;
The application fee is 5,000 GBP (Approx. 5,800 EUR). During the processing of the application, GSC may call for a meeting with the Designated Official and Operations Manager to discuss the business model for an understanding of the critical success factors in the proposed business model. Considering the preparation and communication of all necessary documentation and information for the license application, a gambling license can be obtained within 3-4 months. Such speed is relatively fast when compared to other jurisdictions that are reputable.
Cheapest online gambling licence
Within the last years, interest in online gambling has grown notably, and a question of obtaining a licence for conducting such a type of business turns out to be of current importance. The main accent in this article will be put on the review of the most cost-efficient licensing option. It is worth mentioning that the price of a license isn’t the only factor determining its attractiveness for business.
First, it has to be underlined that the conditions for obtaining a license and the price of such differ remarkably from one jurisdiction to another. Countries like Malta, Gibraltar, and the UK provide quite prestigious licenses that could give access to broad markets, but their prices and requirements for applicants are notably higher. Others, like Curaçao or Costa Rica, may be more affordable but with fewer guarantees for players and more limited access to markets.
Another factor of great importance is additional cost and requirement. Among the variables to be considered are such aspects as taxation, the need for a physical office in the country where the licence is given, periodic fees, and reporting. Furthermore, some jurisdictions require proof of gaming integrity and regular audits.
It is also worth noting that a licence itself is just the beginning. In order to have a successful business, one will have to consider a lot of aspects, among which are the reputation of a jurisdiction, available qualitative software, appealing conditions for players and many others.
Online gambling licence in Costa Rica
Obtaining an online gambling licence in Costa Rica is one of the most sought-after options among operators of gaming business. The reason for such popularity is pretty simple- a number of advantages which this jurisdiction offers. Below is a short overview of the most significant reasons to obtain a gambling licence in Costa Rica.
Economic benefit
The state of Costa Rica, on the other hand, has some of the lowest start-up and annual fees to acquire and retain an online gambling license. In this respect, it is a darling for startups as well as those on a shoestring budget.
Simplicity of the process
Unlike other jurisdictions, Costa Rica has a simpler and faster way of granting licenses. This means that there is less bureaucracy and, therefore, speedier processing of applications.
Low taxes
Costa Rica is famous for its attractive tax policy concerning the conduct of gambling business. The tax burden here is much lower than in many other countries and allows operators to retain a big part of their profits.
Lack of strict regulation
While this may be a disadvantage for some, many companies view loose regulation as a plus, giving them greater flexibility in managing their business, including opportunities for game diversity and marketing strategies.
International access
Indeed, with the Costa Rica licence, operators are allowed to provide their service to players around the world, making the possible market that much bigger and scalable.
Good reputation and stability
Costa Rica has long been famous for its stability and friendly attitude towards foreign investments. All this forms an excellent business climate and allows attracting a lot of international companies.
Though the Costa Rican license provides a lot of advantages, one should consider possible risks and shortcomings. For instance, the lack of strict regulation may influence the reputation of a company in the eyes of some groups of players. It is also worth remembering that conditions can change and it is important to keep up to date with the latest legislation and market trends. Nevertheless, for many companies, the benefits of obtaining a licence in Costa Rica outweigh the potential drawbacks, making it an attractive choice for starting and growing an online gambling business.
Corporate taxes in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is an attractive jurisdiction for many international companies due to its stable economy, political system and relatively favorable tax policies. One of the most attractive features especially relates to corporate taxes, which are an essential part of companies’ business strategies. Below is a general overview for corporate taxes in Costa Rica.
Criterion | Details |
---|---|
Corporate Tax Accounting | Costa Rican corporate income tax rate depends on the company’s size and income. The country maintains tax rates aligned with those of other countries to attract foreign investment. |
Tax Rates | Corporate income tax rates in Costa Rica range from 10% to 30%, depending on annual income. Rates are subject to change, so companies should consult with a local tax advisor for the latest information. |
Tax Benefits and Incentives | Costa Rica offers tax incentives to attract foreign investment, including free trade zones that provide special, reduced tax rates or full exemptions from corporate taxes for a specified period. |
Income Tax | Costa Rica imposes corporate tax on company profits. Companies must account for all liabilities and exemptions when determining taxable income, as the definition of profit can vary. |
Double Taxation | Some countries have signed double tax treaties with Costa Rica, which can reduce the overall tax liability for multinational companies operating across various countries. |
Tax Filing and Payment | Corporate tax returns are filed and paid annually. It is essential to meet all filing deadlines and ensure accurate documentation to avoid penalties and interest. |
Corporate taxation in Costa Rica follows a flexible regime that is relatively friendly to international companies. It is, however, highly advisable for one to get properly acquainted with all the aspects of tax legislation and use any services of qualified advisors that may be available in pursuit of betterment regarding tax liabilities. Proper interpretation and utilization of tax incentives and benefits can go a long way in greatly improving efficiency and profitability of a business venture in Costa Rica.
The license for online gambling activity should be selected in such a way that each and every aspect related to it is analyzed completely, considering not only the current prospect but also the future risk. The capability of selection of appropriate methodology for its license selection will be the guarantee towards the success and long-term sustainability of an online gambling business.
Our team here at Regulated United Europe will be happy to guide you through the process of incorporating a company and applying for a gambling license in one of these friendly jurisdictions. Having your personal legal advisors, tax experts, and financial accountants by your side, you will find the incorporation and application processes very straightforward, frictionless, and highly transparent. Please contact us today to arrange a bespoke consultation and provide a foundation for long-term success.
One can also find legal services related to the obtaining of a crypto license from lawyers operating in the framework of strong, Regulated United Europe.
“I specialize in helping clients secure gambling licenses and offer ready-made solutions — pre-registered companies with existing licenses. Whether starting fresh or opting for an established entity, I guide clients through the regulatory process, ensuring a swift path to legal compliance in the dynamic gambling industry.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How to choose the most suitable jurisdiction for a gambling license?
Upon choosing the optimal option, it’s essential to evaluate the following factors:
- Regulatory entry barriers;
- Regulatory environment;
- Cost-effectiveness;
- Specific needs of your gambling business.
What are the advantages of obtaining a Curaçao Gambling License?
Advantages of obtaining a Curacao gambling license include:
- A relatively quick and straightforward application process;
- Cost-effectiveness;
- Remote application possibilities;
- A competitive taxation system with low taxes on net profits.
What countries can Curaçao gambling license holders conduct transactions with?
Curaçao gambling licensees are not allowed to carry out transactions with the United States, the Netherlands, France, and Australia.
Conducting transactions with other countries (outside of this list) is allowed.
Can a Curaçao Gambling License be obtained remotely?
Yes, a Curaçao Gambling Sub-License can be obtained entirely remotely.
Remote opportunities apply to all the necessary procedures, including opening a company in Curaçao and submitting the application.
What is the corporate income tax rate for Curaçao gambling licensees?
The corporate income tax rate for Curaçao gambling licensees is generally 5% on net profits.
What are the main requirements for obtaining a Curaçao Gambling Sub-License?
Requirements include:
- All involved persons being at least 18 years of age;
- Copleting Fit and Proper Tests;
- Completing auditing and certification of gaming software;
- Having at least one physical server located in Curaçao.
How does holding a Maltese gambling license benefit operators in the EU market?
Holding a Maltese gambling license provides access to the entire European market. Essentially, it allows operators to offer their services across the European Union, which is a stable and well-regulated market for online gambling.
What are the taxation rates for Maltese gambling licensees?
Maltese gambling companies generally pay a 5% Gaming Tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR) generated from gambling activities by Malta-based players.
Corporate Income Tax is 35%, but it can be reduced to 5% for certain international trading companies and holding companies.
Is there a limit on the number of domains operators can obtain in Malta?
No. In Malta, operators can obtain an unlimited number of domains at no extra charge. That allows license holders to diversify their offerings and target different markets without additional fees.
What types of licenses are available in Kahnawake?
Kahnawake offers various types of gambling licenses. These are the six types of licenses available within this jurisdiction:
- Interactive Gaming License
- Client Provider Authorization
- Casino Software Provider Authorization
- Live Dealer Studio Authorization
- Inter-Jurisdictional Authorization
- Key Person Permit
What is the tax structure for gambling license holders in Kahnawake?
In Kahnawake, gambling licensees benefit from a 0% Corporate Tax on all gross gaming revenues (GGY), which is a major advantage in terms of revenue.
How does the Isle of Man's infrastructure support gambling businesses?
The Isle of Man's infrastructure is well-suited to support gambling businesses in several ways:
- High-speed Internet Connectivity. This is crucial for online gambling platforms, as they require robust internet connections to deliver a smooth gaming experience to their users.
- State-of-the-Art IT Facilities. The reliability of these IT facilities is essential to ensure uninterrupted gaming services.
- Secure Data Centres. They provide a secure environment for hosting gaming servers, and protecting sensitive player data and financial transactions.
- Confidentiality Standards. Isle of Man banks uphold strict confidentiality standards, ensuring the privacy and security of their clients' financial information.
- Supportive Ecosystem. It provides resources, guidance, and a favourable environment for the establishment and growth of gambling enterprises.
What are the taxation advantages of obtaining an Isle of Man gambling license?
Isle of Man gambling licensees face comparatively favorable tax rates, with taxes varying from 0.1% to 1.5% of the gross gaming yield (GGY). Corporate Tax is 0% for most types of income.
What are the main requirements for applying for an Isle of Man gambling license?
Some of the key requirements include:
- Incorporating a company limited by shares in the Isle of Man;
- Meeting financial capability criteria;
- Having policies for risk assessment and responsible gambling;
- Ensuring that game servers are located on the Isle of Man.
What services does Regulated United Europe provide regarding gambling licenses?
Regulated United Europe specializes in obtaining gambling licenses in favourable jurisdictions across the world and provides guidance throughout the process of opening a company and applying for a license in any chosen country.
RUE customer support team
“Hi, if you are looking to start your project, or you still have some concerns, you can definitely reach out to me for comprehensive assistance. Contact me and let’s start your business venture.”
“Hello, I’m Sheyla, ready to help with your business ventures in Europe and beyond. Whether in international markets or exploring opportunities abroad, I offer guidance and support. Feel free to contact me!”
“Hello, my name is Diana and I specialise in assisting clients in many questions. Contact me and I will be able to provide you efficient support in your request.”
“Hello, my name is Polina. I will be happy to provide you with the necessary information to launch your project in the chosen jurisdiction – contact me for more information!”
CONTACT US
At the moment, the main services of our company are legal and compliance solutions for FinTech projects. Our offices are located in Vilnius, Prague, and Warsaw. The legal team can assist with legal analysis, project structuring, and legal regulation.
Registration number: 08620563
Anno: 21.10.2019
Phone: +420 775 524 175
Email: [email protected]
Address: Na Perštýně 342/1, Staré Město, 110 00 Prague
Registration number: 304377400
Anno: 30.08.2016
Phone: +370 6949 5456
Email: [email protected]
Address: Lvovo g. 25 – 702, 7th floor, Vilnius,
09320, Lithuania
Sp. z o.o
Registration number: 38421992700000
Anno: 28.08.2019
Email: [email protected]
Address: Twarda 18, 15th floor, Warsaw, 00-824, Poland
Europe OÜ
Registration number: 14153440
Anno: 16.11.2016
Phone: +372 56 966 260
Email: [email protected]
Address: Laeva 2, Tallinn, 10111, Estonia