Given the many options available, choosing a gaming licence can be challenging for new and existing operators. It’s understandable. Holding the correct licence, after all, is integral to sustained success in this highly competitive industry.
This article presents an overview of the licensing landscape to help iGaming professionals find ones that best align with business goals and strategy.
Global Regulatory Authorities
Here is an extensive list of worldwide regulatory authorities:
Alderney – Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC)
Anjouan Island – Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board (ABGB)
Antigua and Barbuda – Financial Services Regulatory Commission
Argentina – Lottery and Casino Institute of Argentina
Australia – Australian Communications and Media Authority
Austria – Directorate General for Gaming and Law Enforcement
Belarus – Ministry of Taxes and Levies
Belgium – Belgian Gaming Commission
Bhutan – Department of Trade and Economic Affairs in Bhutan
Brazil – Ministry of Economy of Brazil
Brunei – Brunei Economic Development Board
Bulgaria – National Revenue Agency of Bulgaria
Cambodia – Ministry of Economy and Finance of Cambodia
Canada – Controlled by Independent states
Chile – Superintendence of Casinos and Gambling
Colombia – Colombia Coljuegos
Costa Rica – Ministry of Economy, Industry, Commerce of Costa Rica
Croatia – Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Croatia
Curacao – Curaçao Gaming Control Board
Cyprus – National Betting Authority of Cyprus (NBA)
Czech Republic – Ministry of Finance of Czech Republic
Denmark – Danish Gambling Authority
Ecuador – National Service of Gambling Control and Regulation
Estonia – Estonian Tax and Customs Board
Finland – Finland National Police Board
France – The National Gambling Authority of France (ANJ)
Georgia – Georgia Revenue Service of the Ministry of Finance
Germany – Joint Gambling Authority
Gibraltar – Gibraltar Gambling Commission (GGC)
Greece – Hellenic Gambling Commission
Hungary – Supervisory Authority for Regulatory Affairs
Ireland – Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland
Isle of Man – Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC)
Italy – Italian Gambling Authority
Japan – Casino Regulatory Commission
Jersey – Jersey Gambling Commission
Kahnawake Autonomous Territory – Kahnawake Gaming Commission
Kazakhstan – Ministry of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan
Kenya – Betting Control and Licensing Board Kenya
Kuwait – Kuwait Finance House
Kyrgyzstan – State Tax Service of the Kyrgyz Republic
Laos – Ministry of Planning and Investment
Latvia – Lotteries and Gambling Supervisory Inspection (IAUI)
Lithuania – Gaming Control Authority
Luxembourg – Luxembourg Ministry of Justice
Macau – Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ)
Macedonia – North Macedonia Games of Chance Administration
Malta – Malta Gambling Authority (MGA)
Mexico – Mexican Gaming Commission
Moldova – Public Services Agency
Montenegro – Montenegro Ministry of Finance
Myanmar – Myanmar Investment Commission
Nepal – Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation of Nepal
Netherlands – Netherlands Gaming Authority
New Zealand – New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs
Nigeria – National Lottery Regulatory Commission of Nigeria
Norway – Norwegian Gaming and Foundation Authority
Panama – Gaming Control Board of Panama
Paraguay – National Committee of Games of Chance Paraguay
Peru – Peru General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines
Philippines – Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation
Poland – Polish Ministry of Finance
Portugal – Portuguese Gaming Regulation and Inspection Service
Romania – National Gambling Office of Romania
Russia – Russian Federation Ministry of Sports, Tourism and Youth
Serbia – Serbian Games of Chance Administration
Singapore – Gambling Regulatory Authority of Singapore
Slovakia – Gambling Regulatory Authority of Slovakia
Slovenia – Slovenia Office for Gaming Supervision
South Africa – National Gambling Board
South Korea – National Gambling Control Commission South Korea
Spain – General Directorate of Gaming Regulation Supervision (DGRG)
Sweden – Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen)
Switzerland – Swiss Gambling Authority
Thailand – Gambling Control Division of Thailand
Turkey – Turkey Gambling Regulatory Agencies
Ukraine – Ministry of Finance Ukraine
United Kingdom – United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC)
Uruguay – Dirección General de Casinos Uruguay
USA – Controlled by Independent states
Vietnam – Ministry of Finance Of Vietnam
Yemen – Yemen Tourism Promotion Board
Top Gaming Licences For Operators in 2024
Here's our selection of the most popular gaming licences for operators seeking to make an impact in 2024.
United Kingdom (UKGC) Gambling Licence
The UKGC licence is considered the benchmark standard in iGaming credibility with its rigorous regulatory oversight and robust compliance policies. Geographically, it grants access to a vast and mature UK gambling market, gaining popularity through its prestigious reputation and ability to inspire the trust and confidence of bettors.
This licence is most suitable for operators aiming for a strong foothold in the UK market, with a strategy for long-term stability over rapid expansion or lower operational costs.
Malta (MGA) Gaming Licence
The highly coveted MGA licence has received global recognition for its proactive approach to iGaming regulation and favourable tax structure. It offers operators access to various international markets, making it a good choice for those seeking a strong European presence while benefiting from an internationally respected regulatory body.
This licence is most suitable for operators prioritising a balance of market reach, credibility, and a stable regulatory environment fostering growth and trust.
Isle of Man (GSC) Gambling Licence
The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) licence is highly regarded within the iGaming industry. It offers extensive geographical and demographic reach, allowing operators to target a global audience. The Isle of Man's appeal stems from its strong regulatory oversight, low corporate taxes, and zero taxes on gambling profits.
This licence suits forward-thinking operators seeking a prestigious licence to expand globally while enjoying significant tax advantages.
Curacao eGaming licence
The Curacao eGaming licence is a popular choice among iGaming operators. This licence offers a broad geographical reach to various international markets. Its straightforward licensing process, attractive tax incentives, and absence of stringent regulatory requirements make it ideal for operators seeking rapid market entry.
The Curacao eGaming licence, therefore, is best suited to start-ups and operators seeking to reach a global audience in multiple jurisdictions fast.
Alderney Gambling Licence (AGCC)
The Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC) licence is known for its high focus on player protection and technical neutrality. It is an internationally trusted licence respected by players and partners worldwide that can be tailored to the operator's unique needs while allowing them to use technology that best fits their business model.
This licence is perfect for operators seeking top-tier international recognition for integrity and fairness combined with a more flexible and adaptable licensing process.
Gibraltar Gambling Licence (GGC)
The Gibraltar Gambling Authority (GGC) is one of the few jurisdictions with a regulatory framework tailored explicitly to remote gaming. This ensures that operators are up-to-date with the latest trends. Licensees can engage with regulators while enjoying access to European markets, competitive tax rates and no VAT.
This licence is ideally suited for established iGaming brands seeking to reinforce their market position and enhance financial stability.
Kahnawake Gaming Licence
Issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission in Quebec, Canada, the Kahnawake Gaming Licence is a top choice for iGaming operators seeking worldwide access. It offers international recognition, a streamlined licensing process, cost-effectiveness, and a robust regulatory framework that focuses on fairness and player protection.
This licence is particularly well suited for mid-sized operators seeking a strategic mix of operational flexibility, global market access and cost efficiencies.
Gambling Licences in the USA
The legal framework for online gambling in the US is complex. While a handful of states have fully embraced online sports betting and casino games, many have some or no legal online gambling possibilities at all.
However, this is all set to change in 2024 now that states can create their own gambling laws. Many are preparing to legalise at least some forms of online gambling and capitalise on its growing popularity.
Here are the current US states open for iGaming business in 2024 and their respective licensing division:
Connecticut: Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP)
Delaware: Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE)
Michigan: Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB)
New Jersey: New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE)
Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB)
West Virginia: West Virginia Lottery Commission
Nevada: Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) and Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC)
Gambling Licences in Canada
Similar to the situation in the USA, gambling activities in Canada are regulated on a provincial (state) level. Each province regulates local gambling laws, which differ from one province to another.
Here is a list of regulators for each province:
Alberta: Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission
British Columbia: The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (MoF)
Manitoba: Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation
New Brunswick: Gaming Control Branch of the (DoPS)
Newfoundland and Labrador: Consumer Affairs Division (DGaS)
Northwest Territories: Department of Municipal & Community Affairs
Nova Scotia: The Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division
Nunavut: The Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commission
Ontario: Alcohol and Gambling Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
Prince Edward Island: Prince Edward Island Lotteries Commission
Quebec: The Quebec Alcohol, Racing and Gaming Commission
Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
Yukon: The Yukon Lottery Commission
Gambling Licences and the Regulatory Landscape
The international iGaming regulatory and licensing environment is intricate, with diverse requirements, processes and oversight. Still, at its core, all share common commitments that contribute to a safe and fair gaming environment for bettors.
Official governing channels typically achieve these objectives by implementing player protection policies, promoting responsible gambling, and preventing money laundering (AML) activities.
Types of Gaming Licence in 2024
Governing bodies worldwide offer multiple gaming licences designed to cover specific land-based and online gambling activities. For example, a casino licence covers a range of games like slots and table games, while a sports betting licence focuses on wagering the outcomes of sporting events.
The requirements, processes, and costs of obtaining a licence from a licensing authority can vary significantly across jurisdictions, often influenced by local laws, the type of gambling operation applying for a licence, and the targeted market.
Who Needs an iGaming Licence?
Many businesses that want to offer gambling products and services to the general public within a jurisdiction will need a licence to operate legally. It includes:
Online gambling operators
A gambling operator is a company that interacts directly with the general public online and offline to provide opportunities to wager on sports and games. It encompasses online casinos, sportsbook operators, lottery and bingo providers and poker platforms.
Game developers
Gaming companies, often referred to as casino game developers, create software that powers online casino games, such as blackjack, virtual games, scratch cards, and instant bingo. NetEnt, Playtech, and Microgaming are three examples of trusted developers that create quality games with fair random number generators (RGNs) and robust security.
iGaming Software Providers
iGaming software providers supply the products and services that connect game developers with operators. Prominent companies like Altenar offer flexible solutions tailored to specific markets and audiences to help companies succeed.
Payment Gateway Providers
Payment providers are companies that facilitate financial transactions between iGaming operators and bettors. Because interactions relate to gambling activities, payment providers must be licensed to comply with legal and regulatory standards, especially in fraud prevention and money laundering.
Affiliate Marketing Companies
Affiliate marketing companies promote and market gambling services on behalf of gambling operators. Depending on jurisdictional regulations, affiliate marketers may sometimes need a gaming licence to meet advertising and marketing guidelines for their target market.
Advantages of Having a Gaming Licence
A gaming licence is essential for operators who want to comply with the law in their markets. It also comes with many advantages.
First and foremost, licence holders have access to a wider market since many jurisdictions are only accessible with the appropriate licence. Serious bettors and online casino players also understand that licensed operators offer certain player protections as standard. A licence assures platform users that the operator is adhering to high standards of fair play and transparency, which boosts player trust. In turn, this helps to attract and retain customers.
The credibility of having a gaming licence assures reputable third-party providers and stakeholders that an operator is working under the industry's best practices. Compliance with licensing requirements helps aspiring operators attract the services of premium software providers in the industry, enhancing the overall quality and security of the platform.
Primary Considerations for Operators when Choosing a Licence
Choosing the most suitable licence for your iGaming platform sets a solid foundation for entry, expansion and sustained success. With this in mind, operators should align their licensing strategy with their target market, budget, and scope of their operations.
Market access & growth
What is the licence's geographical and demographic reach? Does it encompass your target market, and what is the growth potential?
Licensing authority reputation
How will the credibility and prestige of the licensing impact business reputation and player trust? Is it attractive to potential players and partners?
Cost considerations
Do application fees, annual licensing fees and related running costs fall within budget and align with financial planning?
Tax implications
How do ongoing tax liabilities affect profitability and financial planning? Is it fixed or percentage-based, and are there any tax benefits or incentives?
Regulatory requirements
Can the business meet and maintain jurisdictional regulations, standards, and compliance requirements within the licence's regulatory framework?
Time frame
Does the approval process meet the market entry timeline? What are the financial consequences if it does not?
Technical and operational standards
Can the business comply with and sustain the standards required?
Ongoing compliance
What are the ongoing reporting, auditing, inspection and monitoring requirements?
Support and resources
What support services and resources does the licensing authority offer to help with compliance and operational success?
Non-compliance
What are the pitfalls of non-compliance? Moreover, what is the level of exposure to fines, suspension or the possibility of criminal charges?
Steps for Obtaining a Gaming Licence
Although the procedure for obtaining a gambling licence varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, all commonly require a rigorous application process involving the preparation of key documentation.
Here are the basic steps to obtaining a gaming licence for operators in 2024:
Step 1: Research and Select
Being well-informed facilitates a smoother process and is instrumental for long-term success. However, Identifying the optimal licence for your iGaming business can be time-consuming, with many factors to consider. It’s therefore advisable to consult with legal iGaming experts in the countries you want to operate or industry professionals like Altenar who can advise on the products, licences and certificates we are holding before making a commitment.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Applicants must compile an extensive array of documentation, including, but not limited to, business plans, financial records, software details, and information on directors and key personnel to assess operational security and integrity.
Step 3: Application Submission
Once prepared, applicants must submit all required documents to the regulatory body they are applying to, which will then proceed to assess for suitability.
Step 4: Technical Audits and Software Testing
Operators applying for a licence must also have their gaming software tested by independent auditors to ensure fairness, security, and compliance with the technical standards demanded by the licensing body.
Step 5: AML Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Operators applying for a gaming licence in 2024 must also adhere to the regulatory body's standards for anti-money laundering, responsible gaming, and player protection policies.
Step 6: Pay the Licence Fee
Upon satisfying all requirements and receiving regulatory approval, applicants must pay a fee before a licence is granted. First-year and annual licence costs (if applicable) can be significant and should be an important consideration in the research and selection process.
Step 7: Ongoing Compliance Commitments
Holding an iGaming licence requires continuous adherence to regulatory standards, which will require regular inspections, audits, financial reporting, and adherence to changing compliance standards, which can also come with an annual cost.
Final Thoughts
Gambling regulations and licensing requirements are constantly evolving, and it can be challenging for smaller brands to stay within guidelines without dedicated resources. If time is limited, Altenar offers a white-label solution for new operators who want to start an iGaming business instantly.
With our fully customisable option, Alternar will ensure that your brand meets all iGaming regulations in your chosen region, leaving you free to focus on marketing for success.
Contact us today to learn more about a white-label iGaming business that will allow you to scale up and take operations in-house as your business grows.
Disclaimer
This information is not intended to be legal advice and is solely extracted from open sources. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal advice and Altenar does not accept any liability in relation to its use.
