Gambling Licence Types: What You Need to Know in 2025

Online Gambling is a rather specific sphere which has several requirements as well as restrictions. In order to regulate this activity, online Casino licences were created. These licenses are a framework for operators to follow the law and be transparent in their operations. By getting different types of Gambling licences operators show they are committed to fair play, player protection and responsible gambling.

What is a Gambling license and what types of them exist? In this article, we will look at the different types of iGaming licenses, what they mean and the process of getting them. Understanding these is key to navigating the online Gaming landscape.

What is a Gambling License?

A Gambling license is a legal permission given by a regulatory body that allows operators to run Gambling activities online. This license ensures the operator follows the laws and regulations to protect players and fair gaming. This includes compliance with anti-money laundering laws, responsible casino practices, and consumer protection regulations.

Benefits of iGaming licenses:

1. Legal Compliance: Online gambling license ensures operators comply with the laws of the jurisdiction they are based in. This avoids legal issues and penalties;
2. Market Credibility: Having a good gambling license boosts an operator’s credibility. Players trust a licensed casino or sportsbook more knowing it meets regulatory standards;
3. Access to Markets: Many Gambling jurisdictions require online gambling licenses for businesses to operate legally. A valid license opens doors to new markets and expands an operator’s reach.

Types of Gambling Licenses

Gambling licenses vary by jurisdiction. They are:

1. Curacao Gaming License;
2. Malta Gaming License;
3. Isle of Man Gaming License;
4. UK Gaming License;
5. Gibraltar Gaming License;
6. Antigua and Barbuda Gaming License;
7. Montenegro Gaming License;
8. Anjouan Gaming License;
9. Kahnawake Gaming License;
10. Alderney Gaming License.

Let’s take a closer look at these 10 types of gambling licences and discover their main characteristics.

1. Curacao Gaming License

The Curacao License is one of the most popular and cheapest licenses for online Gambling operators in 2025. Issued by the government of Curacao, a small Dutch Caribbean island that has become a hub for online gaming. One of the advantages of a license is that you can apply for it online.

Main characteristics of the Curacao License:

• Licensing and compliance with the rules are now controlled by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board;
• The license is issued for one year, but there may be changes in laws or revocation of licenses, which are important to be aware of;
• Licenses are issued only to companies registered in Curacao, with a local office and confirmed financial obligations.

In recent years the rules for operators have tightened up. For example the master license has been abolished, so now all operators get their licenses directly from the Gaming Control Board (GCB) without intermediaries.

There is also a division of licenses into B2B and B2C. B2C licenses are created for operators and B2B licenses are for providers of software and platforms for Gambling.

And another rule is that operators must implement strict customer identification and financial monitoring.

Application process includes the following stages:

1. You need to register a company in Curaçao and open a bank account. This is important because the applicant’s legal entity must be registered in the jurisdiction;
2. Prepare the company for the submission of documents. Fill out the application forms, business plan, information about the final beneficiaries, key employees, provide financial statements, AML/KYC policies, etc.;
3. You need to apply through the GCB online portal, attaching documents;
4. The regulator will check you for compliance with the requirements;
5. If you comply with the Curacao license rules, you will be able to pay application fees and obtain a license.

2. Malta Gaming License

Malta is the first EU country to recognize the legality of online Gambling. In 2004, the Regulations on Remote Gambling were approved here.

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has a comprehensive licensing framework for B2C and B2B operators in the gaming industry. B2C licenses are further divided into four classes, each for different types of gaming activities.

Let’s look through the B2C types of licenses in Malta:

• Class 1: It is for operators that run games where the outcome is determined by a Random Number Generator. This is mainly for online casinos;
• Class 2: This is for operators that offer betting on the outcome of real world events, mainly sports betting;
• Class 3: Operators that make money from players’ stakes or winnings, such as poker, fall under Class 3 licenses. This is for games with a commission based revenue model;
• Class 4: It is for operators of skill based games where the outcome can be influenced by player statistics, such as fantasy sports. This license shows Malta’s commitment to innovation in gaming.

In summary, the MGA’s licensing structure is designed to ensure operators meet high standards of fairness, security and player protection, making Malta the go to place for online gambling.

How to apply for Malta Gambling license:

1. Business audit: The Gambling Regulatory Commission evaluates data on the financial and administrative status of the business. This is a joint check with international bodies and legal agencies;
2. Check of business plan: Next, the commission examines your business plan, including marketing, recruitment, forecasts, and financial prospects;
3. Regulatory compliance check: The Malta Gambling Regulatory Commission also checks the applicant, his finances, integrity, as well as the reliability and competence of related parties;
4. System check: If you have passed the previous stages, you will receive a message about the successful review of the application. Next, the commission will conduct a system audit to ensure that your casino complies with the application. If all the processes are approved, you get a 10-year license;
5. Verification of compliance with requirements and standards: After receiving the license, the auditor will check the casino for compliance with the requirements and standards within 90 days.

3. Isle of Man Gaming License

The Isle of Man is located between England and Ireland, is a possession of the British Crown, but is not subject to British laws. Therefore, there is an iGaming license here. The license is granted for five years, but the Gambling Commission has the authority to revoke it at any time if any rules or restrictions are violated.

There are various types of licenses available on the island, each tailored to different goals and business objectives:

• Full license: This is the main license, according to which the operator can operate B2C, register players on its platform and collect their data;
• Sub-license: This license is suitable for operators who are opening casinos for the first time. It is also suitable for operators with their own base of potential players, but without gaming products;
• Network license: This license includes the same rights and obligations as a full one, and also allows to accept players registered at a casino licensed in another jurisdiction without the need for additional registration;
• B2B software services licensing: The software provider license is not mandatory for companies supplying software to Isle of Man licensees, but obtaining it enhances their reputation. There are two types of licenses: one for traditional fiat platforms and another for blockchain-based software, introduced in 2019.

4. UK Gaming License

Licenses in the UK is issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). To receive it, operators must provide extensive documentation confirming their compliance and comply with regulatory requirements.

Why opt for this license? Many reputable online casino operators hold a UK license, enabling them to choose advantageous payment options, establish relationships with banks, and recruit skilled personnel.

To obtain this license, you have to provide the following documentation:

• Information about beneficial ownership;
• Financial plans;
• A business plan;
• A management structure;
• AML/CFT policy.

To obtain a UK gambling license, you need to follow a few simple steps:

1. Completing the license application;
2. Opening a bank account;
3. Payment of government fees;
4. Obtaining a license.

Please keep in mind that some authorities may require additional documents, such as information about the passage of funds, bank statements, authorities, etc.

If you didn’t get a license the first time, you can try again, but better prepared.

5. Gibraltar Gambling License

Gibraltar is a British territory, and it also has special rules for obtaining a gambling license.

This license is valid for an extended period of 5 years. Additionally, the tax rates for the Gaming industry are quite favorable, set at just 1% on income, with a maximum limit of £425,000 annually.

The Gibraltar Licensing Department issues six types of licenses:

• for B2C online casino operators;
• for B2C betting platform operators;
• for B2C operators with other gambling products;
• for B2B service providers for the gambling industry;
• for B2C operators of land-based casinos;
• for B2C operators of land-based bookmakers.

To secure a gambling license in Gibraltar, you need to show your relevant work experience in the industry and confirm that you have no criminal record. Additionally, here are the key requirements:

• Your company, office and directors must be based in Gibraltar;
• You must provide proof that neither the owners nor key employees have any criminal records;
• Applicants should hold a valid license from another jurisdiction or have substantial experience in the gambling sector;
• All required fees must be paid before you submit your application.

To obtain a gambling license in Gibraltar, you’ll need to complete several key steps:

• Registration: Start by registering your company in Gibraltar and appointing a local representative;
• Business Plan: Prepare a detailed business plan outlining your goals, the types of gambling products you plan to offer, payment methods, and financial projections for the next three years;
• Certification: Ensure that your gambling products and services are certified and tested by independent third parties to meet Gibraltar’s regulatory standards.

The entire licensing process typically takes about five to six months, and the license is valid for five years.

6. Antigua and Barbuda Gaming License

License in Antigua and Barbuda, part of the British Commonwealth, is faster and cheaper than many other countries. The government is actively working to develop the online gambling sector, and the iGaming market has been experiencing significant growth. This has positioned Antigua and Barbuda as an attractive destination for remote gambling operators for many years.

The licenses available in Antigua and Barbuda are:

• Online Gaming: For companies that want to operate online casinos;
• Interactive Betting: For bookmakers that take sports bets online.

How to get the Antigua and Barbuda license:

• Company Registration: Your business must be registered under the laws of Antigua and Barbuda and have a physical presence on the islands;
• Document Preparation: You will need to gather various documents including an application form, business plan, proof of financial stability and technical documentation;
• Application Submission and Review: Submit your application to the Financial Services Regulatory Commission and be prepared to provide additional information if requested by the regulator;
• Final Approval: You can get your iGaming license once you pass the evaluation and pay all government fees.

7. Montenegro Gaming License

Gambling has been legal in Montenegro since 2006, with online gambling following suit in 2011. The industry is governed by the Gambling Act, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of gambling operators.

To obtain a license in Montenegro, the following requirements must be met:

• The company needs to be registered in Montenegro;
• There must be at least one shareholder and one director, both of whom should have no criminal history;
• You’ll need to submit various documents, including the company’s name and address, proof of minimum capital, a three-year business plan, and a description of the proposed games along with their rules.

The application process for a gambling license in Montenegro is as follows:

1. Eligibility Check: Make sure you meet the basic requirements: financial stability, no legal issues, and compliance with local laws;
2. Document Preparation: Collect the necessary documents: business plan, financial statements and description of activities;
3. Submit Application: Send your documents to the Administration for Games of Chance (AGC) in Montenegro. This is the official start of the licensing process;
4. Application Review: AGC will review your application, check your financial stability, business plan and criminal record. This may take some time so be patient;
5. Inspection Check: AGC may conduct an inspection of your premises to check if you comply with the standards. This is important to verify your physical facilities are ready to operate;
6. Decision on Issuance: After review your application will be approved or rejected. A positive decision gives you the right to operate in Montenegro’s gambling industry.

8. Anjouan Gaming License

Anjouan is a volcanic island located in the Indian Ocean.

Licenses issued in Anjouan are valid for one year and must be renewed regularly. Unlike some areas that offer sublicenses, Anjouan provides standard individual licenses for both B2B and B2C operations.

In 2025, this jurisdiction became appealing for obtaining an Anjouan gambling license for several reasons:

• Broad validity: The license is recognized in numerous countries, with the exception of Australia, Austria, France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, and nations on the FATF blacklist;
• Affordability: The cost of a license in Anjouan is approximately €17,000;
• Quick processing: You can acquire a gambling license in Anjouan within just 2 to 4 weeks;
• High standards: Despite its low cost, Anjouan’s license mandates adherence to all regulations, including anti-money laundering measures and player protection;
• Versatile application: The license is suitable for operators providing services to players, as well as for software and content developers.

The steps to obtain a gambling license in Anjouan are as follows:

1. Document preparation: Gather all required documents for KYC and application submission. It’s crucial to demonstrate the legality and transparency of your business;
2. Verification process: All key personnel, including the owner, director, and beneficiary, must undergo thorough KYC checks and integrity assessments;
3. Application submission: File your application with Anjouan Licensing Services Inc. (ALSI), including all necessary documents and payment of the fee;
4. Review process: This involves a comprehensive analysis of your business and an evaluation of key staff, which may include interviews to discuss business plans;
5. License issuance: It usually takes 3 to 4 weeks. Upon successful completion of the process, you will receive your license and can commence your operations.

9. Kahnawake Gaming License

Kahnawake was among the first places to issue gambling licenses. The Kahnawake Gambling Commission established the initial regulations for organizing gambling activities in 1999. 

Since then, the Commission has been committed to ensuring responsible and fair practices in the gambling industry, making sure that operations are conducted solely within legal frameworks.

The process of obtaining a gambling license in Kahnawake might take longer compared to other regions. The key steps involved are:

1. Appointment of a key person: Designate an individual responsible for the operations;
2. Document preparation: Gather all required documentation;
3. Application submission: Submit your application along with the registration fee;
4. Decision waiting period: Await a decision, which typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks;
5. Launching your online casino: Once approved, you can start your online casino operations.

Once all documents are approved and the application is successful, the license will be valid for just 6 months. Thirty days prior to the expiration of this period, the Commission will review the operator’s performance and ensure compliance with all regulations.

10. Alderney Gaming License

The Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC) is a prominent authority in the iGaming sector, serving as both a licensor and regulator. Established in May 2000, AGCC has worked to ensure that the island’s gambling regulations keep pace with the evolving industry landscape.

AGCC provides both Category 1 and Category 2 licenses, along with certificates of conformity and temporary licenses.

Licenses are granted to businesses registered in Alderney, while certificates of conformity are also available for foreign companies.

How to get a Gambling License in Alderney:

1. Document submission: Get all documents ready and pay the initial investigation fee. £10,000 for Category 1 and Category 2 licenses;
2. AGCC investigation: The AGCC will review everything to make sure you meet all the requirements: financial stability, reputation and overall compliance with the regulations;
3. Meeting with the director of regulatory enforcement: You will need to present your business plan and information about your partners and stakeholders;
4. License fee payment: Once the AGCC approves the initial investigation you will need to pay the license fee. But you can’t start operating until you complete the next step;
5. Testing of gambling equipment: Internal control systems and gaming equipment will be tested to make sure they meet the regulatory requirements. Only then can you move forward;
6. Go live: Once you get the final approval from the AGCC you can start your gambling business.