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Curacao offers one of the most popular and affordable online gambling licenses, with over 450 companies already licensed. Its Gaming Control Board (GCB) is well-established, operating under the authority of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. While not part of Europe, Curacao enjoys the benefits of EU ties without the high taxes.
The jurisdiction provides low-cost licensing and fast approval, making it an ideal platform for reaching global markets. Demand for Curacao licenses remains strong, making it a solid choice for both startups and established operators seeking a reputable, accessible, and low-cost licensing solution.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including the key benefits, costs, step-by-step application process and the specific legal requirements that come with a Curacao Gaming License.
Advantages of the Curacao Gaming License
Cost-Effectiveness and Low Taxes
The Curacao gaming license is one of the most affordable licensing options available for online gaming operators. The cost is significantly lower than other jurisdictions like Malta or Gibraltar, making it an attractive choice for startups and small operators looking to save on licensing fees. Furthermore, Curacao offers a 0% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), which is a huge advantage over other regions that tax up to 15%.
Quick and Simple Application Process
Unlike many other jurisdictions where getting a gaming license can take months, Curacao’s application process is straightforward and quick. If all your paperwork is in order, you can have your license approved within 1 to 2 months. This speed is crucial for operators looking to hit the ground running and start accepting players as soon as possible.
Flexibility for Operators
A single Curacao license can cover a wide range of gambling activities. This makes it an ideal choice for operators who wish to diversify their offerings under one license.
Global Reach
The Curacao gaming license allows you to operate in many international markets, making it an appealing choice for companies targeting global expansion.
Curacao Gaming License Cost Breakdown
The Curacao Gaming License is one of the most affordable options in the online gaming sector, but it’s important to know exactly what you’re paying for. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the initial setup costs, recurring charges, and other relevant fees.
Initial Setup Costs
| Service | Cost |
| Company Formation in Curacao | €8,900 |
| Master License Sub-License | Negotiated with the Master License holder |
| Initial Licensing Application Fees | €3,500 – €17,000 |
| Gaming Software or White Label Solutions | Free |
| Corporate Account Setup | €3,000 |
| Crypto Merchant Account Setup | €5,000 – €15,000 |
| Nominee Shareholder (Non-Resident) | €4,000 |
| Nominee Director (Non-Resident) | €6,000 |
| Power of Attorney | €500 |
| Local Curacao Director | €12,000 |
| Physical Office in Curacao (Optional) | €500/month |
Annual and Recurrent Charges
| Service | Cost |
| Company License Renewal | €4,000 – €6,000 |
| Gaming Sub-License Renewal | €10,000 – €13,000 |
| Annual Master License Fee | 120,000 ANG (~€61,700) |
| Annual Corporate Compliance & Due Diligence | €3,500 – €17,000 |
The total cost for obtaining a Curacao Gaming License is approximately EUR 61,700 (including a EUR 60,000 government fee), plus additional costs for company formation, maintenance, and optional services ranging from EUR 8,900 to EUR 19,000.
Additional Costs You Might Encounter:
| Service | Cost |
| Nominee Shareholder (Non-Resident) | €4,000 |
| Nominee Director (Non-Resident) | €6,000 |
| AML Compliance | Included in the licensing package |
| KYC Policies | Optional (€3,500) |
| Business Plan | Optional (€3,000) |
Key Considerations:
- Master License: You will no longer be able to apply for a master license. Only sub-licenses are available, which are issued by holders of master licenses. The cost of acquiring a sub-license depends on the terms negotiated with the master license holder.
- Banking and Payment Solutions: Expect costs for setting up merchant accounts, payment service providers (PSPs), and other financial services. These costs can vary greatly based on the providers you choose.
Total Estimated Costs (Initial and Annual)
- Initial Setup Costs (first year): €20,000 – €40,000+ depending on services.
- Annual Renewal and Maintenance: €10,000 – €15,000+ per year (license renewals, compliance, and banking solutions).
Additional Notes:
- Currency: All fees are listed in EUR and ANG (Netherlands Antillean Guilder).
- Cost Fluctuations: Fees are subject to change due to government fee adjustments or service providers’ pricing. Always get an updated quote before committing.
What the Curacao Gaming License Covers
The Curacao gaming license is a versatile and cost-effective option for online gambling operators. It provides a comprehensive framework that covers a wide range of gambling activities under a single license. Here’s exactly what you get.
B2C and B2B License Types
Curacao gives you two solid options for licensing.
- B2C License: If you’re running a casino, sportsbook, or poker room, this is your ticket. This one license covers everything. You can offer a full range of gambling options to your customers, from slots to sports betting, poker, eSports, bingo, and lotteries. No separate licenses for different types of gambling. It’s all covered.
- B2B License: This is for platform providers. If you’re building a white-label casino, offering gaming software, or providing back-end services, this license is your go-to. It’s the best way to scale your platform and offer services to other operators without managing multiple licenses.
Whichever route you take, Curacao makes it simple.
Online Gambling Activities Allowed
So what can you actually do with a Curacao license? Pretty much everything.
- Online casinos
- Sports betting
- Poker rooms
- eSports betting
- Bingo
- Lotteries
One license covers all these activities. It’s that simple. No need for separate licenses for each offering. Curacao makes it easy to run a diverse gambling business without the hassle.
Curacao Gaming License Restricted Countries and Compliance Rules
The Curacao gaming license gives you a wide reach, but there are still some legal boundaries you must follow. You need to be aware of the restricted countries where you can’t legally offer your services. Plus, there are compliance rules you must adhere to in order to maintain your license and ensure your business operates smoothly.
Restricted Countries List
You cannot accept players from certain jurisdictions while holding a Curacao gaming license. Operators must geo-block players from the following countries:
| Category | Restricted Countries |
| Completely Restricted | United States, United Kingdom, France, Australia, Singapore |
| Domestic Online Gambling Bans | United Arab Emirates, Brunei, Cambodia, North Korea, Qatar |
| Countries Protecting Local Operators | United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland |
| Additional Jurisdictions with Limitations | Norway, Canada, Switzerland |
Website and Technical Compliance
Curacao’s gaming license comes with technical compliance requirements to ensure your platform is secure, fair, and transparent. Your website needs to meet the following standards:
- SSL Encryption: Your site must use HTTPS for secure communication and data protection.
- Encrypted Storage of User Data: Any personal information or transaction details must be securely encrypted.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For added security, especially for users accessing their accounts or making large transactions.
- Compliance Policy Links: Ensure all necessary policies (AML, KYC, Responsible Gaming, etc.) are easy to access from your homepage, often in the footer.
- Game Certification: If you use your own software, it must be certified by an approved testing laboratory (like GLI or eCOGRA). If using third-party providers, you need a fully executed software license agreement that includes:
- The company name
- Authorized URLs
- Games offered
- Providers
- Allowed and restricted territories
- Revenue share terms
Responsible Gaming Standards
Curacao has strict rules around responsible gaming, and you must provide the necessary tools and policies to support this:
| Required Responsible Gaming Tools | Details |
| Self-Exclusion | Players must be able to exclude themselves easily from playing. |
| Deposit and Loss Limits | Players must be able to set limits on how much they can deposit or lose. |
| Session Time Reminders | Players should receive reminders about how long they’ve been playing. |
| Underage Gambling Restrictions | Ensure players are at least 18 years old to gamble on your platform. |
| Links to Responsible Gaming Organizations | Must link to relevant organizations like GamCare or GamStop for assistance. |
Compliance Officer Requirements
Your designated Compliance Officer must be independent. They cannot be a Director, Shareholder, or UBO of the company. This person is responsible for overseeing ongoing compliance with Curacao’s gaming laws and international standards.
Here’s a checklist for your Compliance Officer:
| Requirement | Details |
| Independence | The Compliance Officer must be separate from ownership and day-to-day operations. |
| Documentation | Submit Certified Passport and Proof of Address (within 90 days). |
| Personal Form | The Compliance Officer must fill out a Personal Form. |
Ongoing Compliance
After obtaining your Curacao gaming license, you will be required to:
- Submit annual audits to ensure compliance with the license conditions.
- Adhere to updated AML, KYC, and CFT regulations.
- Submit certifications for all games offered on your platform (especially RNG-based games).
- Keep up with regulatory changes as Curacao’s gaming laws evolve and be ready for regular updates to stay compliant.
Curacao Gaming License Application Process
The application process for the Curacao gaming license is relatively straightforward compared to other jurisdictions. If you come prepared with all the necessary documentation and meet the legal requirements, you could be up and running in as little as 1 to 2 months. Here’s how to get it done.
Step 1: Incorporate Your Company in Curacao
To kick things off, you need a Curacao-based company. This is non-negotiable. Whether you’re starting fresh or using an existing company, it must be registered in Curacao. This gives you the legitimacy required to apply for the gaming license.
Step 2: Set Up a Holding Company in the EU
You’ll need to establish a holding company within the EU for banking and payment processing purposes. This step ensures that your operations are fully compliant with international standards and ready for financial transactions.
Step 3: Buy a Sub-License
Gone are the days of applying for a master license directly. Now, you’ll need to purchase a sub-license from an existing master license holder. This is how you gain the right to operate your casino under Curacao’s regulatory framework.
Step 4: Register Your Casino with CIGA
After securing your sub-license, the next step is to register your casino with the Curacao Interactive Gaming Association (CIGA). This is the official regulatory body that oversees your operation in Curacao.
Step 5: Wait for Approval (Typically 4-6 Weeks)
Once everything is submitted, the Curacao Gaming Control Board (GCB) will review your application. The process usually takes 4-6 weeks, but with the right guidance, you can expect a smoother and faster turnaround.
Step 6: Open Your Payment Accounts
To process transactions and provide smooth customer experiences, set up your Merchant, EMI, and Payment Service Provider (PSP) accounts. These accounts are essential for handling payments and ensuring your operations run without a hitch.
Step 7: Ongoing Compliance and Renewal
Once you’re licensed, remember: it’s not a one-and-done deal. You’ll need to stay compliant with Curacao’s regulations, which include regular audits and reapplying for your license annually.
Curacao Gaming License Compliance and Reporting Requirements
Holding a Curacao gaming license means you are required to stay on top of regular compliance checks and adhere to updated regulatory standards. Curacao’s Gaming Control Board (GCB) expects all operators to maintain a high level of operational transparency and legal compliance throughout the life of the license.
Ongoing Compliance Obligations
Once you’re licensed, the work isn’t over. You’ll need to maintain compliance with both local regulations and international standards.
- Annual Audits and Reporting
Every year, your operation must undergo audits to verify compliance with the Curacao Gaming License requirements. These audits generally include:- Financial audits to confirm transparency in your operations.
- AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) checks to ensure that you’re adhering to global standards.
Regular RNG (Random Number Generator) certification for fairness and transparency in your games.
- Updating Compliance Documents
Your AML and KYC policies need to be updated regularly. If there are changes to your business model, software, or operations, those updates must be reflected in your compliance documentation. Failure to do so could lead to fines or license suspension.
Continuous Adherence to AML and KYC Regulations
As part of Curacao’s ongoing compliance requirements, operators must continue to follow Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. This includes:
- Regular KYC checks for new players to verify identity and prevent fraud.
- AML procedures that monitor large transactions, suspicious activity, and financial crime.
- Ongoing player monitoring to ensure that you are meeting international standards.
The Gaming Control Board (GCB) actively monitors your operations, so it’s critical to ensure you’re always aligned with these regulations.
Submission of Game Certifications and Responsible Gaming Policies
As part of your compliance obligations, you must ensure that all games offered on your platform are regularly certified for fairness.
- RNG Certification: If you operate with your own game software, it must be tested by an approved third-party testing laboratory (like GLI or eCOGRA) to confirm the fairness of the RNG (Random Number Generator).
- Responsible Gaming Policies: You need to ensure that your platform has visible links to responsible gaming organizations and that you have the tools in place for self-exclusion, deposit limits, and time reminders for players.
The Gaming Control Board expects these policies to be up to date, and you’ll need to submit them for review as part of your ongoing compliance checks.
Regulatory Updates and Changes
The gaming industry, especially the online gambling sector, is constantly evolving. Curacao’s regulations are no different. As an operator, it’s your responsibility to stay informed about any changes in Curacao’s gaming laws or international regulations.
- Stay Updated on Legal Changes: The GCB regularly updates its guidelines, and new amendments to anti-money laundering laws, gaming fairness regulations, and player protection rules may impact your operations.
- Regulatory News: Subscribe to industry news and connect with local legal advisors to stay on top of any changes that may affect your license status.
Curacao Gaming License Renewal Process
Your Curacao gaming license doesn’t last forever. After the first year, you’ll need to prepare for license renewal. Staying on top of the renewal process ensures that you maintain your ability to operate legally and without interruption.
License Renewal Timeline
The Curacao Gaming Control Board (GCB) requires that operators renew their license annually. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Start Early: Begin your renewal preparations at least 2 months before your current license expires. This gives you enough time to gather all required documents and address any compliance issues that may arise during the review.
- Annual Renewal Fees: You’ll be required to pay annual maintenance fees and any associated costs for renewals (like local office fees, agent fees, etc.). The GCB license renewal fee is generally the same as the first-year fee, which is EUR 120,000.
Updating Your Business Plan and Compliance Documents
One of the most important parts of your license renewal is ensuring that your business plan and compliance documents are up to date. The GCB requires the following documents to be reviewed and resubmitted for renewal:
- Business Plan: Your business model may have changed since you first applied for the license. Update your financial projections, growth strategies, and new gaming activities (if applicable).
- Compliance Policies: These must be refreshed to reflect any changes in AML, KYC, and responsible gaming standards. Ensure all policies comply with the latest local and international regulations.
- Financial Documentation: Submit your most recent financial statements and tax filings. These should be up to date and properly certified.
RNG Certifications and Game Updates
For RNG-based games, you must submit new certifications to ensure your games are still fair and compliant. You’ll also need to provide:
- Game audits from third-party labs (such as eCOGRA or GLI) for any new games added to your platform since your last renewal.
- Game software updates: If you’ve made any changes to the platform or games, you’ll need to include detailed documentation of these changes.
Renewal Submission and Approval
Once all documentation is gathered and fees are paid, you’ll submit your renewal application through the GCB portal. The process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. The GCB will review your updated documents, financial status, and compliance history. If everything is in order, your renewal will be approved.
Avoiding License Interruptions
To avoid disruptions in your operations, ensure that you:
- Maintain continuous compliance with all regulatory requirements.
- File all required documents on time.
- Pay your renewal fees early to avoid late fees or potential rejection.
Best Practices for Operating Under a Curacao License
Securing your Curacao gaming license is just the beginning. The real work starts once you begin operating under the license. Staying compliant, building player trust, and optimizing your platform will separate the successful operators from the ones that fail. Let’s talk about what experienced operators know and do to thrive.
Operational Transparency
Transparency is key for building trust with your players and meeting regulatory requirements.
- Display License Information: The Curacao Gaming Control Board (GCB) requires this, but you should also use it to your advantage. Display your license number and license authority on your website and marketing materials. This not only builds trust with players but also signals legitimacy to payment processors and financial institutions.
- Clear Terms and Conditions: Your Terms of Service should clearly outline everything — from payout percentages to bonus conditions and game rules. When players understand what they’re agreeing to, it reduces the chances of disputes. Clearer T&Cs mean fewer issues down the road. Don’t leave anything open to interpretation.
- Responsible Gaming Policies: Curacao mandates responsible gaming measures, but you should also make them a selling point. Use self-exclusion tools and deposit limits to show you care about player welfare. It builds loyalty and ensures long-term success.
Maintain Fair Play
Curacao requires RNG certifications, but good operators know that it’s not just about certification — it’s about keeping up with testing.
- RNG Certifications: While RNG certification from recognized labs like eCOGRA or GLI is required, this is just the minimum standard. You should be re-certifying regularly — especially if you’ve updated your games or added new features. Fairness isn’t static, and you need to ensure continued game fairness.
- Third-Party Audits: RNG testing isn’t the only thing that matters. Third-party audits are another critical step. These audits ensure that your platform remains transparent and fair. Regular audits help build credibility with both players and financial partners. If you skip these, you risk losing player trust and payment processing opportunities.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
Even the most experienced operators can make mistakes if they’re not careful. Here’s what I’ve seen firsthand:
- Neglecting Responsible Gaming: Failing to implement self-exclusion tools or deposit limits isn’t just a compliance issue — it’s a reputation killer. If you want long-term success, your platform has to show that you take player protection seriously.
- Neglecting to Update Documents: Procrastination is dangerous when it comes to keeping documents updated. Curacao doesn’t work on a “fix it later” basis. If your business plan or compliance documents aren’t up to date, your renewal process will drag on and your license could be delayed or rejected.
- Ignoring Regional Restrictions: The Curacao license requires geo-blocking players from restricted countries. Some operators try to skirt this rule, thinking it won’t matter. It always matters. The GCB checks for compliance regularly, and violating geo-blocking could cost you your license.
Leverage Compliance for Growth
Here’s the thing — compliance is not just a chore. It’s a strategic advantage if you know how to use it.
- Payment Processor Access: Being compliant makes you more attractive to payment processors. When you have a legitimate license from Curacao, you have a much better shot at getting payments processed without a hitch. Compliant platforms get higher approval rates from payment providers.
- Attract Affiliates and Software Providers: Big affiliates won’t promote your platform if it’s not licensed. The same goes for top-tier game providers. They won’t supply their games if your operation isn’t legally compliant. Staying compliant means you can partner with the best and scale your platform.
- Player Trust: Compliant platforms gain the trust of players. When players know your platform is operating within the law, they feel safer. This loyalty translates into long-term retention and higher revenue.
Get Expert Assistance from MG Gaming for Your Curaçao Gaming License – Over 300 Licenses Processed!
Don’t waste time with the red tape. MG Gaming makes getting your Curacao gaming license easy, fast, and affordable. Contact us today to begin your application and start offering your platform legally under Curacao’s trusted gaming regulations.
Our Curacao Gaming License Package:
- Includes updated policies, procedures, and business plans.
- New License Procedure:
- Application process for new Curaçao gaming licenses.
- Submission of applications.
- Collection and preparation of documents.
- Full Legal Package:
- AML framework setup.
- Compliance officer and policies.
- Audits under new regulations, including IT audits.
- Corporate Structure:
- Formation of a Curaçao company.
- Provision of a local director.
- Payments:
- Opening bank accounts in Europe.
- Setting up merchant accounts.
- Creation of crypto wallets.
- License Coverage:
- Licenses for all iGaming products: online casinos, apps, sports betting, poker, lotteries, bingo
- Application submission to GCB
- Assists with local directors
- Helps set up a local office
- Comprehensive service package for obtaining the license
- CGA has released the new requirements and forms for submission
- Online Gaming License Application Form.
- Supplier License Application Form (I believe this is for the B2Bs).
- Business and Corporate Information Form.
- Personal History Disclosure Form.
- Personal History Disclosure Short Form
