Gambling license

A gambling license allows a business to operate legally and earn trust. Licensed operators are more reliable for banks, payment providers, and industry partners, making it easier to run a successful business.

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What is a Gambling License

A gambling license grants a business the legal authority to operate, whether it’s an online casino, sportsbook, poker room, or lottery. It is not merely risky to operate without one; it is illegal.

A license is issued by a regulator or government, but laws vary by jurisdiction. In the UK, for example, companies need approval from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC); in Malta, from Malta Gaming Authority (MGA); and in Kahnawake, Canada from the Kahnawake Gaming Commission.

Getting a gambling license is more than just paperwork. Companies have to prove financial stability, steer clear of shady dealings, and put strong safeguards in place to prevent fraud and protect players.

The cost varies widely—some licenses are affordable, while others require serious investment. A Kahnawake license costs around $40,000 for the first year, while a UK Gambling Commission license can be £30,000 or more, depending on business size.

A valid license builds trust, allows business to work with banks and payment providers, and keeps them legally compliant. Without one, operators risk fines, shutdowns, or even being blacklisted, making it impossible to operate in many markets.

Who Needs to Obtain a Gambling License

Anyone looking to run a gambling business legally needs a license, whether it’s an online or land-based operation offering games of chance or betting services with real money. 

Online casinos that offer slot machines, blackjack, roulette, or poker must be licensed to operate legally and work with banks and payment providers. Sportsbooks that take bets on football, basketball, horse racing, eSport, or any other event also need a license. The same goes for poker rooms, as well as lottery operators and bingo platforms, which must be licensed to ensure fair play and compliance with gambling laws. 

For companies that offer gambling services directly to players, there’s a B2C (Business-to-Customer) license. But it’s not just operators that need approval—game developers, software providers, and white-label casino platforms often require a license too, especially if they work with regulated gambling businesses. For these, there’s a B2B (Business-to-Business) license, designed for companies that supply gambling-related products but don’t deal with players directly.

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Advantages of a Gambling License

Global Market Entry

Many countries straight-up block unlicensed gambling sites. A license lets you legally tap into huge, regulated markets, so you’re not limited to just a handful of customers.

Payment Access

A license opens doors to smooth transactions by partnering with major banks, e-wallet providers like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller, or credit card companies like Visa and Mastercard.

Credibility & Trust

In the online gambling industry, trust is everything. A gambling license acts as proof that your platform is regulated, secure, and compliant with fair gaming standards.

Legal Protection

Many countries have strict gambling laws, and without a license, you risk fines, shutdowns, or blacklisting. A license provides you legal protection from unexpected enforcement actions.

Gambling License Requirements

To obtain a gambling license, businesses must meet several strict requirements set by regulatory authorities. Here’s a breakdown of general gambling license requirements.

Personal Documentation

  • Valid passports for all key personnel, including directors and major shareholders.
  • Proof of address for key personnel (issued within the last 3-6 months).
  • Recent bank statements to verify financial stability.
  • Clean criminal records (issued by official authorities).
  • A detailed resume of professional background, qualifications, and industry experience for each key person.

Corporate Documents

  • Documentation to prove the source of funds used for the business.
  • Certificate of incorporation, articles of association, and memorandum of association.
  • A detailed business plan outlining your business strategy, market analysis, and financial projections.
  • Details of all shareholders and their percentages of ownership
  • Detailed policies outlining your Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer procedures.
  • Certifications for gaming software used.
  • Reports from recent security audits of your gaming systems.
  • Policies in place to promote responsible gaming practices.

Keep in mind, requirements vary by jurisdiction—what’s needed in one country may not apply in another. 

The paperwork can feel overwhelming, but we, at MGL, handle the entire process. You only need to provide your personal documents, and we take care of the rest, ensuring everything is accurate, up to date, and properly prepared for submission.

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How to Get a Gambling License

Here’s a general guide on how to get a gambling license:

Step 1 Choose the Jurisdiction

Research different jurisdictions to find one that aligns with your business needs. Some well-known options include the Vanuatu Gaming Authority (VGA), Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA), Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Kahnawake Gaming Commission (Canada), and Vanuatu Gambling Authority. Some regions have strict rules and higher fees, while others offer a quicker and more affordable approval process.

Step 2 Register Your Business

First, the company needs to be officially registered in the country or region where it’s applying. In most cases, businesses choose offshore jurisdictions for their flexible regulations and tax benefits. This means registering a legal entity—whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or equivalent—and submitting details about the ownership structure, shareholders, and directors. 

Some regulators require the business to have a physical office there or a representative in their jurisdiction for oversight, while others allow remote registration. If you’re considering an offshore setup, MGL can guide you through the process and help with everything from paperwork to compliance.

Step 3 Prepare Necessary Documents

Gather personal documents for owners and key employees, such as passport copies, utility bills, clean criminal record, CV, and proof of funds. The exact list of required documents depends on the jurisdiction. For example, in addition to the documents mentioned above, obtaining a Malta Gambling License requires a Source of Wealth Declaration, a Personal Declaration Form, and a Statement of Affairs template. 

In addition to personal and incorporated documentation, you need to implement anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies. This includes verifying player identities, monitoring transactions, and ensuring all funds are legitimate. 

Many regulators also require operators implement a responsible gaming policy to protect players, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and help for those struggling with gambling addiction.

Step 4 Pay Application Fees

Each jurisdiction has its own fee structure. In some cases, payment is required before submitting documents, while in others, it is due afterward. Application fees also vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. For example, a Kahnawake Gaming License costs around $40,000 for the first year, while a Malta license can range from €25,000 to €100,000, depending on the business size and type.

Step 5 Submit the Application

On top of that, businesses must pay application fees, yearly renewal costs, and gambling taxes, which vary depending on the licensing jurisdiction. Once approved, operators must submit regular reports and undergo inspections to keep their license valid. 

Step 6 Software and Gaming Compliance

In some cases, such as Kahnawake, a company's servers must be located within the licensing country for better oversight.

Step 7 Await Approval

The licensing authority runs background checks on owners and executives to ensure they have no criminal records. They also review financial records to confirm the company has enough funds to operate smoothly and cover payouts.

Once everything is in order, the regulator grants the license, allowing the business to operate legally.

The time it takes to get a license can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the jurisdiction. Some places, like Anjouan and Vanuatu, process applications quickly, around 2-4 or 4-8 weeks, while others, like Malta and the UK, require more time, 4-8 and 6-12 months.

Step 8 Maintain Compliance

After getting the license, the company must stay compliant, submit regular reports, and pass periodic inspections to keep its license valid.

Types of Gambling Licenses

The most popular licenses

Tobique

Tobique License is a new gaming license from Tobique First Nation, New Brunswick, Canada, offering a fast, non-bureaucratic process with global reach

Kahnawake

Secure your Kahnawake Gambling License easily. My Gaming License provides detailed support on licensing requirements, costs, and legal benefits for your gaming platform.

Curacao

Curaçao Gaming License is one of the most reputable licenses in the global gaming industry. Its long-standing reputation and strong compliance standards make it trusted by banks, payment processors, and gaming providers

Vanuatu

Vanuatu, a trusted gaming licensing leader, now offers a streamlined online gaming license. The license is issued within 30 days, it’s affordable, transparent, and internationally respected.

Anjouan

The Anjouan Gaming License, regulated by the Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority, provides a trusted regulatory framework for online gaming operators.

Suspension or Revocation of Gambling License

Regulatory authorities can suspend or revoke a gambling license if an operator violates regulations, breaks license conditions, or puts players and public trust at risk.

But what’s the difference?

  • Suspension (Temporary): The license is put on hold while the operator fixes compliance issues or undergoes an investigation. If resolved, operations can resume.
  • Revocation (Permanent): The license is permanently canceled due to serious or repeated violations. The operator must shut down immediately and can’t legally continue gambling activities.

Here’s what can put an operator at risk:

  • Ignoring Regulations: Failing to report finances, neglecting security measures, or not protecting players.
  • AML Failures: Not following Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations, which are a legal requirement.
  • Fraudulent Activities: Involvement in fraud, financial misconduct, or manipulation of games.
  • Financial Instability: Inability to prove financial health or pay out player winnings.
  • Missed Payments: Failing to renew the license or pay gaming taxes on time.
  • Failure to Report: Providing false information or not submitting required financial and operational reports.
  • Illegal Activity: Direct involvement in money laundering or other criminal actions.
  • Technical Compliance Issues: Running unsecured, unfair, or non-compliant gaming platforms.

Losing a gambling license can shut down operations instantly. All gambling activities must stop, and rebuilding trust becomes nearly impossible. 

On top of that, financial penalties and fines can add to the damage, adding even more pressure. Regulators in other countries will see past violations, making future licensing approvals much harder. 

That said, not every violation leads to serious consequences. If the issues isn’t critical, regulators usually issue a warning and require corrections rathen than suspending or revoking the license. Keeping a license in good standing isn’t just important—it’s essential for staying in business.

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WHY MGL?

Here are 5 reasons why we are the best fit for your project

1. Efficiency

1 Form: Just one form to fill out—we handle everything else.
30 Minutes: All we need from you to kickstart the process.
1-3 Days: Fast company formation so you can start using your business immediately.
6-7 Weeks: Get your casino licensed.


2. Real-Time Communication

1 Hour: Average response time for quick and seamless support.
Connect Anytime, Anywhere: Stay connected via WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype, email, or your preferred platform.

3. Transparency

Clear Pricing: All costs are stated upfront in every offer and engagement letter.
Detailed Cost Breakdown: Full understanding of what you’re paying for, with every detail explained.

4. Industry Expertise

Extensive Licensing Experience: Work directly with seasoned licensing experts who have years of success in the iGaming industry.
Practical iGaming insights: Leverage our expertise in navigating real-world challenges for online casinos, extending beyond standard compliance

5. Problem Solvers

9 out of 10 Challenges Solved:
Consulting-Driven approach:
Led by an ex-McKinsey consultant, our team applies a strategic approach to tackle even the most complex issues
We Find the Answers: No matter the question or challenge, we leverage our expertise and connections to find the right answers
Ongoing Support: We are committed to building lasting relationships, providing ongoing support to ensure your long-term success

FAQ about Gambling License

Everything you need to know about Our company. Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our team.

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Can I offer casino and sports betting?

Yes. The license covers online casino, sports betting, poker, lottery, bingo, and more. It's a full-spectrum iGaming license.

How long does it take to get licensed?

There are no such information as of now. We expect 3–4 months from application submission to final approval

Do I need a company in Timor-Leste?

Yes. You must register a local company in the Oecusse Free Trade Zone to apply for a Timor-Leste gambling license.

Is the license valid globally?

Yes. The Timor-Leste iGaming license allows operations in many countries, but you must comply with each target market's laws. It's ideal for international casino and sportsbook operators.

How long does a Gambling License last?​

A gambling license lasts anywhere from one year to indefinitely, depending on the jurisdiction and compliance requirements. Malta (MGA) licenses are valid for 10 years, Anjouan renews yearly, and the UK grants licenses indefinitely with regular checks.

When do you need a Gambling License?​

Anyone running a gambling business, online or offline, needs a license to operate legally.

How long does it take to get a Gambling License?

Obtaining a gambling license typically takes 3 to 6 months, though this can vary by jurisdiction.

How to apply for an online Gambling License?

To get an online gambling license, pick a jurisdiction, register your company, and submit the required documents and fees. After background checks and audits, stay compliant to keep your license active.

How much is an online Gambling License?

The cost of an online gambling license depends on the jurisdiction. Prices typically range from $20,000 to over $100,000, based on regulatory fees and requirements.

What do you need to get a Gaming License?

To get a gaming license, you must register your business, prove financial stability, and ensure owners have clean records. A detailed business plan, AML/KYC policies, and responsible gaming measures are required, along with RNG-certified games and secure hosting. Licensing fees, taxes, and ongoing compliance audits are also part of the process.

How to get/obtain a Gambling License?

To obtain a gambling license, you first need to choose the right jurisdiction and register your business there. The process includes submitting the key documents, and paying application and regulatory fees before undergoing a full compliance review and audit. Once approved, operators must maintain ongoing compliance to keep their license active and in good standing.

What is a Gaming License?

A gambling license is an official approval from a regulatory authority that allows a business to legally operate casinos, sports betting, poker, lotteries, or bingo within a specific country or across multiple countries.

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Navigating the gaming license process can be complex. Here’s a streamlined guide to each step

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Other licenses

Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste launched its online gambling market in April 2025. The IGJ license offers Malta-style standards, low costs, and global access—ideal for casinos, sportsbooks, and iGaming startups.

Georgia

Secure your Georgia Gambling License easily. My Gaming License provides detailed support on licensing requirements, costs, and legal benefits for your gaming platform.

Panama

Secure your Panama Gambling License easily. My Gaming License provides detailed support on licensing requirements, costs, and legal benefits for your gaming platform.

Uzbekistan

Secure your Uzbekistan Gambling License easily. My Gaming License provides detailed support on licensing requirements, costs, and legal benefits for your gaming platform.

United Kingdom

Secure your United Kingdom Gambling License easily. My Gaming License provides detailed support on licensing requirements, costs, and legal benefits for your gaming platform.

Temporary

Secure your Temporary Gambling License easily. My Gaming License provides detailed support on licensing requirements, costs, and legal benefits for your gaming platform.