Obtaining a Gaming License in Curaçao in 2024
In 2024, obtaining a gaming license in Curaçao represents a strategic move for online gambling operators seeking to establish a reputable and legally compliant presence in the industry. Curaçao, a Caribbean island renowned for its progressive stance on gaming regulation, has evolved into a pivotal jurisdiction for online gambling over the years. Since the foundation of the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) in 1999, Curaçao has continuously adapted its regulatory framework to meet the dynamic demands of the global gambling market.
Following that, the Curaçao Internet Gaming Association (CIGA) entered into force in 2001. This evolution reflects the island’s commitment to fostering a secure and competitive environment for gaming operators, making it a significant hub for online gambling enterprises worldwide.
It is noteworthy that Curaçao’s governing legislation is the National Ordinance Offshore Games of Hazard (NOOGH) and is currently under reform and modernization, transitioning to the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK). With the passage of the LOK, the Curaçao Gaming Control Board will be replaced by the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA).
The SALVUS Gaming Services Licensing team is sharing through this article the key details of obtaining a Curaçao Gaming License, including the following:
1. Why obtain a Gaming License in Curaçao?
2. Types and Features of Gaming Licenses
3. Application Requirements
4. How can SALVUS assist your Curaçao GCB application?
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1. Why obtain a Gaming License in Curaçao?
The Dutch Caribbean Island of Curaçao presents numerous advantages, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors. The island offers a favorable tax regime with competitive corporate tax rates and specific incentives for international companies. These incentives include tax holidays and no withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties.
Acquiring a Gaming License is cost-effective and efficient, facilitated by a streamlined application process with no minimum capital requirements, allowing the quick start of operations. Curaçao boasts a stable and diversified economy, with key sectors including tourism, international finance, logistics, and trade.
Its strategic location in the Caribbean, near major shipping lanes, enhances connectivity to North and South America and Europe, while its deep-water port serves as a significant logistics and transshipment hub. The country’s business-friendly regulatory framework, based on Dutch law, ensures a reliable and transparent environment for operations.
Acquiring a Gaming License is cost-effective and efficient, allowing the quick start of operations. Additionally, Curaçao offers a highly skilled and multilingual workforce, along with reputable educational institutions. The island provides a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and a vibrant international community.
Curaçao’s membership in international organizations and its well-developed financial services sector support global trade relations and international banking activities. Lastly, the island’s advanced telecommunications infrastructure supports digital and tech-based businesses, making Curaçao an ideal location for establishing and growing a business.
2. Types and Features of Gaming Licenses
The gaming sector in Curaçao is governed by two principal licenses, the Master License and the Sub-License. Below is a detailed comparison of the two main types of gaming licenses available in Curaçao, highlighting their key features and distinctions along with the license application timeframe.
| Type of License | Features | Business Activity | Application Fee (LOK) | Application Timeframme |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master License | • Primary License • Holder of Master License can also issue Sub-License to other operators • Master license holders are responsible for ensuring that sub license holders comply with regulations and maintain fair and legal operation of gaming services. | • Sports betting • Casino games (slots, table games, etc.) • Poker • Lottery • Bingo • Affiliate Marketing • Master License holders can run their own gaming operations or provide platform services to sub-licensees. | 9,000 ANG | 8 weeks |
| Sub-License | • Allows the holder to conduct online gaming activities under the framework and oversight of the Master License holder | The following services are provided under the regulatory umbrella of the Master License holder: • Sports betting • Casino games (slots, table games, etc.) • Poker • Lottery • Bingo • Affiliate Marketing | 9,000 ANG | 8 weeks |
Under LOK, there is an additional one-off fee for Due Diligence between 250 ANG and 500 ANG per person, depending on their role.
Contact us at info@salvusfunds.com if you are interested in obtaining a Gaming License in Curaçao or any other jurisdiction; our SALVUS Gaming Services Licensing team is ready to answer your questions.
3. Application Requirements
Securing a gaming license in Curaçao involves several human regulatory requirements designed to ensure the responsible management and operation of the entity. These requirements emphasize the need for individuals in key roles to oversee compliance and maintain local presence, including:
- At least one shareholder,
- A local point of contact for business correspondence who must reside in Curacao,
- At least one Director who must reside in Curacao,
- Compliance Officer.
In addition to human regulatory requirements, a gaming license in Curaçao necessitates compliance with several technical regulatory requirements. These requirements focus on the structural and procedural aspects of the gaming operation:
- Company Incorporation,
- Business plan of at least 3-year forecast,
- Proof of domain ownership,
- Physical Office,
- Accounting Audit,
- AML and KYC policies,
- Payment processing procedures,
- Certified Gaming Software.
4. How can SALVUS assist your Curaçao GCB application?
The SALVUS Gaming Services Licensing team employs a customized project management approach, recognizing the unique aspects of each licensing endeavor. Our experts work closely with clients and their teams to prepare a comprehensive and robust application package, ensuring a smooth interaction with the regulator. By understanding your business vision and objectives, we provide a carefully curated selection of license types aligned with your business plan.
We ensure that your application to the GCB is thorough and well-prepared, fulfilling all regulatory requirements for a successful launch of operations. Leveraging our deep understanding of Curaçao’s financial regulations, we are a leading choice for companies seeking to achieve regulatory compliance.
Due to the fact that Curaçao’s licensing framework is under reform, the above information is subject to change. Contact us at info@salvusfunds.com if you are interested in obtaining a Gaming License in Curaçao or any other jurisdiction.
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The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only. You should always seek professional advice suitable to your needs.
