Obtaining a Gaming License in Cyprus in 2025
Cyprus, situated at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa, continues to serve as a strategic location for businesses aiming to access multiple markets. As a European Union Member State, Cyprus benefits from harmonised regulatory standards and offers access to the broader European Economic Area.
In recent years, Cyprus has established itself as a credible and attractive jurisdiction for gaming and betting operations. The country’s dual regulatory framework – with the Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Commission (CGC) overseeing land-based gaming and the National Betting Authority (NBA) regulating betting activities, including online – provides a mature and robust foundation for prospective operators.
In this article, the SALVUS Gaming Services Licensing team outlines the updated requirements and procedures for obtaining a gaming license in Cyprus in 2025, focusing on:
1. Why obtain a Gaming License in Cyprus?
2. Gaming License Types & Features
3. Application Requirements
4. How can SALVUS support your NBA application?
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1. Why obtain a Gaming License in Cyprus?
Cyprus offers a compelling combination of regulatory certainty, tax efficiency, and operational accessibility, making it one of the most favourable jurisdictions within the EU for betting and gaming firms.
As a jurisdiction, Cyprus enjoys membership in prominent international organisations such as the European Union, Eurozone, Council of Europe, United Nations, World Trade Organization, and British Commonwealth. This membership reflects its adherence to international norms and creates an environment of trust for operators and players alike.
Key advantages of establishing your gaming business in Cyprus include:
- Access to the EU market and regulatory alignment with European directives.
- Attractive tax regime, including a 12.5% corporate tax rate and applicable relief measures.
- Cost-efficient setup, with relatively low operational and staffing costs.
- A skilled, multilingual workforce, particularly in technology and compliance sectors.
- Political and economic stability, supporting long-term business growth.
- Supportive regulatory environment, promoting innovation and compliance simultaneously.
The Cypriot authorities – including the CGC and NBA – have consistently developed frameworks that balance responsible gaming with business viability, making Cyprus a forward-looking jurisdiction for gaming operators.
2. Gaming License Types & Features
Under the Betting Law of 2012 (as amended), the National Betting Authority issues two primary license types for betting operators:
| Features | Class A License | Class B License |
|---|---|---|
| Activity Type | Land-based betting services | Online betting and exchange betting |
| Applicable for | Sports betting | Online betting and non-traditional formats (e.g., virtuals) |
| Excluded Activities | Horse Racing | Slot machines, lotteries, online casinos |
| Minimum Regulatory Capital | EUR 500,000 | EUR 500,000 |
| Application Timeframe | Approx. 2–3 months | Approx. 2–3 months |
| Issuance Fees | EUR 30,000 (1 year) / EUR 45,000 (2 years) | EUR 30,000 (1 year) / EUR 45,000 (2 years) |
Note: All license applications must be submitted through a Cypriot-registerred entity.
Contact us at info@salvusfunds.com for tailored advice on your Cyprus Gaming License application or for exploring opportunities in other regulated markets.
3. Application Requirements
To secure a Class A or Class B license, applicants must satisfy a comprehensive set of legal, operational, and financial requirements, including:
- Establishment of a Cypriot legal entity or registered branch.
- The applicant must hold a required percentage of shares in a Cypriot entity
- The company’s primary activity must be betting-related.
- For foreign operators, a partnership with a Cypriot entity may be considered.
- Deposit guarantee of EUR 550,000 with a commercial EU bank or Cypriot institution, upon license receipt.
- Demonstration of financial soundness, ensuring player protection and operational resilience.
- Deployment of a secure, compliant betting transaction management system.
- Full adherence to the Betting Law of 2012, particularly regarding responsible gaming and consumer protection.
Additional restrictions apply to natural persons under the age of 25 and those with prior criminal convictions relating to betting or gaming. In cases where an application is rejected, 75% of the fees are refunded, a policy rarely found in other EU jurisdictions.
Licenses are valid for 1 or 2 years and may be renewed or extended, subject to compliance.
4. How can SALVUS support your NBA application?
At SALVUS, we combine regulatory insight with practical experience to guide clients through the end-to-end licensing process with the NBA.
Our Gaming Services Licensing team offers:
- Strategic structuring of the license application, aligned with your commercial goals.
- Preparation of all regulatory documents, including policies and procedures.
- Liaison with NBA and legal entities, facilitating timely and compliant submissions.
- Post-licensing support, ensuring your operations remain aligned with evolving requirements.
With deep familiarity in the regulatory expectations of both the NBA and CGC, SALVUS remains a trusted partner for gaming firms seeking to establish or expand their presence in Cyprus or other jurisdictions.
Contact us at info@salvusfunds.com for tailored advice on your Cyprus Gaming License application or for exploring opportunities in other regulated markets.
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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.