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5 Best Jurisdictions for Gaming License

Published:
May 31, 2023

The global gaming market was estimated at $231.34 billion in the last year, and it is anticipated to reach a value of $353.35 billion over the next five years, registering a CAGR of 6.96% during the forecast period. As the industry grows at an unprecedented rate, this is the right time to join the profitable gaming industry. Below is a list of the top five countries that offer the most attractive licensing mechanisms for iGaming operators. From low taxation to minimal red tape, these states provide many advantages for gaming firms. Read on to find out the best places worldwide to obtain your iGambling permit.

Malta and Costa Rica

When it comes to iGambling business, two of the top locations are Malta and Costa Rica.

Malta has been a pioneer in overseeing iGaming and has well-developed licensing mechanisms. Obtaining permission allows you to operate in the Maltese market as well as other EU member-states. The authorization mechanism is relatively straightforward but does necessitate a physical presence in Malta. The state fees for the license are also very reasonable, ranging from €25,000 to €35,000 per year.

Costa Rica has been authorizing iGambling operations since the 1990s. Its permit is a sought-after, budget-friendly opportunity for small to mid-size operators. The procedure of getting authorized is simple and can be completed remotely without needing to establish a physical office in Costa Rica. License fees are also very affordable, starting at around €10,000 per year.

While Malta may be better for larger operators wanting to target EU markets, Costa Rica is ideal for smaller firms on a budget. Both states offer low tax rates, reputable regulators, and a well-established legal framework.

Some peculiarities to take into consideration with Malta and Costa Rica:

  1. Malta is an EU state so a license allows operating in the EU, but Costa Rica is not so you’re limited to certain markets.
  2. Malta has stricter requirements like a physical office and higher license fees, while Costa Rica has a simpler authorization process and reduced fees.
  3. Malta taxes gaming revenue at around 5% but Costa Rica has no taxes on gaming profits.
  4. Malta is a more prestigious state but Costa Rica is still a popular, budget-friendly choice, mostly for new startups.

Isle of Man

The Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) is the regulator that is in charge of the regulation of games of chance within the state. They authorize casinos, sportsbooks, poker rooms, bingo halls, and more. The authorization mechanism is transparent, and the GSC aims to make decisions within 4 to 6 months.

Once approved, licensees benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate and no restrictions on the movement of funds. The Isle of Man is also not part of the UK or the EU, so operators do not fall into their legislation. However, the GSC license is well-regarded and allows licensees to carry out their activities in many regulated markets.

The GSC regularly updates its rules and acts to keep up with changes in tech and industry standards. They focus on customer protection, fraud prevention, and Safer Gambling. Operators must implement policies like self-exclusion, deposit limits, and use age gate to maintain their licenses. Many major industry players like Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, and PokerStars have set up their HQs there.

The Isle of Man should be included in your shortlist if you are in search of a top centre for gaming with an efficient regulatory process and favorable taxation policies. A GSC license allows access to players worldwide and ensures you operate with integrity.

Curacao

Curacao has been legalizing iGaming companies since 1996 and over 500 operators now hold their statuses of licensees. Some of the key aspects of acquiring a license in Curacao include:

  • Low licensing fees starting at around €20,000 per year.
  • A fast authorizing process that can take as little as 6-7 weeks.
  • No corporate tax on gaming profits. Curacao only charges a flat licensing fee.
  • No need to disclose ownership details.
  • Crypto-friendly laws.

The key downside is that a Curacao permit may carry less prestige than other states. Some players and payment processors prefer licenses from stricter regulators. However, for newcomers with small firms, a Curacao license can be the simplest route to launch your firm.

Kahnawake

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission has been approving iGaming sites since 1999. Approximately 300 operators now hold a license issued by this regulator. Some advantages of obtaining this permission are as follows:

  • A well-established regulatory body that is recognized globally. A Kahnawake license carries more prestige than some smaller states.
  • Competitive authorizing and renewal fees. Fees start around $10,000 EUR per year.
  • A relatively fast application process. Licenses can be obtained within 2-3 months.
  • No taxes on gaming revenue. The state only waves licensing and application fees.
  • Anonymity allowed.

Kahnawake’s regulations may be stricter than some other states. Operators must adhere to rules around Safer Gambling, payout ratio, and other compliancy terms. For established operators, the high status of a Kahnawake license can be worth the extra oversight. For startups, Curacao may be an easier entry point.

The bottom line

Any of these jurisdictions would be an excellent choice if you’re thinking about getting into the gambling field. They offer reduced tax rates, experienced regulators, and a well-developed legal basis for gaming firms. At the end of the day, you need to take into consideration the aspects of your business model and decide on what will allow you to operate legally and profitably. You can contact us and get legal advice regarding the formation of a gambling business in your chosen jurisdiction.

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