Gaming License in Romania

Romania, nestled in the heart of Eastern Europe, is not only a land of rich history and stunning landscapes but also a burgeoning hub in the global gaming industry. The National Gambling Office (Oficiul Național pentru Jocuri de Noroc – ONJN) serves as the regulatory authority overseeing the gaming sector. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the crucial aspects of getting a gaming license in Romania, from the prerequisites and the array of license categories to the merits, the registration process, the services available, taxation considerations, and the associated costs.

Romania Gaming License Requirements

Before embarking on the journey to secure a gaming license in Romania, it is paramount to understand the prerequisites. The ONJN enforces stringent standards to ensure that licensees maintain the integrity and credibility of the gaming industry. Key requirements for applicants include:

• Corporate Establishment: Applicants must establish a legal entity in Romania to conduct their gaming operations.
• Financial Stability: Demonstrating financial stability is imperative, and applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funds to operate a gaming company effectively.
• Clean Background Checks: Background checks are conducted on all key personnel, including directors, shareholders, and officers, to ascertain their suitability.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Applicants must adhere to all pertinent regulatory standards and demonstrate their commitment to responsible gaming.

Types of Gaming License in Romania

Romania offers a range of gaming licenses to accommodate various gaming activities, including:

• Class I License: This license covers betting activities.
• Class II License: For operators offering remote gambling services, including online casinos and betting.
• Class III License: Operators providing gaming activities, such as poker and other games of chance.
• Class IV License: Covers activities related to manufacturing and distributing gaming equipment.

Advantages of Gaming License in Romania

Obtaining a gaming license in Romania presents numerous advantages:

• Regulatory Credibility: Romania’s gaming licenses are recognized both locally and internationally, providing credibility and trustworthiness to operators.
• Access to a Lucrative Market: Romania’s gaming market is vibrant and growing, offering operators access to a considerable player base.
• Regulatory Expertise: The ONJN is known for its regulatory expertise, ensuring the highest standards of fairness and integrity in gaming.

Procedure for Obtaining a Gaming License in Romania

Getting a gaming license in Romania involves several key steps:

• Application Preparation: Applicants must prepare a comprehensive application, including business plans and financial information, and submit it to the ONJN.
• Due Diligence Checks: Background checks are conducted on the applicant, key personnel, and shareholders to assess their suitability and integrity.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Applicants must meet stringent regulatory standards and demonstrate their commitment to responsible gaming.
• License Approval: Once all requirements are met, and the application is approved, the gaming license is issued, allowing operators to legally conduct gaming activities in Romania.

What is Included in Our Services

Professional service providers specialize in assisting firms in securing a gaming license for sale in Romania. These services typically include:

Legal and Regulatory Consultation

Professional service providers bring to the table expert knowledge of the legal and regulatory landscape governing the gaming industry in Romania. They provide invaluable guidance to businesses seeking to secure a gaming license. This consultation spans a wide array of crucial topics, including:

• Interpretation of Romanian gaming laws and regulations.
• Advising on the type of gaming license that best suits the operator’s intended activities.
• Assessing compliance requirements and strategies to meet them.
• Offering insights into responsible gaming standards and best practices.
• Advising on changes and updates to gaming regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.

This consultative aspect of the service is instrumental in helping operators develop a deep understanding of the legal framework within which they will operate and make informed decisions throughout the licensing process.

Application Assistance

The application process for a gaming license in Romania is highly detailed and requires meticulous attention to documentation, procedural accuracy, and adherence to strict timelines. Professional service providers offer hands-on support in preparing and submitting the application to the ONJN. This includes:

• Compilation of all necessary documentation, including financial statements, business plans, and corporate structure details.
• Ensuring that the application aligns with the specific requirements set by the ONJN for the chosen license type.
• Managing the submission process, tracking registration status, and addressing any queries or requests for further information from the ONJN.

This service is pivotal in streamlining the application process, reducing the risk of errors, and expediting the time it takes to obtain a gaming license.

Compliance Services

Compliance with Romanian gaming regulations is an ongoing commitment. Professional service providers offer ongoing support to ensure that the online gambling operation remains in compliance with the ever-evolving landscape of gaming regulations. This includes:

• Regular assessments of the operator’s adherence to regulatory standards.
• Assistance in implementing and maintaining responsible gaming measures.
• Updates and guidance on any changes or amendments to gaming regulations that impact the operation.

Taxation of Gaming Companies in Romania

When venturing into the gaming industry in Romania, one of the critical factors to consider is the taxation framework. The taxation structure for gaming firms in this Eastern European nation is multifaceted and can have a significant impact on the overall financial health of operators. 

Turnover Taxes

Turnover taxes, also known as gross gaming revenue (GGR) taxes, are a fundamental component of the taxation structure for gaming companies in Romania. These taxes are calculated based on the operator’s total revenue from gaming activities. The specific rate at which GGR taxes are levied may vary depending on the type of gaming activity and can range from 0% to 25%.

For instance, betting activities are generally subject to a GGR tax rate of 5%, while other gaming activities, such as casino games and slot machines, may be taxed at varying rates. This turnover tax is typically applied as a percentage of the operator’s revenue, serving as a primary source of revenue for the Romanian government.

Licensing Fees

In addition to turnover taxes, gaming firms are required to pay licensing fees. These fees are associated with obtaining and maintaining a gaming license from the National Gambling Office (Oficiul Național pentru Jocuri de Noroc – ONJN). Licensing fees can vary depending on the type of license and the scope of gaming activities the operator intends to offer. The ONJN sets these fees, and they are typically paid annually.

Fixed Monthly Fees

In specific cases, gaming operators may be subject to fixed monthly fees based on the number of gaming terminals they operate. These fees apply mainly to operators running land-based establishments that offer gaming services, such as casinos and betting shops. The number of gaming terminals and the fixed monthly fee structure can vary, and it is essential for operators to be aware of these costs as part of their financial planning.

How Much Does a Gaming License in Romania Cost

The price associated with obtaining a gaming license for sale in Romania can vary depending on the type of license, the scope of the gaming operation, and other specific requirements. Operators are advised to consult with the ONJN or professional service providers for precise price estimates tailored to their individual needs.