Obtaining a Gambling License in Curacao

Since 1996, Curaçao has been one of the most popular jurisdictions for online gambling licensing. Its advantageous conditions, transparent procedures, and liberal regulatory approach have made it a standard choice for gaming companies looking to expand globally.

Starting from 2024, regulation is managed by the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) according to the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK). This replaced the previous system, introducing direct B2C (operators dealing with players) and B2B licenses (service providers). These changes increased compliance, responsible gaming, and financial monitoring requirements, enhancing trust from international banks and payment providers.

Today, Curaçao hosts over 500 active operators from around the world, particularly attracting crypto casinos and betting companies due to officially permitted cryptocurrency transactions.

Discover more licensing options in our comprehensive catalog of international gaming licenses.

Advantages of a Curacao Gaming License

Curaçao remains one of the top jurisdictions globally for obtaining an online gambling license, due to its clear, straightforward, and favorable conditions. Key benefits include:

• Fast processing: Licenses typically issued within 6–8 weeks.
• Cost-effective application: Fees start from as low as EUR 4,600.
• Favorable taxation: Only 2% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) and 0% corporate tax.
• No minimum capital requirement: You can start operations without significant upfront investment.
• Flexible operational setup: A local office or registered agent in Curaçao meets regulatory requirements.
• Wide range of permitted activities: Includes online casinos, sports betting, poker rooms, bingo, and lotteries.
• Cryptocurrency-friendly jurisdiction: Officially supports and allows crypto-based gaming activities.
• Reliable regulatory oversight: Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) ensures international compliance and credibility.

Choosing a Curaçao gaming license positions your business effectively for rapid global market entry and operational flexibility, especially valuable for cryptocurrency-oriented casinos and betting operations.

Types of Curacao Gaming Licenses

The Curaçao jurisdiction offers two main types of gaming licenses: B2C and B2B. Understanding the differences between them is crucial, as each serves a distinct business purpose and comes with specific benefits and requirements.

B2C License – For Operators

A B2C license allows operators to run gambling platforms directly serving players. This includes online casinos, sports betting, poker rooms, bingo, and lottery services.

Advantages:

• Fast processing: License issued within 6–8 weeks
• Access to global gambling markets
• Permission to accept and process cryptocurrency transactions

Drawbacks:

• Requires local presence (either a registered agent or office in Curaçao)
• Higher overall costs compared to the previous Master/Sub-license system

B2B License – For Service Providers

A B2B license is intended for companies that provide gaming-related services, such as software development, platform hosting, or payment solutions. It does not permit direct interaction with players.

Advantages:

• Simplified compliance requirements compared to B2C
• Enables partnerships with global operators and platforms

Drawbacks:

License is limited to backend services; direct operation of gambling platforms is not allowed

Curacao Gaming License Requirements: What You Need to Apply

If you’re planning to launch an online gambling business and are considering Curaçao as your licensing jurisdiction, it’s important to understand the official Curacao gaming license requirements. Below is a breakdown of what’s needed to apply and operate legally.

Company Formation Requirements

To be eligible for a Curacao gambling license, your company must meet the following conditions:

• Registered Company in Curaçao: You must incorporate a legal entity locally.
• No Minimum Capital Requirement: Curaçao imposes no minimum share capital threshold.
• Foreign Ownership Allowed: Directors and shareholders can be 100% foreign nationals.
• Local Presence: You must appoint a registered agent or maintain a physical office in Curaçao.
• Gaming-Ready Bank Account: A corporate bank account supporting gaming transactions is required.

Documents Required for Curaçao Gambling License

To meet the documentation requirements for a Curaçao eGaming license, you’ll need:

• Certificate of incorporation and Articles of Association
• Notarized passports and proof of address for all directors and shareholders
• A professional business plan with financial projections and marketing strategy
• AML/KYC policies and Responsible Gaming procedures, aligned with international standards
• Platform description including RNG certification, list of software/game providers
• Recent (within 3 months) bank statement to prove financial viability
• Proof of ownership for the domain and website associated with your gambling operation

How to Get a Curaçao Gaming License: Step-by-Step Process

The Curaçao gaming license process is one of the fastest and most efficient in the iGaming industry. Below are the 5 essential steps to obtain your license under the latest 2024 regulatory framework:

Step 1

Consultation & Planning (3–5 Days)

Our experts assess your business model, help you choose between a B2C or B2B license, and provide a full checklist of required documents.

Step 2

Company Registration in Curaçao (7–10 Days)

We handle company incorporation, set up a corporate bank account that supports gambling transactions, and appoint a registered agent in Curaçao.

Step 3

Document Preparation & Submission (5–7 Days)

We compile a full compliance package including your business plan, AML/KYC policies, technical documentation, and submit your application via the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) online portal.

Step 4

Regulatory Review (4–6 Weeks)

CGA conducts a thorough audit of submitted documents, verifies the background of directors and beneficiaries, and evaluates the technical infrastructure of your platform.

Step 5

License Issuance (1–2 Days)

Upon approval, you will receive your official Curaçao eGaming license electronically—enabling you to launch operations immediately.

Curaçao Gaming License: Taxes, AML & Technical Requirements

Operating under a Curaçao gaming license offers significant tax advantages and a streamlined regulatory environment. However, all licensed operators must meet specific compliance, anti-money laundering (AML), and technical requirements to ensure legal and responsible business practices.

Tax Conditions

• GGR Tax: 2% on Gross Gaming Revenue
• Corporate Tax: 0% if operations are conducted outside Curaçao
• Other Taxes: None applicable under the current structure

These favorable terms make Curaçao one of the most cost-efficient jurisdictions for online gaming operations.

AML/KYC Compliance Requirements

All Curaçao license holders must implement a robust anti-money laundering and Know Your Customer (AML/KYC) framework, which includes:

• Verifying customer identity and address
• Monitoring transactions for suspicious activity
• Reporting irregularities and complying with FATF international standards

Responsible Gaming Obligations

To comply with Curaçao responsible gambling regulations, operators must provide: player self-exclusion and limit-setting options, warnings and educational materials on gambling risks, access to support services for problem gambling.

Technical Requirements for Gaming Platforms

To meet Curaçao license technical standards, your platform must include:

• RNG (Random Number Generator) certification
• SSL encryption to secure financial and personal data
• A proven data protection system for user privacy
• Independent platform audits conducted regularly
• A clear dispute resolution process and responsive player support system

FAQ: Curaçao Gaming License

How long does it take to get a Curaçao gaming license?
The standard timeframe to obtain a Curaçao license is approximately 6 to 8 weeks after submitting all required documents.

What is the tax rate for Curaçao gambling operators?
Curaçao applies a 2% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) and 0% corporate tax for offshore operations.

Is a local director or office required in Curaçao?
No. The company can be entirely foreign-owned. A registered agent or virtual office in Curaçao is sufficient.

Does the Curaçao license allow cryptocurrency gambling?
Yes. Curaçao officially permits gambling operators to accept and process cryptocurrencies.

What documents are required to apply for a Curaçao gaming license?
You’ll need company registration documents, directors’ passports, a business plan, AML/KYC policies, technical platform documentation, and a recent bank statement.

What types of gambling activities are allowed under the Curaçao license?
The license covers online casinos, sports betting, poker, lotteries, bingo, and crypto-based gambling platforms.

Curacao iGaming Consultant

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Vladyslav Lymanskyi

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