Curaçao iGaming License: requirements, application process and advantages

Curaçao is a powerhouse when it comes to online gambling and other business sectors. Obtaining a Curaçao iGaming license, therefore, might bring great opportunities for iGaming operators.

However, the country’s government recently changed the processes for operators to obtain an iGaming license. In this article, we will guide through its current requirements, the application process, fees and taxes, and the advantages associated with having a license.

Curaçao iGaming License: a summary

Before going into the details of the Curaçao iGaming License, here’s a brief summary of what you need to know:

• Curaçao now has a simplified licensing structure: the country no longer has master and sub-licenses; currently there are just two types of licenses covering all major online gambling activities: B2B and B2C.
• Curaçao has a centralized authority: all matters related to licensing and compliance are managed by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (CGCB).
• The application process became easier: applicants can submit their applications through an online portal.
• Licenses are valid for one year: operators, however, should keep an eye out for potential revocations or changes in legislation.
• The license authorizes the provision of remote gambling services.

Overview of Curaçao

Curaçao is a small Caribbean island that has an area of just 444 km² and a population of 160 thousand people. It is nestled within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located about 65 km to the north of Venezuela. Due to its favorable tax conditions, the country is considered by many to be a business heaven.

In 1993, Curaçao first issued its National Offshore Gambling Decree, which marked the country’s foray into the gambling field. Until 2023, there were two types of Curaçao iGaming licenses: a master license and a sub-license. The Ministry of Justice of Curaçao issued the master license, it was valid for five years and covered a range of gambling activities. It also allowed holders to sub-license others.

In 2023, however, this system was discontinued and the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) introduced a new format.

Curaçao iGaming License in 2024

As of 2024, there are two main types of Curaçao iGaming licenses: B2B, which are for service providers catering to businesses, and B2C, which are for those interacting directly with players. Operators that want to get a license will have to spend an estimated minimum amount of EUR 55,000. 

B2B licenses are suited for game developers or software vendors, which provide  services to other companies in the iGaming industry. B2C licenses, on the other hand, continue to regulate traditional iGaming, such as classic casino games, lotteries, bingo and sports betting under the updated Curaçao framework.

It is also worth pointing out that existing holders of Curaçao sub-licenses have an interim period within which they can switch to the new license category.

The new regulations will have more emphasis on:

• Responsible gambling.
• Higher standards for financial stability.
• Mandatory local presence with an office.
• Enhanced player protection and increased transparency.

These changes seek to enhance players’ trust in iGaming, which can potentially broaden the market for operators. A survey revealed that 60% of experts think these changes might somewhat affect Curaçao’s popularity, while about 30% believe there will be no impact on its already established appeal. Around 4% foresee an increase in credibility and popularity over time.

Curaçao iGaming Timeline

• July 2023: the Ministry of Finance reveals plans for Curaçao’s new licensing regime – all master licenses have an additional year to ensure a trouble-free transition​​.
• November 2023: the application process for the National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard (NOOGH) master license begins.
• April 2024: entities with NOOGH sub-licenses must begin a phased switch within a nine-month window, while others have a shorter span of three months to adapt​​.
• September 2024: deadline for LOK exemptions, signaling the end of the master license tradition in Curaçao.

Advantages of having a Curaçao iGaming license

Despite the recent changes in the Curaçao regulations, obtaining a license in the country comes with several advantages. The main ones are:

• Recognition: the Curaçao iGaming license is one of the most visible and sought-after international licenses. Its established reputation can act like a seal of approval and increase trust with players and partners.
• Broad Market Coverage: The Curaçao iGaming license is global and operates under the maxim ‘what is not explicitly prohibited is permitted’. This approach grants licensees substantial leeway in terms of market selection and operational freedom.
• Cryptocurrencies: the Curaçao iGaming license accommodates the use of cryptocurrencies, which offers speed, flexibility, independence, and anonymity for players.
• All-Inclusive Permission: operators have the liberty to offer a wide array of gambling activities under one umbrella license, from slots and lotteries to live games and bingo.

How to apply

To apply for a Curaçao iGaming license, a company must have:

• Registered presence within Curaçao.
• Local representative on hand.
• Detailed description of the provided games.
• Clearly outlined website Terms of Use.
• Сonfirmation of the domain ownership.
• At least one physical company server within the jurisdiction.
• Implementation of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures for each player.
• Thorough technical audit of each gaming system, including its software.
• Game content certification, specifically the Random Number Generator (RNG) certificate.
• Denial to registration to individuals under 18, US residents, and those from the Dutch Antilles.

The set of documents needed may vary, but the basics include:

• Notarised passport copies (photo and signature pages).
• Certificate confirming a clean criminal record.
• Address verification documents. e.g. original utility bill.
• CV or resume for key executives and compliance officers.
• Essential documentation (Terms of Service, etc.).

To apply for a license, companies must download and fill out the following three forms digitally:

• The Online Gaming Application Form.
• The Business and Corporate Information Form.
• The Personal History Disclosure Form.

The next step is to upload the required documents to the portal. Afterwards, the review of the documents takes about two months. If successful, the company receives a license to operate under Curaçao’s jurisdiction for a year.

In December 2023, the Finance Minister of Curaçao unveiled the new Curaçao gaming license cost. The charges specific to the new LBH system can come to a total of EUR 63,000. The total fees, under LOK, are about EUR 55,000.In conclusion, a Curaçao iGaming license can broaden a company’s geographic reach and increase trust with players and partners. However, it’s important to keep a close watch on communications from the CGA and stay updated on the latest developments, which are likely to be frequent in the near future.