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Online Gambling License & iGaming License Services by InteliumLaw

Inteliumlaw » Online Gambling License & iGaming License Services by InteliumLaw
Gambling Lawyers

We offer professional support for online gambling businesses led by experienced gambling specialists. Our services encompass advising on business incorporation and maintenance, structuring gambling company activities, drafting and reviewing various gambling-related agreements, and formulating website policies such as Terms & Conditions, AML policy, Privacy policy, etc. Additionally, our expert legal consultants assist in other online gaming license services including but not limited to developing business plans, obtaining online gambling license in specific jurisdictions, and resolving other legal issues as requested by our clients.

At Inteliumlaw, we collaborate with gambling software development companies, providers of gaming systems and technologies, gambling resellers, distributors, gaming aggregators, operators, and white-label businesses within the gambling sphere.

Below we provide for your attention a guide on how to get an online casino license , and other igaming license related explanations that might be helpful for your business.

What is a Gaming License?

When starting your gambling business you might for sure consider the following question “what is a gaming license” , “What is a gaming license for a casino?”, “Do I need gaming license for my project?”, “How online gaming license can help me?” Let’s discuss these questions here. A gaming license is a legal permit issued by regulatory authorities, granting authorization for gambling technology providers, operators and sometimes other participants of gambling market (e.g. related services providers) to engage in gambling activities within a specific jurisdiction or jurisdictions. It functions as a validation of compliance with the stringent regulations and guidelines established by the licensing authority. It ensures that gambling establishments function in line with the applicable law, maintaining fairness, security, and responsible gaming practices.

iGaming licenses are of a high importance for gambling businesses. They show business compliance with the law, provide players and partners with a level of trust to casino, technology provider or other market participants – holder of the gaming licenses.

Gaming licenses are a kind of guarantor that things are transparent and fair, protecting both the players and the industry itself. However, getting a gaming license isn’t an easy process. You will need to go through several checks and tests including technical, personal and legal compliance reviews. Thus, it is recommended to engage professionals that can assist you through the all stages.

Who is Required to Obtain an Online Gaming License?

Online gaming licenses are required for businesses that operate casinos or doing online gambling otherwise. These businesses could cover all aspects, including technology, customer service, financial management, website maintenance, etc. or only part of them. Governments have tight regulations about who can run these firms because gambling can be dangerous. However, online casino licenses are not only required by gaming firms; other parties and companies involved also require them.

Not only do the companies that run casinos and online gambling need special igaming license, but so do other businesses involved in the gambling industry. These permits make sure that everything operates fairly and safely.

An online gambling license sets rules for gambling businesses to stay legal and fair, protecting players and the industry's reputation. It involves strict screening, compliance checks, and a commitment to responsible gaming.

The diverse range of participants in the gambling industry emphasizes the need for comprehensive regulatory oversight, safeguarding not only the interests of the players but also preserving the credibility and trustworthiness of the industry as a whole.

Advantages of Obtaining an Online Gambling License

Once you realize “What is a gaming license?” you will of course would wish to know what benefits it could add to your gaming project. Acquiring an online gambling license brings forth a multitude of advantages that go beyond mere legality. Here are several key benefits:

  • Rule of Operation Assurance. The foremost advantage is the assurance of operating within regulated parameters, complying with established rules and standards. This compliance ensures that your gambling enterprise functions legitimately and ethically. You have rules to follow and till you adhere to them you are on a safe side from a legal standpoint.
  • Legal Protection. A licensed gambling operation enjoys the protection of the state in the event of disputes or legal issues. This not only safeguards your business but also reassures stakeholders of a legal recourse in case of conflicts. In case of any claims, you will have a regulation to argue against them that is very helpful for your legal risk management.
  • Business Partner Acceptance. An official license boosts your credibility and builds trust with partners, including software providers and financial institutions, by showing your commitment to regulatory standards.
  • Player Trust and Recognition. A licensed gambling platform inspires trust and confidence among players. It serves as a hallmark of integrity, assuring players that the gaming establishment operates ethically, thus enhancing customer loyalty and trust.
  • Recognition by Financial Institutions. Licensing ensures recognition and acceptance by payment institutions, simplifying financial transactions and collaborations with banking partners. This facilitates seamless payment processing, a vital aspect of a smooth gambling operation. Not licensed gambling entities will hardly be able to have fiat payment methods for their online casinos.
  • Mitigation against Criminal Suspicions. Being licensed guards your establishment against suspicions of involvement in criminal activities. It demonstrates adherence to stringent regulations, deterring potential illicit activities and ensuring a secure gambling environment.
  • Players protection. Compliance with regulations assists in preventing underage gambling. This demonstrates a commitment to responsible gaming practices.
  • Marketing Opportunities. A gaming license enhances marketing campaigns by providing a trustworthy endorsement, attracting a wider audience, and potentially generating additional revenue streams.
  • Access to New Markets. Online gambling licenses often allow access to new markets that might otherwise be restricted, expanding the reach and potential customer base of the gambling enterprise.
  • Regulatory Support and Updates. Regulatory bodies provide licensed gaming establishments with continuous assistance and updates, guaranteeing compliance with changing industry norms and legislative mandates.
  • Enhanced Brand Reputation. An igaming license bolsters brand reputation, positioning the gambling platform as a trustworthy and reliable entity, thus attracting both players and potential investors.
  • Operational Transparency. To meet licensing requirements, businesses must be transparent about their operations, so stakeholders, regulators, and players can see that gambling activities are fair and secure.
  • Streamlined Business Processes. To get an online casino license, businesses often need robust procedures, which improve efficiency and reduce risk.
  • Investor Confidence. A licensed gambling enterprise tends to attract more investor confidence, potentially opening doors to funding opportunities for expansion and innovation.

Getting an online gambling license promotes sustainable growth and reputation in the gambling sector by fostering an atmosphere of trust, legitimacy, and responsible gaming practices, in addition to legal compliance.

Online Gaming License Types

The gaming industry does not offer a single online gaming license that is suitable for all players. The types of igaming licenses available vary substantially based on several factors, including the relevant jurisdictions. Also, there are online casino licenses that are valid regardless of the business's physical location. Numerous gambling establishments are served by this wide range of licenses.

Each classification holds unique regulatory obligations and specifications tailored to suit different aspects of the thriving gambling industry.

Let’s go through several online gaming license classifications.

Based on the Character of Activity:

  • Land-based: Pertains to physical gambling establishments.
  • Online: Includes online gambling platforms that are virtual.

Based on the Type of Activity:

  • Business-to-Business: Licenses for businesses providing services or products to other gambling entities.
  • Business-to-Consumer: Issued for businesses offering services directly to consumers.
  • White Label License: Allows entities to lease a fully supported product or service, rebrand it, and sell it as their own.
  • Gambling Business-to-Business Support Services: Licenses for services supporting gambling operations.

Based on the Type of Games:

  • Poker: online gambing license focused on player versus player gaming dynamics, ensures fairness and integrity in interactions between players.
  • Lottery and Bingo: addresses chance-based games, ensuring fairness in draws and gameplay.
  • Casino: includes igaming license for a range of games, such as slots, blackjack, and roulette, and guarantees honesty and compliance in a casino environment.
  • Betting: regulates wagering activities on sports events, races, or other outcomes, covers various aspects of betting practices and player protection measures.

By Territory Coverage:

  • International: Licenses from Curacao, Anjouan, Kahnawake, Malta, Estonia, and Gibraltar are a few examples of licenses that allow operations across several jurisdictions.
  • Local: Pertains to licenses within specific countries like Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, etc.

Based on the Arrangement:

  • Master License: Standard authorization for gambling operations.
  • Sub-license: Permits secondary licensing under an existing license holder.

Varied Licenses in Different Jurisdictions:

  • Isle of Man Network License: Allows partnerships with operators from other jurisdictions.
  • Malta Type 1-4 Licenses: Distinguish between chance-based and skill-based games, including casino-type games, sports betting, commission-based games, and skill-based games like fantasy sports.

Each license category carries specific regulatory requirements, catering to different aspects of gambling operations and catering to various game types and modes of operation within the gambling industry.

Gaming License Requirements and Rules

When answering the question “How to get a gambling license?” please consider the following. Each country has its own set of rules and requirements. There are of course common expectations from regulators, but the rules also might differ in each jurisdiction.

Please review the below list of gaming license requirements  that is important and usually common to obtain a gaming license in different jurisdictions:

  • Good Reputation: Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) and directors should have good business reputation, relevant experience in the gambling industry, and no criminal records – so called “gaming license background check”.
  • Clear and understandable Source of Funds: The confirmations of source of wealth should be provided. It is necessary to show how the funds to finance business were earned and the financial history of the involved key individuals
  • Developed Business Plan: Detailed business plan is important to show how the project will operate and grow and what are the expectations and projections.
  • Team: The organizational structure of the team involved as well as description of the functions of each member and their roles should be provided.
  • Certification of the platform and content: It is important to confirm that technology and games you plan to use are fair and within the global technical standards or specific standards of particular jurisdiction (if any)
  • AML and KYC Policies: Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies should be in place to confirm that the business will perform necessary checking
  • Paid Share Capital: certain jurisdictions may, among other, gambling license requirements, ask business to have a proper share capital to ensure a kind of a guarantee in case of any potential payments due to players or authorities.
  • Substance Requirements: Regulators may require keeping a proper presence in the jurisdiction of licensing like local directors, offices, compliance specialists, etc.
  • Readiness: The applicant should show readiness to comply with technology standards, implementing cybersecurity safeguards, and practicing responsible gaming.
  • Compliance with regulations: Your business should be in line with local regulatory requirements and rules
  • Transparency and Reporting: Commitment to transparent reporting and willingness to undergo regular audits and inspections by regulatory bodies to ensure continued compliance.
  • Local Partnerships or Representation: Some jurisdictions might establish among requirements for gaming license to have partnerships with local entities or representation within the jurisdiction.

Online Gambling License Cost Breakdown – How much is a Gambling License

Precise forecasting the total cost of online gambling license procedure is challenging due to different factors, including jurisdictional regulations, economic stability, and the scope of required services. Nevertheless, when choosing a jurisdiction to apply for a license and begin operating please take into account the following gaming license costs:

  1. Application Fees. Each jurisdiction sets up its own non-refundable application fees, which typically can be found on the official website of relevant licensing authority websites or in license regulations. Please note that this fee must be paid upfront and cannot be refunded, regardless of the outcome of the licensing process.
  2. Licensing fees. In order to be finally granted a license and receive correspondent license seal, each applicant is required to pay a licensing fee. Depending on jurisdiction, this fee could be due along with application fee or after initial review of application package.
  3. Annual Renewal Fees. Licensed entities – whether, operators, platform providers or software developers – are required to renew their licenses to continue operating legally. License renewal often is accomplished with submission of updated corporate documentation, proof of ongoing compliance and payment of renewal fee. Failure to renew could trigger license expiration and shifting a business to an illegal area.
  4. Regulatory Compliance Costs. Maintaining a valid license requires a responsible approach to continuous compliance with license conditions and applicable laws. Licensed entities must invest in:
  • Developing and updating internal compliance systems.
  • Conducting regular internal or third-party audits.
  • Monitoring regulatory changes and reacting swiftly to new requirements.

These ongoing obligations contribute significantly to the long-term cost of licensed operation.

  1. Corporate Costs. Building a new online gambling business typically involves setting up a company in the chosen jurisdiction and contributing to it certain asserts and capital. Most jurisdictions also require:
  • Substantial presence in the country.
  • Appointment of local directors or key personnel.

This challenge could be resolved through involvement of nominee directors or officers, but their price is signification diverse in different jurisdictions,

  1. Taxes and Levies. Any online gaming business will face specific tax obligations, which require maintaining compliance with:
  • Corporate income tax laws.
  • Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) levies rules.

Company formation is always accompanied by receiving a tax identification number and the business must be accountable as corporate taxpayer. Also, separate jurisdiction charges a certain percentage from gross gaming revenue.

  1. Operational Costs. Running an online gaming operation also involves standard business operational expenses, such as:
  • Integration and licensing of gaming software.
  • Payment processing and merchant account setup.
  • Hiring staff for customer support, compliance, and IT.

While application, licensing and license renewal fees as a general rule are relatively stable and publicly available, other expenses components – such as regulatory compliance, corporate services and operational items stack – depend on the chosen jurisdiction and local service providers’ rates.

You can find more regarding gambling license cost in our blog  

Here should be the link to How to chose best gambling license. The article should be placed in the blog as a priority.

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How Long Does it Take to Get a Gaming License?

General Timeline for Gaming License

Licensing process is complex and varies significantly depending on the jurisdiction and its specific licensing conditions and licensing authority scrutiny degree. In some jurisdictions, the process could be completed in just a few weeks. However, in more regulated countries, it may take up to 7 months due to more detailed and scrutinized documentation investigation and verification of application and accoupling documentation.

The timeline depends on the following factors, including, but not limited to:

  • The complexity of documents and application preparation.
  • The licensing authority’s due diligence.
  • The strictness of gambling laws and regulations.
  • Political, financial, and regulatory considerations.

Gaming License Application Process

Typically, the licensing process consists of four main stages of license issue common to most jurisdictions:

Prelicense stage.

During this stage we, along with your assistance, will make all necessary preparations to meet licensing conditions. It includes:

  • Assistance with formatting and organizing required documents.
  • Incorporation of your company, if needed, and structuring corporate documentation.
  • Preparing necessary documentation for compliance with licensing, AML/CTF, software and reporting requirements.

Based on submitted documents, we will fill in all required forms and license applications and deliver them for signature to your company’s key persons (UBO, shareholder, directors, compliance officer).

Gaming License Application submission stage

This stage consists of:

  • Submitting the application and paying the required application fees
  • Initial background checks of the applicant
  • Addressing any inconsistencies or verification issues raised by the licensing authorities.

Website/software audit stage. The licensing authorities audit your website/software on matter of full compliance with licensing conditions and applicable laws. During this stage we will work closely with you to quickly address any compliance issues and guide you during the audit process for successful completion of it.

Gaming License issue stage

In the final stage:

  • Your gaming license is officially issued.
  • We will advise you on where to place the licensing seal
  • At your request, we will provide you with assistance with maintaining compliant operations

Please take into account that these stages is a general description of licensing procedures, and these stages may vary slightly from country to country and could include additional steps.

Regulatory Review

Typically, the most time-consuming stage of the process is regulatory review of our application. During this stage the licensing authority analysis and estimate suitability of license application, applicant and its squad for holding a license.

  • The duration of these reviews depends on
  • The scrutiny of the licensing authority’s checks
  • The number of requests for additional information
  • The speed and quality of responses from our applicant’s side
  • Any newly required documentation packages

To minimize the risk of delays, we highly recommend dedicating sufficient time to prelicense stage for proper preparation of all documents and application forms.

Common Delays

The licensing timeline is often unpredictable, due to various factors that significantly influence the time frame necessary for consideration of gaming license application. Before starting the gambling license application process, we always try to find out more about your gambling project as we must consider the following factors influencing the potential rapidity of application progress:

  • Incomplete or delayed documentation. Failure to provide requested documents slows down the prelicense stage. Without accurate documentation, we cannot submit truthful and compete applications, which may lead to repeated information requests from licensing authority, and, consequently, major delays.
  • Use of new technologies and uncertified software. Use of new technologies, like blockchain solutions for game randomness and fairness, or uncertified software can lead to significant delays. Compliance with established fairness and randomness standards must be certified separately, which requires thorough preparation, technical adjustments, and considerable financial investment.
  • Licensing authority delays. All licensing applications are processed by people employed by licensing authority, who review and manage multiple applications at once. More regulated jurisdictions typically require those people to conduct deeper due diligence, which takes additional time.
  • Client-related delays. The faster you respond to our requests or to the licensing authority’s actions, the quicker we can move forward. Delays in communication or document submission from your side can significantly impact the overall timeline.

There could be any other factors that influence the rapidity of licensing process, but they are mostly tailored to respective jurisdiction. Regrding the timeline for each specific license - contact our team.

How Inteliumlaw’s Gaming License Management Service Can Help

InteliumLaw provides full-fledged assistance with a focus on obtaining gaming licenses  for online gambling. Among other, our gaming license services include:

  • Gambling Project Analysis: Performing a detailed analysis of the gambling project, assessment of all important aspects, including scope, objectives, and regulatory compliance.
  • Selection of Jurisdiction: We can help with choosing the most suitable and favorable jurisdiction for licensing of your business.
  • Collection of Necessary Documents: Assisting in gathering of required documents for application.
  • Drafting of Business Plans and Policy: Assisting with preparation of business plans, terms and conditions, AML and responsible gambling, other policies that might be requested.
  • Legal Consultancy: Offering legal advice and experience tailored to the gaming sector, making sure that regulations and compliance requirements are followed.
  • Licensing Process Assistance: Guiding clients through the complex gambling licensing process, offering step-by-step assistance and ensuring compliance at every stage.
  • Payment Solutions Integration: Utilizing our network of industry connections to enable the integration of payment solutions.
  • KYC Solutions Integration: Assisting in the integration of Know Your Customer (KYC) solutions through established partnerships to meet regulatory requirements.
  • Gaming content and technology: Utilizing the direct contacts to direct consumers to trustworthy gaming content providers and aggregators, enabling access to vital gambling resources and technology.
  • Regulatory Updates: In order to preserve compliance, keeping clients updated on changes and updates pertaining to regulations affecting the gaming sector.
  • Risk Management Strategies: Providing direction and assistance in the execution of strong risk management plans suited to the gaming industry.
  • Data Protection Compliance: Helping to put in place strong data protection procedures that comply with legal and industry standards.
  • Ongoing gaming license management: Support with gaming license renewal, adding or removal of domains, communication with regulator, assistance with solving of any ongoing issues with gaming license

Most Popular Jurisdictions for Obtaining an iGaming Licenses

Overview of popular jurisdiction for obtaining an Igaming Licenses is important prior to selecting the right solution for your business.

Below we provide brief description of several gambling licenses which is worth your 1 min read. More information on best gambling license you can find in our blog.

CURACAO GAMING LICENSE

Curacao online gaming licenses are popular due to their cost-effectiveness and relatively easy acquisition process. Historically issued via master licensors like Antillephone, Curacao E-gaming, and Gaming Curacao, these licenses suit all online gambling types (B2B and B2C). They allow global operations but restrict certain territories like the Netherlands, the USA, and others. Companies must register in Curacao and pass compliance checks. Online gambling license also offers preferential taxation benefits. The licensing regime there is currently in the process of changes there. You can find more information about recent changes in Curacao gambling license regulation in our blog. The authority to issue license has been transferred to Curacao Gaming Authority (recent name Curacao Gaming Control Board), requirements have become stricter and fees have increased. We can apply directly to this governmental authority and complete the process using the Gaming Portal. We are constantly monitoring changes. Stay with us to have updates on this matter and to ensure you apply under the correct procedure.

ISLE OF MAN GAMING LICENSE

The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission issues online casino licenses tailored to different business needs. They include primary licenses allowing gambling activities and technology provision, network licenses, and sub-licenses. Obtaining an Isle of Man online gaming license requires creating a local company and passing compliance checks. Igaming license is not territorially restricted and is esteemed for its liberal legislation and support for the gambling sector.

GIBRALTAR GAMING LICENSE

This British colony situated on the southern coast of Spain, is a highly esteemed center for virtual gambling enterprises. Businesses of all sizes may operate in a secure environment thanks to its stringent laws. An organization that possesses Gibraltar online gambling license is highly esteemed, as it attests to their compliance with industry standards

MALTA GAMING LICENSE

Maltese licenses under the jurisdiction of the Malta Gaming Regulatory Commission are highly regarded. There are B2B and B2C options, and each has four departments that oversee different types of games. Getting a Maltese license is a difficult process that necessitates strict adherence to legal guidelines.

Malta offers a fully open market to license holders, and benefits include an optimal tax regime and robust iGaming infrastructure.

ESTONIA GAMING LICENSE

Estonia, a Baltic nation in northern Europe, provides a structured licensing system that is especially helpful to new businesses. Estonia is widely recognized for its strong and clear regulatory framework. The jurisdiction offers a favorable environment for online gambling companies, with an emphasis on consumer protection.

GREAT BRITAIN GAMING LICENSE

The UK license includes personal management licenses in addition to several forms of online gaming. Although the procedure is expensive and complicated, it shows compliance to strict standards. Regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, online gaming licenses undergo rigorous scrutiny of their history, plans, policies, and personnel competencies. Holding a UK license garners trust from financial institutions, partners, and players due to the strict compliance rules.

OTHER JURISDICTIONS:

  • ANJOUAN GAMING LICENSE. Anjouan, which is a part of the Indian Oceanic Comoros archipelago, provides licenses appropriate for companies venturing into developing markets. The jurisdiction appeals to smaller enterprises because it offers rather simple igaming licensing However, due to different regulatory norms, its acceptance and recognition might differ from more established jurisdictions.
  • MOHELI GAMING LICENSE. For developing markets, Moheli, another Comoros Island, offers licensing opportunities. Like Anjouan, Moheli attracts startups with its easily accessible online gambling licensing The jurisdiction’s acceptance and recognition may not equal the legitimacy of more well-known licensing agencies, despite its generally simple regulations.
  • VANUATU GAMING LICENSE. Online gaming license structure appropriate for different kinds of online gambling enterprises is provided by the island nation of Vanuatu, which is located in the South Pacific Ocean. Vanuatu licenses are accessible to both new and established businesses, and their processes are renowned for being somewhat simple. Its unique regulatory framework may, however, make the jurisdiction less credible than more reputable licensing authorities.

Internet Gaming License FAQs

What happens if a gaming establishment operates without a valid egaming license?

Running a gaming business without a valid internet gaming license is illegal and can have serious consequences. Depending on where you are, this could lead to big fines, legal trouble, or even criminal charges. Authorities might shut down your business, impose heavy fines, and press charges. Also, not having casino gaming license can damage your business's reputation, causing players and partners to lose trust and potentially threatening your long-term success.

Can a betting license be transferred or used across different regions?

Whether a casino dealer license could be transferred depends on the conditions of each specific jurisdiction. In most cases, an internet gaming license can only be transferred together along with the shares of the company holing egaming license.

At the same time, certain jurisdictions allow online gaming licenses to be valid across different regions or permit the license holder to operate in multiple jurisdictions. It is important to carefully  check the restrictions of the applicable licensing regime. In some cases, multijurisdictional operations may require additional permissions or compliance with specific regulations in each region where the casino gaming license  is used.

Transferring an online gaming license often requires reviewing the licensing terms, adhering to local laws, and obtaining regulatory approval. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with your gambling expert.

Are there differences in licensing requirements for online and land-based casinos?

Indeed, the internet gaming licensing  criteria for land-based and online casinos typically differ because to their disparate operating systems. Gaming licenses for land-based casinos often focus on physical site compliance and municipal regulations, whereas those for online casinos need adherence to digital security, data protection, and more general gambling rules. Each has different operating and legal needs based on how they employ technology.

What is a level 4 gaming license ?

A Level 4 Gaming License often indicates the topmost or most specialized layer in a licensing framework. It is meant for specialist, skill-based, or specialty games that require particular regulatory oversight. These internet gaming licenses cover a broad range of activities, from online platforms and specific gambling verticals to unique game offers, and each has its own set of compliance standards.

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The accumulated experience and tracking of future changes in this area allow us to be proactive
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