Curacao gambling license: cost, requirements, and benefits
The topic of the Curacao license, issued by three main entities – Curacao eGaming, Gaming Curacao, and AntillePhone NV Gaming – is an inseparable subject of industry discussions and debates. Obtaining a Curacao license allows an iGaming platform operator to offer both casino games and sports betting. It is estimated that currently, up to 20,000 iGaming platforms operate under the restrictions of this license (this number includes so-called mirror sites, i.e., sites operating under similar names).
Obtaining a Curacao license
Currently, obtaining a Curacao license is considered relatively straightforward compared to other licenses required for operators in the iGaming sector. If an operator prepares well for the legislative process and submits properly completed documents, the process of obtaining such a license usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. However, it is worth noting that regulators are often overwhelmed with work, which can extend the time for reviewing applications.
Technical requirements for iGaming platforms applying for a Curacao license
To obtain a Curacao license, iGaming platform operators must meet several technical and administrative requirements in addition to formal ones. Key aspects of the process include:
Personal documentation and information,
- bank references,
- proof of capital sources,
- no tax arrears,
- responsible gambling policy,
- KYC procedures,
- policies to protect minors from addiction (rules for underage gambling),
- technical system audits conducted by independent firms,
- technical game audits,
- local presence (representatives of the platform must work in Curacao),
- server infrastructure,
- data protection measures,
- secure payment policy.
Curacao license 2025 – Costs of obtaining the license
The Curacao gambling license has recently undergone significant changes, connected with the introduction of a new regulatory framework (LOK). This update aims to simplify the licensing process and strengthen regulatory oversight.
When considering the licensing process, it is essential to account for both initial costs and ongoing fees. These costs vary depending on the type of license.
The main differences between B2B and B2C licenses in Curacao are centered around the type of services offered and the target audience.
B2C license costs
- application fee – €4,600 plus a one-off due diligence fee ranging from €125 to €250 (ANG 250 to ANG 500) per person, depending on their role,
- annual fee – €24,600,
- monthly fee – €2,050,
- domain fee – €250 (ANG 500) per domain annually; unlimited domains are allowed under this license.
B2B license costs
€4,600 application fee
€24,600 annual fee
It is worth noting that operators should bear in mind that the costs of obtaining the license are both initial and recurring, making them an integral part of operating expenses.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Curacao license
The increasingly popular Curacao license comes with both advantages and disadvantages for operators who choose it.
The key advantages include the ease of obtaining the license and its relatively low cost compared to other licensing processes. Additionally, the process is quick if documents are correctly prepared – operators can start their operations in just a few weeks. The Curacao license is currently valid in over 200 countries, which is a significant benefit for international organizations.
Other advantages include the flexibility of the license in terms of the range of services operators can offer and the acceptance of various payment methods, including cryptocurrencies.
However, alongside these many advantages, there are notable disadvantages. Unfortunately, the Curacao license does not enjoy a good reputation among players, and platforms operating under it are often viewed as unreliable and untrustworthy. This is due to the lower level of player protection compared to other licenses. Additionally, some countries, such as the Netherlands, Austria, and France, do not recognize the Curacao license.
The process of obtaining a Curacao license
As mentioned earlier, the process of obtaining a Curacao license is relatively simple and quick compared to others. Below are the main steps an operator must go through to obtain the license:
- company formation – the company must be established according to Curacao law. It is essential to have a local representative acting as a director and a local contact person,
- document collection – employees of the company are verified, so CVs, certificates of no criminal record, and similar documents must be provided,
- preparation of company documentation – this includes documents related to company funds, responsible gambling policies, and terms of service. A bank reference is also required,
- application submission and registration fee – the application is submitted through the official Curacao eGaming Authority website,
- application review – during the review process, the operator’s platform undergoes formal and technical audits. Independent auditors check the proper functioning of the system and games,
- license issuance – the license is granted for a period of five years.
This article is for informational purposes. All updates regarding the license and the full process should be checked on the official regulator’s website – Curaçao eGaming – CEG Accreditations.
