Curacao Gaming License in 2026 

Curacao Gaming License in 2026

• Obtaining a Curacao gaming license in 2026 is a hassle-free process with Tetra Consultants’ assistance. At Tetra Consultants, our team of lawyers, licensing specialists, compliance team, and accountants ensures that entrepreneurs receive end-to-end support in obtaining a gaming license in Curacao. 

• In accordance with the new structure of Curaçao as introduced under the LOK, the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) now regulates all land-based and online gaming activities carried out in or from Curaçao, based on the mandate of the Gaming Control Board as AML/CFT Supervisor since 2019.  

• The Ministry of Finance and the Financial Intelligence Unit, previously known as the Meldpunt Ongebruikelijke Transacties, are responsible for supervising and coordinating financial integrity and reporting requirements in the gaming industry.  

• Under the new rules introduced in 2025/2026, online gaming operators who apply for a gaming license in Curaçao are required to comply with stricter AML/CFT, transparency, and technical requirements, thus enhancing the reputation of the Curaçao license internationally. 

• In 2026, the licensing structure for gaming in Curaçao is governed by the National Ordinance for Games of Chance, replacing the earlier master and sub-license structure. Tetra Consultants can assist clients in licensing, company incorporation, banking, and legal services in setting up an online gaming business in Curaçao. 

Issuing authority of a Curacao Gaming License in 2026

• The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) is the primary issuing body for Curacao Gaming Licenses in 2026, which operates in accordance with the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK), which was fully effective as of December 24, 2024, and which incorporates 2025 regulatory updates.  

• The Curaçao Gaming Authority developed from the Gaming Control Board (GCB) and now regulates all gaming activities, including B2B and B2C Direct Operations, to ensure strict compliance with GLI Standards for fair gaming, technical integrity, and player protection.  

• Gaming license holders are also required to appoint a Money Laundering Reporting Officer to ensure AML/CFT compliance, and license applications involve submission of PHD/PDF Forms via the official online portal, with fees expressed in ANG currency.  

• These developments highlight key aspects of gaming ethics, substance requirements by April 2026, and transparency in all gaming segments, replacing outdated systems to ensure a solid and fraud-free gaming environment. Gaming operators looking to enter the market need to comply with these LOK requirements to ensure legal gaming operations. 

2026 LOK Transition

Current status (2026):  

• Pre-LOK master/sub-licenses are now fully expired by January 2026, direct applications to Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) are now mandatory under National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK), effective from Dec 2024. 

Transition overview:  

• B2B/B2C direct licensing from PHD/PDF form submissions to CGA portal, local substances for office/director by April 2026, GLI Standards, MLRO, and 2% Profit tax compliance for more stringent AML/CFT controls. 

Types of Curacao Gaming Licenses in 2026

B2C License 

• Allows services such as online casino, sports betting, lotteries, slots, table games, crash games, and bingo directly to players. GLI Standards, appointment of MLRO for AML/CFT, office in the country by April 2026, player protection, and annual fee around ANG 48,000 are required. 

B2B License 

• For suppliers offering software, platform, RNG, game development, payment, or aggregation services to operators. Separate license from B2C unless CGA approves combination, requires tech audit, substance, and LOK transparency. Has lower fees than B2C, includes white label/back-end providers. 

What are the activities allowed under a Curacao Gaming License?

A Curacao online gaming license enables the licensee to offer a wide range of online gaming services to players around the world. The specific services that can be offered under a Curacao online gaming license may vary depending on the type of license obtained, but typically include the following: 

• Online Casinos: Slots, table games, live games, crash games, GLI standards for RNG fairness are required. 

• Sports Betting: Fixed odds betting, live/in-play betting, virtual sports betting, esports betting, pre-match and exchange betting are included in LOK. 

• Poker and P2P Games: Poker tournaments, poker cash games, P2P poker games, player verification and anti-collusion are mandated. 

• Lotteries and Bingo: Traditional lotteries, instant win scratch card games, bingo rooms, crypto entry with AML is supported. 

• B2B Supply Services: Software platforms, game aggregation, payment gateway services, RNG services, for licensed operators only. 

Regulatory requirements for applying for a Curacao Gaming License in 2026

Shareholder requirements:  

• Full disclosure of ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) holding >=5% of shares, notarized PHD/PDF forms, criminal records, source of funds documentation required for assessment of fit and proper under LOK. 

Director requirements:  

• Mandatory local resident director, CV, passport, criminal records, no criminal history, evidence of gaming/compliance expertise. 

Capital requirements:  

• Minimum share capital of ANG 100,000+ required for B2C operators, bank statements as evidence, liquidity requirements to cover 6 months of operations/player payouts. 

Compliance Officer (MLRO) requirements:  

• Qualified Money Laundering Reporting Officer to be appointed, resident MLRO, AML/CFT policy, MLRO training program, FIU reporting requirements under LID. 

Company and forms:  

• Curacao NV/BV incorporation, local office/server, submission of Online Gaming Form, Business Info Form, PHD/PDF forms through CGA online portal. 

Technical and policies:  

• GLI standards for Random Number Generator Games, Responsible Gaming, KYC, ADR, initial costs of ~ANG 25,000+. 

Tax implication of obtaining a Curacao Gaming License in 2026

Corporate Income Tax:  

• 2% of net profits for the territorial tax system and e-zone/export for foreign gaming revenue, no tax on dividends if structured correctly. 

Gross Gaming Revenue Tax:  

• 0% tax on gross gaming revenue, which is another advantage of LOK – no gaming duties are levied on gaming operations. 

Value Added Tax:  

• 0% on online gaming operations, which include international wagers and crypto transactions. 

Other Taxes:  

• No withholding tax is levied on cross-border transactions, whereas payroll taxes are applicable for local staff as per substance requirements. 

Our tax and accounting team will optimize your structure for effective rate, handle LOK-compliant filings, and ensure audit readiness. 

Procedure to apply for a Curacao Gaming License  

• To obtain a gaming license in Curaçao, it is necessary to go through a well-structured registration process and establish a legal entity. After obtaining a gaming license in Curaçao, the gaming company will have the privilege of operating in a respected iGaming jurisdiction with beneficial taxation policies. Tetra Consultants legal and licensing experts will help you with efficient licensing and regulatory procedures. 

Step 7: Post-application compliances 

• After you have obtained the necessary approval to conduct your gaming business, Tetra Consultants will support you in ensuring that you are in compliance with local laws. 

• We will help you meet your yearly compliance obligations, such as submitting annual audited financial statements to local regulatory authorities and keeping track of your tax and accounting obligations. 

Restricted Jurisdictions for Curacao Gaming License (2026)

LOK rules mandate that CGA license holders do not service the following prohibited territories: 

• Core prohibited: USA, Netherlands, France, Australia, Curaçao itself 

• UK and Germany: Explicitly prohibited from service/marketing 

• FATF Blacklist: All High-Risk AML jurisdictions (quarterly updates) 

• Curaçao Citizens: Blocked access, regardless of location 

Operator obligations:  

• Implement IP geo-blocking, KYC, payment systems. Regular audits carried out by CGA, circumvention of VPN restrictions attracts a fine/suspension.  

Timeline of obtaining a Curacao Gaming License

• The time taken to procure a Curacao Gaming License in 2026 depends on the completeness of the application, the complexity of the business model, as well as the volume of applications being processed by the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA).  

• In addition, the CGA might ask for more information during the application process, which might increase the application time. On average, incorporation of a company takes 2 weeks, opening a corporate bank account takes 4 weeks, while the license application process takes 3-5 months.  

• The entire process takes 5-7 months. At Tetra Consultants, our legal experts are equipped to provide information regarding the application process, company incorporation, document preparation, as well as the application process with the CGA. 

Cost of obtaining a Curacao Gaming License

• The cost of acquiring the gaming license in Curaçao depends on the type and scale of the operation, as well as the level of compliance required. The general costs include the initial set-up costs and the annual regulatory costs.  

• The new regime set by the revised National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK) has the Curaçao Gaming Control Board responsible for the licensing and monitoring of the operation, with higher operational and reporting requirements. 

Advantages of obtaining a Curacao Gaming License

Enhanced regulatory credibility:  

• Under the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK), licenses issued by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board now carry more international credibility and regulatory recognition. 

Competitive tax regime:  

• Curaçao continues to offer a competitive tax regime for gaming operators at 0-4% corporate tax rates, allowing companies to minimize operational expenses. 

Direct licensing:  

• The 2026 regime has abolished the old system of master and sub-license and replaced it with direct B2C and B2B licenses, allowing for clearer compliance and transparency. 

Enhanced regulatory standards:  

• Operators are now required to comply with more stringent AML/KYC and player protection regulations in line with international best practices. 

Comprehensive coverage of gaming industry:  

• A license now allows for the operation of multiple iGaming products such as online casino games, sports betting, poker, and other online gaming services. 

Comparison of Curacao Gaming License with Other Major Jurisdictions

Criteria	Curacao	Malta	Anjouan
Regulatory Authority	Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB)	Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)	Anjouan Gaming Authority
Cost of License	Lower initial fees, generally less expensive	Higher initial and ongoing costs	Generally lower
Types of Activities Covered	All forms of online gaming (slots, sports betting, etc.)	Comprehensive coverage including online casinos, sports betting, etc.	Similar to Curaçao but fewer restrictions
Local Presence Requirement	Yes, must have a registered company in Curaçao	Yes, must have a registered company in Malta	Yes, must have a registered company in Anjouan
Tax Benefits	0-4% tax on net income, no betting tax	5% tax on gaming revenue, higher than Curaçao	Low or no taxes, attractive for startups
Market Access	Accepted in many jurisdictions, some restrictions	Recognized across EU and other countries	Limited recognition, primarily specific markets
Reputation and Trustworthiness	Generally recognized but has faced scrutiny	Highly reputable and trusted within the EU	Less known, newer jurisdiction
Application Process	Straightforward, includes AML compliance	Detailed and rigorous with strict requirements	Simpler process, less stringent regulations
Player Acceptance	Can accept players from most countries, with some restrictions (e.g., USA)	Can accept players from many countries, highly regulated	Can accept players from various countries but with limitations

Our services

• Tetra Consultants works as your advisor and trusted partner in your business expansion and offshore gaming license. With our own team of lawyers, licensing specialists, compliance team, and accountants, we tell our clients what they need to know, instead of what they want to hear. Most importantly, we are known for being a one-stop solution for our valued clients.   

• Our knowledge spans the whole range of operator activities, including licensing, corporate, online gaming legislation, compliance, and AML. We take pleasure in being one of Curacao experienced suppliers of iGaming services, having helped businesses get gaming licenses in Curaçao. 

Find out more!

• Contact us to find out more about how to get a Curacao gaming license. Our team of experts will revert within the next 24 hours. 

FAQ

Is there a minimum capital requirement to obtain a Curacao gaming license?

• No, there is no minimum capital requirement to obtain a Curacao gaming license, making it an accessible option for smaller operators.

What is the reputation of the Curacao gaming license?

• The Curacao gaming license has a mixed reputation. While it is recognized worldwide, some critics argue that the licensing standards are lower than in other jurisdictions, which could potentially pose risks for consumers.

What is the duration of a Curacao gaming license?

• A Curacao gaming license is typically issued for a period of five years, after which it can be renewed.

What are the requirements for maintaining a Curacao gaming license?

• To maintain a Curacao gaming license, operators must adhere to specific regulations, including implementing responsible gaming measures, ensuring the integrity of their operations, and submitting regular financial and operational reports.

What are the consequences of operating without a Curacao gaming license?

• Operating without a Curacao gaming license is illegal and can result in significant fines and penalties, as well as damage to the operator’s reputation.

Are there any ongoing fees associated with a Curacao gaming license?

• Yes, there are ongoing fees associated with a Curacao gaming license, including annual license fees and fees for specific services, such as hosting and compliance audits.

What are the required personal documents for a gaming license application in Curaçao?

• Applicants are required to submit copies of their passports, proof of their addresses, references from their banks and professional sources, their CV, proof of their source of funds, clearance from the police, proof of their domain ownership, and gaming software/RNG.

What are the required corporate documents for a gaming license in Curaçao?

• Companies are required to submit their incorporation documents, their business plan, details regarding their corporate structure, their financial information, their policies regarding AML/KYC, their policy on responsible gaming, their privacy policy, their payment procedures, and their technical requirements by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board.