Curaçao Sets May 30 Deadline for AML/CFT Policy Submissions

Curaçao has triggered a major regulatory shift, signaling the end of lax compliance for its licensed gaming sector. The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) now requires all licensees to submit updated AML/CFT policies by May 30, 2025, under a framework designed to align with global standards. While the move boosts the island’s credibility as a legitimate gambling jurisdiction, industry voices are raising concerns about the compressed timeline and operational challenges. Operators must act swiftly, updating AML policies through the CGA portal or risk fines—and possibly losing their licenses.

Curaçao Sets May Deadline for Gaming Operators to Meet New AML/CFT Compliance Standards

Key Points:

1. Curaçao Gaming Authority mandates AML/CFT policy submissions by May 30, 2025, for all licensees.
2. Non-compliance may result in heavy penalties, including fines or license revocation.
3. Experts warn that the one-month timeline could pressure current and prospective operators.

Curaçao, one of the world’s most recognizable online gambling jurisdictions, has entered a critical regulatory phase. The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) has officially implemented a sweeping new framework aimed at aligning the territory’s gaming operations with global anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-financing of terrorism (CFT) standards.

Effective April 10, 2025, all operators under CGA jurisdiction are required to upload their AML/CFT compliance policies via the CGA’s online portal by May 30, 2025.

The regulation marks the next phase in Curaçao’s long-anticipated transformation from a loosely supervised licensing regime into a structured, internationally respected regulator.

The Compliance Checklist

As outlined in CGA’s official template, every submission must include:

• A clear AML/CFT compliance statement

• A risk-based assessment of business operations and customer profiles

• Customer Due Diligence (CDD) procedures including Politically Exposed Persons (PEP) and sanction screening

• Systems for transaction monitoring and reporting suspicious activities

• A tailored AML program to address operational risks, especially in online platforms

Failure to meet the requirements could result in financial penalties or license suspension, according to CGA guidelines.

Industry Reactions: Tight Timeline Sparks Concerns

The tight compliance deadline has sparked debate within the gambling industry. Arran McCarthy, Commercial Director at EM Group, warned in an interview with SiGMA News that the 30-day window is too narrow for many licensees, especially smaller operators or those new to AML frameworks.

“The CGA should implement supervision in phases,” McCarthy advised. “One month is too short and could drive licensees away.”

Despite the concerns, McCarthy praised the overall framework as a major step forward. He emphasized that Curaçao’s direct government oversight and licensing reform represent a modern, accountable system that better aligns with FATF recommendations and other global compliance bodies.

Curaçao’s Evolution: From Lax Licensing to Global Legitimacy

This move is the result of over four years of planning and consultation, during which Curaçao engaged international legal experts, compliance consultants, and operators to redesign its licensing system. The ultimate goal? To legitimize Curaçao as a world-class iGaming regulator.

The overhaul follows mounting international pressure, especially from European markets, for Curaçao to address its reputation as a “light-touch” jurisdiction. By requiring detailed AML/CFT measures, Curaçao is strengthening its position in the global gaming economy and attracting more responsible, high-quality operators.

Curaçao’s AML/CFT compliance deadline is a bold declaration that the island is ready to compete as a legitimate global gaming regulator. While operators face a tight timeline, the move should elevate industry standards and reduce financial crime risks. The success—or failure—of this regulatory shift will be closely monitored by regulators and operators worldwide. For those holding Curaçao licences, compliance is no longer optional—it’s existential.