Romania’s Class II License: The Compliance Backbone Powering Europe’s iGaming Supply Chain

Europe’s iGaming market has a new reality: regulators are no longer chasing just operators—they’re auditing the entire supply chain.

From platform providers to payment processors, every serious B2B company is now expected to demonstrate full regulatory compliance. In this landscape, Romania’s Class II license has emerged as a critical benchmark for legitimacy within the EU.

For suppliers looking to secure PSP access, close deals with licensed operators, and scale sustainably, this license is quickly becoming more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a commercial advantage.

In this article, we break down how the Romania Class II license works, what it costs, and why forward-thinking companies are integrating it into their core expansion strategy.

What You’ll Learn in This Article

• What the Romania Class II (B2B) license is and who actually needs it
• How the licensing process works, step by step
• Real costs, timelines, and ongoing obligations
• Key compliance requirements (AML, technical, regulatory)
• Differences between Class I and Class II licenses
• How to structure your business (EU + offshore + PSP layer)
• Common pitfalls that delay or block approvals
• How the license improves PSP access and operator partnerships
• What changed in 2026 and why it matters for B2B suppliers
• How to use the license as a strategic growth and credibility tool

Why B2B Licensing Is No Longer Optional in 2026

A few years ago, iGaming regulation focused almost entirely on operators. That era is over.

Today, regulators—and more importantly, payment providers—are scrutinizing the entire ecosystem: platforms, aggregators, payment processors, and even affiliate infrastructures. In this context, Romania has quietly positioned itself as one of the most relevant jurisdictions for B2B compliance in Europe.

At the center of this framework is the Class II license issued by the Oficiul Național pentru Jocuri de Noroc (ONJN), under GEO 77/2009.

And for many suppliers, obtaining it is no longer a strategic advantage—it is becoming a prerequisite.

What the Romania Class II License Actually Covers

The Class II license applies to companies that support gambling operations without directly offering games to players.

This includes:

• Platform providers (PAM systems)
• Game developers and RNG suppliers
• Aggregators and API distribution hubs
• Payment service providers (PSPs)
• Hosting and infrastructure services
• Integrated affiliate systems

The regulatory logic is straightforward: if your service influences gameplay, transactions, or compliance, you are part of the regulated chain.

The Real Value: Trust, Access, and Scalability

Romania is not an offshore shortcut. It is a compliance-first jurisdiction.

That distinction matters.

A Class II license delivers three tangible advantages:

1. Access to Regulated Operators. Licensed operators increasingly require their suppliers to be regulated; without a Class II license, integration discussions often stop before they start.

2. Stronger PSP and Banking Relationships. Payment institutions are aligning with regulators, and Romania’s framework is widely recognized across Europe.

3. Long-Term Market Positioning. With a 10-year validity period, the license offers stability in an industry defined by regulatory shifts.

Cost vs. Reality: A Strategic Investment

The statutory cost structure is clear:

• €10,500 issuance fee
• €20,000 annual license fee
• €15,000 annual responsible gambling contribution

This brings the first-year total to approximately €45,500, excluding structuring and advisory.

At first glance, it may seem significant. In practice, however, most B2B companies view it as the cost of entering—and staying in—the regulated European market.

For a more detailed breakdown of requirements, timelines, and structuring options, see this comprehensive guide on obtaining a Romania B2B gambling license (Class II).

Timeline and Process

Obtaining a Class II license is relatively efficient compared to other EU jurisdictions.

• Preparation phase: 2–4 weeks
• ONJN review: ~20–30 days
• Total timeline: approximately 4–8 weeks

Delays are typically linked to incomplete documentation or insufficient technical clarity, particularly around system architecture and software ownership.

2026 Regulatory Shift: The Supply Chain Is Now Visible

Recent regulatory updates in Romania have reinforced a clear trend: compliance is no longer limited to operators.

Authorities are increasing scrutiny on:

• Affiliate structures
• Payment flows
• Supplier relationships

This means B2B providers must now operate with the same level of transparency and accountability as licensed operators.

International Use: Flexible but Controlled

One of the most attractive features of the Romanian Class II license is its international usability.

Licensed companies can provide services globally, provided they:

• Do not target Romanian players without proper authorization
• Avoid Romania-specific targeting (e.g., RON currency, local marketing)
• Implement appropriate geo-restrictions where necessary

This makes Romania particularly effective as a compliance anchor within multi-jurisdiction structures.

Where iGaming Express Comes In

As the regulatory landscape becomes more complex, execution matters as much as strategy.

This is where iGaming Express positions itself.

Rather than treating licensing as a standalone service, iGaming Express focuses on integrated structures that align licensing, payments, and operations.

Their approach typically includes:

• End-to-end Class II licensing (company setup, documentation, submission)
• Compliance architecture (AML/KYC, technical documentation, audit readiness)
• PSP and EMI onboarding support
• Hybrid structuring (Romania + offshore + EU payment entity)

The objective is not just to obtain a license—but to ensure that the business can operate, scale, and transact without friction.

A Structural Shift in the Industry

The Romanian Class II license reflects a broader industry transformation.

Regulators are no longer asking:

“Is the operator compliant?”

They are asking:

“Is the entire ecosystem compliant?”

For B2B providers, this changes the game entirely.

Conclusion: From Optional to Essential

In 2026, the Romania Class II license has moved beyond a regulatory checkbox.

It has become:

• A signal of credibility
• A gateway to regulated partnerships
• A requirement for sustainable growth in Europe

Companies that recognize this shift early will position themselves ahead of the curve.
Those that don’t may find themselves excluded from the very markets they aim to serve.

About iGaming Express

iGaming Express is a specialized consulting firm focused on international iGaming licensing, compliance structuring, and payment integration strategies, supporting operators and suppliers across Europe and offshore jurisdictions.

Companies looking to structure their licensing efficiently can explore a full implementation framework here: Romania Class II license setup and strategy