Curaçao Unveils New Online Gambling License Fees and Revamped Licensing System

Curaçao is set to transform its online gambling landscape with a reformed licensing process, as announced by Finance Minister Javier Silvania. The new system, under the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK), will differentiate between B2B and B2C licenses, introducing a more nuanced and comprehensive regulatory framework.

Curaçao takes a leap in online gambling regulation, revamping its licensing system to better accommodate the dynamic digital gaming sector.

Under the new LOK, both B2B and B2C licenses will incur similar fees, but with distinct structures. B2C licenses will require an application fee of ANG 9,000 ($5,000) and one-off due diligence fees ranging from ANG 250 to ANG 500 per individual, based on their role. Operators will also be subject to an annual fee of ANG 48,000 and a monthly fee of ANG 4,000, with an additional ANG 500 per year for each domain, boasting unlimited domain coverage.

This revamped system aims to enhance the regulatory environment for online gambling in Curaçao, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. It addresses the complexities of modern online gaming, offering a more tailored approach to licensing that benefits both operators and regulatory bodies.

Stay informed about these significant changes in Curaçao’s online gambling regulations. Whether you’re an existing operator or a new entrant, understanding the new licensing framework is crucial for seamless compliance and operation.

The current holders of master licenses will enjoy a grace period under the new system, exempt from the annual fee in the first year, with a reduced monthly fee thereafter.

The B2B licenses, while mirroring B2C in application and due diligence fees, will not incur a monthly fee, highlighting a tailored approach to different business models in the online gambling industry.

Contrasting with the existing system, where there is no distinction between B2B and B2C licenses and a limit of 40 domains per license, the new reforms signify a progressive shift in Curaçao’s regulatory stance.

The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) has launched an application process for these new licenses through a dedicated portal, welcoming registrations from both new applicants and existing sub-licensees. This move is in line with the transition to a new regulatory framework under LOK, where the newly established Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) will assume regulatory responsibilities.

Minister Silvania has emphasized the importance of these reforms in preventing Curaçao from being grey-listed for AML concerns. Addressing SiGMA Curaçao, he reassured operators that the objective is not disruption but a smooth transition to a more robust and compliant licensing system.

These developments in Curaçao’s online gambling sector mark a pivotal step towards enhanced regulation and AML compliance, ensuring the island’s position as a reputable and reliable jurisdiction in the global online gaming market.