The online casino industry generates over $100 billion annually, and every legitimate operator needs a license to participate. But choosing the right licensing jurisdiction is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make – it determines where you can operate, which payment providers will work with you, how much players trust your brand, and what your ongoing costs look like.
This guide covers every major licensing jurisdiction in detail: from premium European regulators to emerging offshore options, the UAE’s groundbreaking new framework, the fragmented U.S. market, and the newest entrants like Tobique and Nevis. Whether you’re a startup choosing your first license or an established operator expanding into new markets, this is the resource you need.
Why an iGaming License Matters
An online casino license isn’t just paperwork – it’s the foundation of your entire business. Operating without one exposes you to criminal penalties, asset seizures, and permanent exclusion from reputable markets.
What a license gives you:
A license provides legal authorization to offer games of chance, sports betting, poker, lotteries, and other gambling products to players. It grants access to regulated markets where only licensed operators can serve players. It establishes credibility with players who increasingly check for license credentials before depositing funds. It opens the door to banking and payment processing, since most reputable payment providers, banks, and PSPs require a valid gaming license before onboarding an operator. And it provides a framework for dispute resolution, giving both operators and players a clear process when issues arise.
Without a license, you cannot access mainstream payment processing, reputable game providers won’t supply you with content, and you’ll be locked out of the world’s most lucrative markets.
Quick Comparison: iGaming Licensing Jurisdictions at a Glance
| Jurisdiction | Setup Cost (approx.) | Annual/Ongoing Cost | Processing Time | Tax on GGR | Market Access | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK (UKGC) | £5,640–£106,000+ | £11,165–£542,000+ | 3–6 months | 21% RGD | UK only | Operators targeting UK players |
| Malta (MGA) | €5,000 application + €25,000 annual | 0.4–1.25% of revenue (capped) | 6–12 months | 5% corporate | EU-wide passporting | Serious EU-focused operators |
| Gibraltar | £100,000 annual | 1% of GGY (capped £425,000) | 3–6 months | 10% corporate (capped) | EU + international | Established, high-revenue operators |
| Isle of Man | £5,000 application + £35,000 annual | 0.1–1.5% of GGY | 3–6 months | 0% on gaming revenue | International | Blockchain/crypto gaming operators |
| Sweden | SEK 400,000 | SEK 60,000+ annual | 4–8 months | 18% on GGR | Sweden only | Nordic market specialists |
| Estonia | €4,000 application + €1,200 annual | 5% on GGR | 2–3 months | 20% on distributed profits | EU (via passporting) | SME operators targeting Baltics/Nordics |
| UAE (GCGRA) | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed | ~6 months | TBD | UAE | Premium operators targeting Middle East |
| Australia (state-level) | Varies by state | Varies by state | Varies | Varies | Australia only | Operators targeting Australian market |
| U.S. (state-level) | $50,000–$500,000+ | Varies by state | 3–12 months | 15–51% on GGR | Individual state | Major operators with deep pockets |
| Curaçao | ~€18,500 | €43,200 annual | 4–6 weeks (legacy); longer under new LOK | 2% corporate | International (not EU/UK/US) | Budget-conscious international operators |
| Kahnawake | $40,000 | $20,000 annual | 4–8 weeks | 0% | International (not US) | Established operators targeting global markets |
| Tobique | ~€36,000 first year | €18,000 renewal | 4–8 weeks | 0% | International (not US/UK) | Startups and mid-size operators |
| Nevis (NOGA) | €28,000 | €28,000 annual | 8–12 weeks | 0% | International | Operators wanting modern offshore framework |
| Anjouan | ~€18,000 | €17,000 annual | 2–4 weeks | 0% | International (limited recognition) | Budget startups targeting emerging markets |
| Costa Rica | $15,000–$20,000 | Minimal | 2–4 weeks | No gaming tax | Unregulated markets | Very early-stage operators (no formal license) |
Note: Costs are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current fees directly with regulators.
Part 1: Onshore (Tier-1) Licensing Jurisdictions
These are the gold-standard licenses. They’re more expensive and take longer to obtain, but they unlock the world’s most lucrative regulated markets and carry the highest player trust.
United Kingdom – Gambling Commission (UKGC)
The UK Gambling Commission is widely regarded as the world’s most rigorous gaming regulator. A UKGC license is essential for any operator targeting UK players — and it’s often treated as a mark of quality by players worldwide.
Key details: The UKGC issues multiple license types covering remote casino, betting, bingo, poker, and software supply. Application fees range from £5,640 for small operators to over £106,000 for large-scale operations, with annual fees scaled to revenue. The Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) is 21% of gross gambling profits. Processing typically takes 3 to 6 months, though complex applications can take longer.
Requirements include a UK-based or approved entity, a designated compliance manager, robust AML/KYC systems, responsible gambling tools (self-exclusion, deposit limits, reality checks), regular third-party audits, and certified Random Number Generators (RNG).
Why it matters: The UKGC’s standards are so thorough that holding this license signals credibility to payment providers, game suppliers, and players globally. However, the regulatory burden is significant — operators face ongoing reporting, advertising restrictions, and substantial penalties for non-compliance.
Best for: Operators committed to the UK market or those wanting the strongest possible regulatory credential.
Malta – Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
The Malta Gaming Authority has been at the center of European iGaming since 2001. Malta’s licensing framework provides EU-wide passporting rights, meaning a single MGA license can authorize operations across EU member states.
Key details: The application fee is €5,000, with an annual license fee of €25,000. The compliance contribution ranges from 1.25% down to 0.4% of gaming revenue, capped at €375,000 annually. Malta’s corporate tax system effectively results in a 5% rate on distributed profits through its refund mechanism. Processing takes 6 to 12 months.
Requirements include minimum share capital of €40,000 to €100,000 (depending on license type), a local office in Malta, at least one Malta-based director, appointment of a Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), certified game systems and RNG, and comprehensive AML/KYC/responsible gaming policies.
Why it matters: Malta hosts more licensed iGaming companies than any other EU jurisdiction. The island’s established ecosystem of legal firms, compliance providers, game studios, and payment companies makes it the natural hub for European-focused operations.
Best for: Operators seeking EU market access with strong regulatory credibility. This is the go-to license for serious B2C operations in Europe.
Gibraltar – Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner
Gibraltar has been licensing online gambling since 1998, making it one of the longest-established jurisdictions. Its prestige attracts some of the world’s largest operators, including bet365, 888 Holdings, and BetVictor.
Key details: The annual license fee is £100,000. Tax is 1% of Gross Gaming Yield (GGY), capped at £425,000 annually. Corporate tax is 10%, also capped. Processing takes 3 to 6 months.
Requirements include local incorporation with a physical office, local directors and staff, comprehensive AML compliance and ongoing audits, and significant financial resources demonstrating operational capacity.
Why it matters: Gibraltar’s combination of prestige, favorable tax caps, and established infrastructure makes it ideal for high-revenue operators. The tax caps mean that once your revenue reaches a certain threshold, your effective tax rate decreases — a significant advantage for large operations.
Best for: Established, high-revenue operators targeting European and international markets.
Isle of Man – Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC)
The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission has built a strong reputation for regulatory excellence, with particular appeal for operators working with blockchain technology and cryptocurrency.
Key details: The application fee is £5,000, with an annual license fee of £35,000. There is 0% corporate tax on gaming revenue. GGY duty ranges from 0.1% to 1.5%, depending on the type of activity. Processing takes 3 to 6 months.
Requirements include company incorporation in the Isle of Man, two local directors and a registered office, robust AML/responsible gaming compliance, and strong IT infrastructure.
Why it matters: The Isle of Man is one of the few tier-1 jurisdictions that explicitly supports blockchain-based gaming and cryptocurrency payments. Its 0% corporate tax on gaming revenue and relatively low GGY duty make it financially attractive.
Best for: Operators focused on crypto/blockchain gaming, or those wanting a tier-1 license with favorable tax treatment.
Sweden – Spelinspektionen
Sweden’s regulated market opened in 2019 and is overseen by Spelinspektionen. It provides access to the lucrative Nordic market, but the regulatory requirements are among the strictest in Europe.
Key details: The application fee is approximately SEK 400,000, with annual fees of SEK 60,000+. GGR tax is 18%. Processing takes 4 to 8 months.
Requirements include mandatory responsible gambling tools (player self-exclusion via Spelpaus, deposit limits, bonus restrictions), strict advertising regulations, local compliance presence, and integration with Sweden’s national self-exclusion system.
Why it matters: Sweden is one of the highest-spending gambling markets in Europe per capita. Access requires a Swedish-specific license — EU passporting from Malta does not apply for B2C operations targeting Swedish players.
Best for: Operators specifically targeting the Swedish/Nordic market who can handle the high compliance burden.
Estonia – Tax and Customs Board
Estonia offers one of the most accessible EU-based gaming licenses, with lower costs and faster processing than Malta or the UKGC.
Key details: The application fee is €4,000, with an annual license fee of €1,200. There is a 5% tax on GGR. Corporate tax is 20%, but only on distributed profits (undistributed profits are tax-free). Processing takes approximately 2 to 3 months.
Requirements include a local office and management presence, transparent AML/KYC policies, and certified gaming systems.
Why it matters: Estonia provides legitimate EU market access at a fraction of the cost of Malta or Gibraltar. It’s particularly suitable for small to medium-sized operators targeting the Baltic and Nordic regions.
Best for: SME operators wanting EU-recognized licensing without the cost of Malta.
United Arab Emirates – GCGRA
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) was established in September 2023, marking a historic shift in the UAE’s approach to gaming. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, the GCGRA holds exclusive jurisdiction over all commercial gaming in the UAE’s seven emirates.
Key details: The GCGRA’s licensing framework covers lottery operations, internet gaming (online casino and mobile), sports wagering, and land-based casinos. License fees are not publicly disclosed and are determined on a case-by-case basis. The framework follows a “one license per emirate” model for B2C operations, with each emirate deciding individually whether to participate. Processing takes approximately 6 months.
What’s happened so far: The first license was awarded in 2024 to The Game LLC for the UAE lottery. Wynn Resorts holds the first land-based casino license for its $5 billion integrated resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, expected to open in 2027. Several B2B supplier licenses have been issued. Online gaming and sports wagering B2C licenses are expected to follow.
Requirements include comprehensive AML/CFT systems, responsible gaming programs (deposit limits, cooling-off periods, self-exclusion), qualified personnel, and meeting GCGRA technical standards.
Why it matters: Morgan Stanley estimates the UAE gaming market could generate $3 to $5 billion in annual GGR. For operators able to secure a license, the UAE represents an enormous opportunity in a largely untapped premium market. The GCGRA has signed an MOU with New Jersey gaming regulators, signaling its intent to align with tier-1 standards.
Best for: Major operators with significant resources, targeting the Middle East premium market. This is not currently accessible to startups.
Australia – State-Based Licensing
Australia’s online gambling landscape is complex. Online casino gaming is currently prohibited for Australian-facing operators under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, enforced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). However, sports betting and lotteries are permitted and regulated at the state level.
Key regulators include the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission, the NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority, and the Queensland Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation.
Why it matters: While the Australian market is largely closed to online casino operators, the sports betting market is substantial. Operators must hold state-level licenses and comply with strict responsible gambling requirements. Australia is also known for aggressive enforcement against unlicensed offshore operators — ACMA regularly blocks access to unauthorized gambling websites.
Best for: Sports betting operators specifically targeting the Australian market through proper state licensing.
United States – State-by-State Licensing
The U.S. is the world’s most fragmented iGaming market. There is no federal online casino license — each state maintains independent authority. As of early 2026, eight states have legalized online casino gaming: New Jersey, Delaware, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and Maine (with launch pending).
Key details: Costs vary enormously by state. Application fees range from $50,000 to $500,000+, with annual fees and revenue-based taxes on top. Tax rates on GGR range from approximately 15% (Michigan) to over 50% (some proposed bills). Processing can take 3 to 12 months.
The market structure typically requires partnerships with existing land-based casinos. Most states use a “skin” model where online operators partner with licensed brick-and-mortar casinos. Several states — including New York, Virginia, Illinois, and Massachusetts — have active legislation under consideration for 2026.
Why it matters: New Jersey’s gaming industry alone generated a record $6.98 billion in 2025. The U.S. market is enormous but extremely expensive and complex to enter. Each state requires separate licensing, compliance infrastructure, and operational presence.
Best for: Major, well-capitalized operators willing to invest significantly in state-by-state expansion. Not suitable for startups or smaller operators.
Part 2: Offshore Licensing Jurisdictions
Offshore licenses are faster and cheaper to obtain, making them attractive for startups and operators targeting international markets. However, they typically cannot be used to serve players in strictly regulated jurisdictions like the UK, EU, or U.S.
Curaçao
Curaçao has historically been the most popular offshore gaming jurisdiction, licensing more online casinos than virtually any other authority. However, significant regulatory changes are underway.
Key details: Under the legacy system, setup costs were approximately €18,500 with an annual renewal of €43,200. Corporate tax is 2% with no VAT. Processing took 4 to 6 weeks. However, since September 2023, the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK) has overhauled the regulatory framework, introducing stricter requirements including local presence, enhanced AML/KYC, and higher compliance costs.
The sublicense system that historically made Curaçao so accessible — where master licensees like Antillephone N.V. and Cyberluck Curacao N.V. issued sublicenses to individual operators — is being phased out under the new regime.
Why it matters: Curaçao remains a viable option for international operators, but the cost advantages over newer jurisdictions like Tobique and Nevis are shrinking. The new LOK regime significantly increases compliance requirements and operational costs.
Best for: Operators already established in Curaçao or those targeting markets where Curaçao licenses carry recognition. New entrants should compare carefully against Tobique and Nevis.
Kahnawake Gaming Commission (Canada)
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission was established in 1999, making it one of the longest-running online gaming regulators. It operates under the sovereign authority of the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory in Quebec, Canada.
Key details: The application fee is $40,000 (includes the first annual fee), with $20,000 annual renewals. There is no gaming tax. Processing takes 4 to 8 weeks.
Requirements include AML compliance, background checks for all directors and key personnel, and ongoing reporting obligations.
Why it matters: Kahnawake carries stronger recognition than most offshore jurisdictions thanks to its decades of operational history. However, it does not authorize operations targeting U.S. players, and its appeal for European-focused operators has diminished as EU regulation has tightened.
Best for: Established operators targeting global markets outside the U.S. and EU.
Tobique Gaming Commission (Canada)
The Tobique Gaming Commission launched in October 2023 under the sovereign authority of Tobique First Nation in New Brunswick, Canada. It has rapidly become one of the most popular licensing choices for startups and mid-size operators.
Key details: The first-year cost is approximately €36,000 to €40,000, including pre-application, license fee, and regulatory fees. Renewal is €18,000 annually. There is 0% gaming tax. Processing takes 4 to 8 weeks. A single license covers online casino, sports betting, poker, lotteries, bingo, and table games. Up to five URLs are included.
Requirements include appointment of an MLRO (Money Laundering Reporting Officer), AML/KYC policies, responsible gaming policies, player fund segregation, and RNG certification from independent labs (GLI, iTech Labs, or BMM Testlab). No local office, staff, resident directors, or servers are required in Tobique.
Why it matters: Tobique has emerged as a direct successor to the pre-reform Curaçao license, offering a similar combination of speed, affordability, and comprehensive coverage — but with a more structured regulatory framework. The lack of local presence requirements makes it operationally flexible.
Limitations: Tobique does not provide access to regulated markets like the EU, UK, or U.S. It is a relatively new jurisdiction (since 2023), so its long-term reputation is still being established. Some countries may not recognize the license.
Best for: Startups and mid-size operators entering international markets who want speed and affordability without Curaçao’s increasing compliance costs.
Nevis – Nevis Online Gaming Authority (NOGA)
The Nevis Online Gaming Authority (NOGA) was established under the Nevis Online Gaming Ordinance 2025, which took effect on May 1, 2025. Nevis is part of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean.
Key details: The annual license fee is €28,000 for either B2C or B2B authorization. The base license includes two operational domains, with additional domains at €750 each (up to 40). There is 0% tax on foreign-sourced income and no GGR tax. Processing takes 8 to 12 weeks. Nevis operates under common law and is FATF/OECD compliant.
License types: B2C covers consumer-facing operations (online casino, sports betting, poker, lotteries, bingo, esports). B2B covers platforms, game studios, white-label providers, and payment/KYC vendors. You can hold both simultaneously.
Requirements include incorporation of a Nevis company (IBC or LLC), appointment of a Local Reporting Officer and Compliance Officer, fit-and-proper testing for all directors and UBOs, comprehensive AML/KYC and responsible gaming policies, RNG and technical audits, and a detailed business plan.
Why it matters: Nevis is positioning itself as a bridge between tier-1 and offshore — modern compliance standards at offshore pricing. Its FATF compliance, prohibition of sublicensing, and structured regulatory framework differentiate it from legacy offshore jurisdictions. The jurisdiction explicitly supports cryptocurrency payments.
Limitations: Very new (2025), so track record is limited. Not yet recognized as tier-1 by most payment providers.
Best for: Operators wanting a modern, compliance-forward offshore license with credibility ambitions beyond traditional offshore jurisdictions.
Anjouan – Offshore Finance Authority
Anjouan (part of the Comoros Islands) offers one of the most affordable and fastest licensing options available.
Key details: The application fee is approximately €18,000, with an annual license fee of €17,000. There is minimal or no gaming tax. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks. Local incorporation is required.
Requirements include basic AML compliance and standard corporate documentation.
Why it matters: Anjouan is the budget option — attractive for startups testing market potential or operators entering non-regulated markets where licensing requirements are minimal. However, the license carries very limited global recognition.
Limitations: Low recognition in regulated markets, limited player trust compared to any other jurisdiction on this list, and minimal regulatory oversight.
Best for: Very early-stage startups targeting emerging markets with the smallest possible initial investment.
Costa Rica – Unregulated Model
Costa Rica does not issue a formal gaming license. Instead, companies incorporate as data processing businesses and operate with minimal regulatory oversight.
Key details: Setup costs are approximately $15,000 to $20,000. There are no gaming-specific taxes (standard corporate tax applies). There is no direct gaming license or regulatory body. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Why it matters: Costa Rica represents the absolute minimum barrier to entry. However, the absence of a formal license means no regulatory credibility, very limited access to reputable payment providers, and low player trust. It is not recognized in any regulated market.
Best for: Operators seeking the lowest possible entry cost, with the understanding that growth into regulated markets will require obtaining a proper license elsewhere.
Other Notable Jurisdictions
Philippines (PAGCOR): The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation licenses online gaming operators targeting Asian markets. The Philippines has been a major hub for Asian-facing operations, though regulatory tightening in 2024–2025 has increased compliance requirements.
Panama: Offers a relatively affordable offshore license with processing in 4 to 8 weeks. No gaming tax. Suitable for Latin American-focused operators.
Vanuatu: Emerging as one of the lowest-cost jurisdictions alongside Anjouan. Very new framework with limited track record.
How to Choose the Right License
The right license depends on your specific situation. Here are the key decision factors:
Where are your target players? If you’re targeting UK players, you need a UKGC license — no alternatives. If you’re targeting EU broadly, Malta is the standard. If you’re targeting international players outside strictly regulated markets, offshore options like Tobique, Nevis, or Kahnawake provide faster and cheaper access.
What’s your budget? Tier-1 licenses (UK, Malta, Gibraltar) require six-figure budgets including setup, compliance infrastructure, and ongoing costs. Offshore licenses (Tobique, Nevis, Anjouan) can be operational for €30,000 to €50,000 in the first year.
How quickly do you need to launch? Offshore jurisdictions process in weeks. Tier-1 jurisdictions take months. If speed to market is critical, start with an offshore license and plan your tier-1 application in parallel.
Do you accept cryptocurrency? Isle of Man and Nevis explicitly support crypto gaming. Malta and the UKGC have frameworks that accommodate crypto with additional compliance. Most offshore jurisdictions allow crypto payments.
What’s your long-term strategy? Many successful operators start with an offshore license to generate revenue, then graduate to tier-1 licenses as the business matures. This staged approach manages costs while building toward maximum market access.
The Banking Challenge: Why Your License Matters for Payments
One of the most overlooked aspects of licensing is its impact on banking and payment processing. Reputable payment service providers (PSPs), acquiring banks, and card networks require a valid gaming license before onboarding operators. The tier of your license directly affects which payment partners will work with you.
Tier-1 licenses (UKGC, MGA, Gibraltar) open doors to mainstream banks and payment processors. Operators can typically access Visa and Mastercard acquiring, major PSPs, and traditional banking relationships.
Mid-tier licenses (Isle of Man, Estonia, Kahnawake) provide good access to specialized gaming PSPs and some mainstream providers, though options are more limited than tier-1.
Offshore licenses (Tobique, Nevis, Curaçao, Anjouan) typically limit you to specialized gaming payment providers and crypto-focused solutions. Mainstream banking access is significantly harder.
This is where specialized support becomes essential. If you need help securing banking and payment solutions alongside your iGaming license — especially for operations in challenging jurisdictions — explore our iGaming bank account opening services or our broader payment processing solutions.
Regulatory Trends Shaping iGaming Licensing in 2025–2026
MiCA and EU crypto regulation are affecting operators who accept cryptocurrency. The EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation imposes requirements on crypto payment handling that intersect with gaming operations. Operators accepting crypto should ensure compliance with both gaming and crypto regulations. See our crypto licensing guide for more detail.
Curaçao’s regulatory overhaul under the LOK is driving operators toward alternatives like Tobique and Nevis. The cost and complexity of Curaçao licensing has increased significantly, eliminating much of its historical advantage.
The UAE’s emergence as a regulated gaming market could reshape the Middle Eastern landscape. The GCGRA’s approach — combining strict oversight with innovation-friendly rhetoric — suggests a market that will attract major international operators.
U.S. state-by-state expansion continues, with New York, Virginia, and others actively considering iGaming legislation. Each new state that legalizes online casinos expands the addressable market but adds compliance complexity.
Increased emphasis on responsible gambling across all jurisdictions. Self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, and affordability checks are becoming standard requirements, not optional extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which online casino license is cheapest to obtain?
Anjouan and Costa Rica offer the lowest entry costs (under €20,000). Among legitimate licensing jurisdictions, Tobique (~€36,000 first year) and Nevis (€28,000 annual) provide the best value when balancing cost against regulatory credibility. Estonia (€4,000 application + €1,200 annual) is the cheapest EU-based option.
How long does it take to get an online casino license?
Processing times range from 2 to 4 weeks (Anjouan, Costa Rica) to 6 to 12 months (Malta, UKGC). Tobique and Nevis typically process in 4 to 12 weeks. The most common bottleneck is documentation preparation, not regulator processing speed.
Can I operate globally with a single license?
No single license provides truly global coverage. Offshore licenses (Curaçao, Tobique, Nevis) allow you to serve players in many international markets, but regulated jurisdictions like the UK, Sweden, and U.S. states require separate, jurisdiction-specific licenses. Most successful operators hold multiple licenses.
Do I need a local office for every license?
It depends on the jurisdiction. Malta, Gibraltar, the Isle of Man, and Sweden require local presence. Tobique, Nevis, Anjouan, and Curaçao (for some license types) do not require a physical office.
What’s the best license for a startup?
For most startups, Tobique or Nevis offers the best balance of cost, speed, credibility, and coverage. They allow you to launch quickly while building revenue to fund tier-1 license applications later. If your target market is specifically the EU, Estonia is the most accessible starting point.
Can I accept cryptocurrency with a gaming license?
Yes, but support varies. Isle of Man and Nevis explicitly support crypto. Malta accommodates crypto with additional compliance. Most offshore jurisdictions allow it. The UKGC has the strictest requirements around crypto transactions. Operators accepting crypto must also consider crypto-specific regulatory requirements.
What happens if I operate without a license?
Consequences include criminal penalties (fines and imprisonment in many jurisdictions), domain blocking by regulators, exclusion from payment networks, game suppliers refusing to provide content, and permanent reputational damage. Regulators like the UKGC and ACMA actively pursue unlicensed operators.
How does licensing affect my ability to get a bank account?
Significantly. Most banks and PSPs require a valid gaming license before opening accounts for iGaming companies. Tier-1 licenses provide the broadest banking access, while offshore licenses limit you to specialized providers. For help with banking, see our high-risk bank account solutions.
Getting Licensed: Next Steps
Obtaining the right iGaming license is the first step toward building a sustainable gambling business. The process involves selecting a jurisdiction, preparing comprehensive documentation, navigating regulatory requirements, and securing banking and payment infrastructure.
For operators in any stage — from pre-launch startups to established businesses expanding into new markets — BankMyCapital provides guidance on jurisdiction selection, banking solutions, and payment processing tailored to the iGaming industry. Browse our knowledge base for more resources, or visit our services page to discuss your specific requirements.
For additional questions, visit our FAQ page.
