In this article, iGaming industry consultant Ron Mendelson, Fast Offshore, shares insights into the evolution of the regulatory requirements to acquire a Curacao license, and the benefits behind it as well.
Since 1996, Curacao has been at the heart of the iGaming industry, with the authorities issuing hundreds of licenses to online gambling operators. It has become known as one of the most straightforward and cost-efficient licenses on the markets offering broad geographical reach and plenty of flexibility. But recent regulatory changes threw the sector into slight disarray with some operators packing up and going elsewhere, while others were unsure about getting a Curacao license. Things are more stable now and we are seeing greater interest in Curacao once again. Here is all you need to know about where the license is, and where it is going in 2025.
The previous licensing regime
The Curacao gaming license was first launched back in 1993 through the National Offshore Gambling Decree. The first licenses were issued three years later, marking Curacao’s entry into the online gambling industry.
Prior to 2023, Curacao had a different framework for iGaming regulation. There were two forms of license available, a master license and a sub-license. The master license holders were authorized by the Curacao authorities to issue sub-licenses to iGaming operators. They were responsible for processing applications, due diligence, ongoing monitoring, and taking care of all renewals. But in 2023, everything changed.
Why it changed
In 2023, the licensing system underwent a significant overhaul. The master and sub-license structure was shelved and a new framework was introduced under the auspices and supervision of the Curacao Gaming Authority (CGA). This change aimed to establish a more cohesive regulatory framework and improve the jurisdiction’s reputation on the international stage.
This came about as after the COVID-19 pandemic, Curacao was asked by The Netherlands to tighten its rules by and regulations around iGaming in order to receive support and recovery funds.
The new regime
The changes implemented in 2023 and rolled out throughout 2024 and beyond have resulted in a new dawn for the Curacao regime. This more simplified structure offers two kinds of licenses: B2B licenses for service providers catering to businesses and B2C licenses for those interacting directly with players. Both are issued from the authorities with no intermediate ‘master licensee’.
One of the main changes to the regulatory framework is the strengthening of terms, conditions, standards, transparency, and operational requirements. This includes:
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Responsible Gambling: Operators must implement measures to promote responsible gambling.
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Financial Stability: Higher standards for financial stability are required for all operators and license holders.
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Local Presence: Operators must have a local office in Curacao.
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Player Protection and Transparency: Enhanced player protection measures and increased transparency are now mandatory.
The cost of acquiring and renewing the license has also increased. While it is still lower cost than many other jurisdictions, it now settles in the middle-tier of licensing costs and is higher than it was before.
If you want to get a Curacao license, you must meet the following criteria.
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Register a company in Curacao including a registered office and local representative.
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Provide a detailed description of all games offered in full compliance with the requirements of the GCB.
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Build a website which clearly publishes rules of use, terms and conditions, responsible gaming policies, restrictions for minors and Curacao residents, contact details, and complaint procedures.
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Create a unique domain and register it with GCB. The Curacao license covers a total of 40 domains, and any extra will incur additional costs.
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Create anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing policies that comply with Curacao requirements.
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Conduct regular audits of software and report to the GCB. Any changes or security incidents must be reported.
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A random number generator certificate, or equivalent, is required. All games must be independently certified and meet international standards.
The process for acquiring a Curacao license can be completed easily with Fast Offshore. We can help you establish your Curacao legal entity and prepare all the documents you need to satisfy the requirements. We can then apply and file your application on your behalf and monitor all subsequent steps, liaising with authorities when necessary. At the verification stage, we will also be on hand to help with any additional requests from the authorities. Once the license has been approved and you have paid the fee, we will also be by your side through all equipment inspections and to assist with all reporting and ongoing maintenance. Curacao licenses must be renewed every year and we can stay on top of this for you, ensuring no interruption of business activities or other obstacles.
Benefits of Curacao iGaming license
While the iGaming landscape in Curacao has changed, there are still many benefits to holding the Curacao license.
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Quick processing: Despite reforms and a number of obstacles and delays along the way, the wait time to get a license is not long when compared to some other jurisdictions. Once the documents have been gathered, they are submitted via a government portal, which significantly speeds up and simplifies the process.
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Just one license: Under the new regime, there is just one license to cover all iGaming activities, including betting, casino, eSports, lotteries, poker and more. This makes it easier and more affordable for operators to strengthen their portfolios.
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Tougher rules: While tougher rules and standards might be a headache, they ultimately benefit the player and operator. They increase player trust and confidence, which leads to more brand loyalty and higher spending. It also makes it easier to work with a wider range of international partners in software, payments, and innovation.
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Simplification: Getting a Curacao license is still easier than in many other jurisdictions. The process has been modernized and streamlined to benefit both the regulator and the operator.
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Better legal oversight: The new rules place an emphasis on protecting personal and player data as well as security, ensuring greater transparency and confidence.
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Tax advantages: Having an iGaming company in Curacao has a number of favorable tax benefits. Low rates of tax and no VAT mean operators can increase their profits and put these back into the business.
What it means for the future
As we move through 2025, we expect to get more and more inquiries for Curacao iGaming licenses. As the new framework is more solidified and things are clearer for service providers, regulators, and operators alike, the sector will go from strength to strength. We are seeing jurisdictions like Costa Rica and Anjouan cater to businesses on a budget, while Curacao will become a mid-tier license along with Kahnawake. Meanwhile, Malta and the Isle of Man will remain top-tier licenses due to their high costs and more complicated processes. For operators looking for a reliable, reputable, stable, and flexible license for all their iGaming needs, Curacao is one of the leading choices.
Contact Fast Offshore to find out more!