Alderney Gambling License

Introduction to Alderney Gambling Licensing

If you’re planning to launch an online casino, sportsbook, or any digital betting platform, obtaining an Alderney gambling license can be a strategic choice. The Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC) is one of the most reputable gambling regulators in the world, offering strong credibility, player trust, and access to international markets.

This guide provides everything you need to know about acquiring an Alderney gambling license, including license types, application procedures, regulatory requirements, and long-term compliance.

Why Choose Alderney for a Gambling License?

Global Reputation: Alderney is recognized as a Tier-1 licensing jurisdiction with high regulatory standards.

Low Tax Burden: No VAT or gaming duty imposed by the AGCC.

EU Market Access: Though not an EU member, Alderney licensees can serve players across Europe.

Stability and Transparency: Long-standing regulatory framework with consistent enforcement.

Trusted by Payment Providers: Alderney-licensed operators enjoy strong banking relationships and payment processing access.

Flexible Structure: Suitable for both B2B and B2C businesses, including startups, crypto casinos, and platform providers.

Types of Alderney Gambling Licenses

AGCC offers several licenses tailored to the nature of your gambling business:

1. Category 1 License (B2C)

This license allows companies to:

• Register player accounts;

• Handle player funds;

• Conduct direct customer-facing iGaming operations (casino, poker, sports betting, etc.);

• Maintain full operational control over user acquisition, KYC, and payout systems.

Best For:

• Online casinos

• Sportsbook operators

• Fantasy sports platforms

2. Category 2 License (B2B)

Allows businesses to:

• Provide gambling platform services;

• Host games on behalf of other licensed operators;

• Support technical infrastructure for B2C entities.

Best For:

• Game developers

• White-label platform providers

• Hosting services for casino brands

3. Associate Certificates

For entities operating within Alderney data centers (e.g., hosting services or cloud-based iGaming tech providers). These entities support Category 1 or Category 2 licensees.

4. Temporary Licenses

Short-term solution (up to 29 days) that allows businesses to:

• Test their platform and processes;

• Conduct closed beta launches;

• Validate system integrity before full-scale licensing.

Detailed Comparison: Category 1 vs Category 2

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an Alderney gambling license, your company must:

• Be incorporated in Alderney or another approved jurisdiction (e.g., UK, Isle of Man);

• Submit key information about ownership, directors, and management structure;

• Provide a detailed business plan with projected financials;

• Show evidence of technical capabilities and risk management;

• Meet responsible gambling standards and AML/KYC obligations;

• Maintain physical presence in approved data centers if needed.

Required Documents

You will need to prepare and submit the following:

• Incorporation certificate and articles of association;

• Shareholder and director IDs and proof of address;

• Detailed business plan and marketing strategy;

• Description of gambling products offered and operational model;

• Technical documentation (RNG certification, backend structure, API);

• Hosting agreements and server locations;

• Compliance policies (AML, fraud prevention, responsible gambling);

• Financial projections, funding structure, and source of funds declaration.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Pre-application Consultation

• Engage with AGCC or licensed agents to clarify structure, timing, and compliance expectations.

Step 2: Document Preparation

• Assemble all documentation, technical certifications, and incorporation details.

Step 3: Formal Application Submission

• Submit application forms and pay initial application fees.

Step 4: Due Diligence

• Background checks on shareholders, UBOs, directors, and technical partners.

Step 5: Technical Evaluation

• AGCC performs a platform audit and data security assessment.

Step 6: Final Approval and Licensing

• Once approved, your license is issued and added to the public register.

Timeline

• Standard Application: 6 to 12 weeks;

• Expedited Review: Available for low-risk or well-prepared applications;

• Temporary License: Issued within 10–14 days.

Ongoing Compliance Requirements

Once licensed, companies must:

• Conduct annual independent system audits (IT, finance, AML);

• Submit quarterly and annual financial statements;

• Maintain player funds segregation and escrow systems;

• Operate under approved AML, KYC, and responsible gambling policies;

• Retain full transactional logs for a minimum of 6 years;

• Notify AGCC of any material changes (ownership, platform, etc.).

Non-compliance may result in license suspension or financial penalties.

Technology, Infrastructure & Hosting

Hosting options include:

• Onshore: Using AGCC-approved Alderney data centers;

• Offshore: In pre-approved international jurisdictions (UK, IOM);

• Hybrid: Cloud environments (AWS, Azure) that meet encryption and audit trail requirements.

Best Practices:

• Employ DDoS protection and intrusion detection systems;

• Enable 2FA for admin panels;

• Regular system patching and ISO 27001 certification.

Taxation & Financial Advantages

• No gambling tax levied on gross gaming revenue;

• No VAT on gaming services;

• No withholding tax on player winnings;

• Corporate taxes apply based on where your business is domiciled, not where it is licensed.

Alderney’s tax neutrality makes it a strong base for high-volume international operators.

Alderney vs Other Gambling Jurisdictions

Licensing Checklist

• Incorporate company in approved jurisdiction

•  Secure business plan and financial model

• Prepare AML, KYC, and responsible gambling policies

• Choose hosting infrastructure and secure ISO certificates

• Apply for Category 1 or 2 license based on your business model

• Undergo technical audit and background checks

• Implement data security protocols and reporting procedures

• Maintain ongoing compliance through audits and filings

Best Use Cases for Alderney Licensing

• Online Casinos seeking Tier-1 legitimacy;

• Sportsbook Operators targeting EU and Asian markets;

• Platform Providers (B2B) servicing multiple gaming clients;

• Crypto iGaming Brands with hybrid transaction models;

• Startups looking to validate product with temporary license.

Contact Us for Alderney Licensing Assistance

Our legal and technical consultants specialize in navigating the AGCC licensing process. We offer:

• End-to-end application handling;

• Technical platform audits;

• Compliance documentation drafting;

• Post-licensing operational support.

Get in touch today to begin your journey with one of the most respected iGaming jurisdictions in the world.