Gambling license in Anjouan

Introduction

In the fast-moving world of iGaming, securing a reliable and cost-effective gambling license is essential for launching and scaling a legal online casino, sports betting platform, or any other real-money gaming operation. One of the most popular offshore licensing jurisdictions in 2025 is Anjouan, an autonomous island within the Union of the Comoros.

The Anjouan gambling license is increasingly favored by startups, crypto operators, and businesses targeting emerging markets. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about obtaining a gambling license in Anjouan—from the legal framework and application process to associated costs, benefits, and compliance requirements.

Why Choose Anjouan for Your Online Gambling License?

The Anjouan license offers multiple advantages for digital gaming operators worldwide:

• Fast application processing (typically 2–4 weeks)

• Low licensing costs compared to Malta, Isle of Man, or Curaçao

• Crypto-friendly regulatory environment

• 0% corporate tax and no gambling tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR)

• One license covers multiple gaming verticals

• Minimal bureaucracy and flexible compliance standards

Whether you’re launching an online sportsbook, casino, lottery platform, or a multi-vertical gaming business, Anjouan offers a streamlined and scalable route to market.

Additionally, Anjouan’s commitment to digital innovation makes it an ideal location for next-gen gaming projects involving blockchain, AI, VR, and even metaverse integration.

Types of Gambling Activities Covered

Anjouan provides a single unified license that permits a broad range of online gambling services, including:

• Online casino (slots, table games, live dealer)

• Sports betting (pre-match and in-play)

• Poker

• Lottery and bingo

• eSports betting

• Skill games and fantasy sports

This consolidated approach simplifies regulatory management, allowing licensees to scale across platforms, domains, and even white-label and turnkey environments.

Legal Framework and Regulatory Authority

Anjouan’s gambling sector is regulated by local authorities that oversee international operators under a clear legislative framework focusing on:

• Fair gaming practices

• Anti-money laundering (AML)

• Know-your-customer (KYC) compliance

• Responsible gambling

• Data protection and cybersecurity

Though not as widely known as European authorities, Anjouan regulators enforce international standards. Operators must provide internal controls, certified games, and demonstrate technical and operational integrity.

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

The licensing process includes:

1. Business Incorporation – Establish a local or offshore legal entity.

2. Document Preparation – Submit ID, proof of address, business plan, game policies, AML/KYC frameworks, etc.

3. Application Submission – Complete forms and pay initial fees.

4. Due Diligence – Background checks on directors and UBOs (Ultimate Beneficial Owners).

5. License Issuance – Once approved, the license is granted and operations may begin.

Processing typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on documentation and responsiveness.

Key Licensing Requirements

To qualify for an Anjouan gambling license, applicants must:

• Be 18+ and legally eligible

• Submit a viable business model and system architecture

• Implement responsible gambling tools (e.g., deposit limits, self-exclusion)

• Provide comprehensive AML/KYC documentation

• Host systems in secure environments with disaster recovery

Having a dedicated compliance officer is strongly advised. Many licensees also retain legal or IT advisors to help meet ongoing requirements.

Licensing Costs and Associated Fees

Anjouan is cost-effective, making it ideal for startups. Estimated fees include:

• Initial license fee: approximately $17,000 USD

• Annual renewal: approximately $13,000 USD

• Compliance fee: typically under $2,000 per year

• Additional domains: approximately $500 per year for each beyond the first two

• Technical infrastructure and hosting: based on your provider

Compared to major jurisdictions where annual costs can exceed $50,000–$100,000, Anjouan offers a significantly lower barrier to entry.

Crypto and Payment Integrations

Anjouan is highly compatible with crypto-based gaming models. Features include:

• Acceptance of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins

• Blockchain-based “provably fair” systems

• NFT reward integration

• Smart contract-driven game logic

Platforms may also integrate with PSPs, offshore banks, e-wallets, and crypto wallets. However, AML compliance and geo-blocking of restricted jurisdictions are mandatory.

Compliance, Reporting and Renewal

Operators must maintain:

• Regular AML/KYC checks

• Internal audit logs

• Up-to-date privacy policies

• Secure data infrastructure

• Monthly financial reports and fairness logs

Annual license renewals require:

• Updated company documentation

• Proof of ongoing AML and data security compliance

• Operational and financial summaries

Some licensees opt for independent compliance audits to maintain credibility and transparency.

Target Markets and Jurisdictional Restrictions

Restricted jurisdictions include:

• United Kingdom

• United States

• European Union countries

• Australia

• Countries on the FATF blacklist

Permissible target regions include:

• Latin America

• Southeast Asia

• Africa

• Eastern Europe

• Non-restricted areas of the Middle East

Operators must implement geo-fencing, IP tracking, and user verification systems to enforce these restrictions effectively.

Pros and Cons of the Anjouan License

Advantages

• Fast and affordable setup

• Crypto-friendly environment

• Unified license for all major game types

• No corporate or gambling taxes

• Startup-friendly regulatory approach

Disadvantages

• Lower international recognition

• Limited access to Tier-1 payment partners

• Ineligible for heavily regulated markets (UK, EU, US)

Ideal Use Cases

This license is ideal for:

• iGaming startups with limited budgets

• Crypto casino and betting platforms

• White-label casino providers

• Operators targeting unregulated or emerging regions

• B2B and affiliate-driven businesses

Ongoing Compliance Best Practices

To maintain good standing:

• Appoint a compliance officer

• Establish internal risk management systems

• Monitor transactions for unusual activity

• Provide 24/7 customer support

• Ensure transparency in promotions and terms

Choosing a Licensing Consultant or Provider

Professional iGaming consultancies can assist with:

• Company formation

• Legal and compliance document preparation

• Staff training and compliance frameworks

• Payment integration

• Turnkey platform solutions (white-label, game content, software)

Working with a trusted provider can save time, reduce risk, and accelerate launch.

Technical Hosting and Security Requirements

Licensed platforms must maintain:

• 99.9% server uptime (dedicated or cloud)

• SSL encryption for all data transmissions

• Firewall and DDoS protection

• Encrypted, backed-up user data

• Real-time monitoring for suspicious behavior

Hosting with ISO/IEC 27001-certified providers is highly recommended.

AML/KYC Software Integration Tools

Top integration solutions include:

• Jumio

• Shufti Pro

• ComplyAdvantage

• SumSub

These platforms offer document verification, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, and risk scoring—all crucial for compliance.

White-Label and Turnkey Casino Models

Anjouan’s license supports white-label services, including:

• Branded front-end websites

• Shared gaming and technical infrastructure

• Revenue share or flat-fee business models

• Pre-integrated games and payment providers

This approach is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to enter the iGaming space with reduced capital and operational responsibilities.

Jurisdiction Comparison Table

The Anjouan gambling license presents a highly attractive option for gaming entrepreneurs seeking speed, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. While it may lack the prestige of top-tier European regulators, it offers the perfect launchpad for operators ready to grow and innovate.

If you’re launching a crypto casino, white-label solution, or regional sportsbook, Anjouan delivers the legal and operational structure needed to succeed in 2025 and beyond.