Gambling license in Curacao

Launch Your Gaming Business in Curacao

Curacao is one of the most popular jurisdictions for online gambling worldwide. Licensed by the Curacao eGaming Authority, a Curacao gambling license allows companies to operate legally and access international markets while maintaining regulatory credibility and investor trust.

A Curacao license is recognized globally, providing legal certainty for online casinos, sportsbooks, lotteries, and other gaming operations.

Key Regulatory Facts – Curacao Gambling License

• Regulator: Curacao eGaming Authority
• License type: Master License & Sub-License (online gambling / interactive gaming)
• Legal framework: Curacao Gambling Licensing Regulations
• Foreign ownership: Allowed (up to 100%)
• Company formation timeline: Typically 1–2 weeks
• Licensing process timeline: 2–4 weeks for sub-license
• Ongoing obligations: AML / CFT compliance, reporting, annual fees

Key Benefits of a Curacao Gambling License

• Legal authorization for online casinos, sportsbooks, and lotteries
• Access to international banking and payment service providers
• Investor and partner confidence
• Global scalability and market flexibility
• Lower cost and faster timeline compared to EU licenses

Licensing Authority

• Regulator: Curacao eGaming Authority
• License type: Online gambling / interactive gaming
• Foreign ownership: 100% allowed

Curacao eGaming supervises all licensed operators, focusing on operational substance, AML/CFT compliance, and financial transparency.

Company Formation Requirements

Before applying for a license, a local corporate entity must be established.

Common structure:

• Private Limited Company (B.V.) – fully compliant with Curacao regulations
• Branch of foreign company – requires local registration and a local representative

Key steps:

• Incorporation and registration with Curacao Chamber of Commerce
• Local bank account setup (optional, depending on PSP)
• Appointment of directors and compliance officer
• Registered office / business address
• Internal governance and risk policies

Licensing Process – Step by Step

1. Establish a local company (B.V.) or branch
2. Apply for a sub-license under a Curacao Master License
3. Submit business plan, financial projections, and company documents
4. Provide AML / CFT framework and IT security policies
5. Curacao eGaming conducts due diligence on directors and shareholders
6. Regulatory review and clarifications
7. License approval and issuance

Timeline: Typically 2–4 weeks for sub-license; can vary depending on completeness of documentation.

Governance & Compliance Requirements

• Fit & proper directors and management
• Transparent ownership disclosure
• AML / CFT compliance officer
• Internal control and risk management procedures
• IT systems and cybersecurity measures

Operational substance is required; shell companies are not permitted.

Banking & Payment Infrastructure

Curacao license holders gain access to:

• International banks and payment service providers
• Payment processing for online gaming transactions
• Secure fund management systems

Banking approval depends on transparency, compliance, and source-of-funds documentation.

Ongoing Obligations

Licensed operators must:

• Maintain AML / CFT compliance
• Conduct internal audits
• Submit periodic reports to Curacao eGaming
• Update governance and IT security policies
• Pay annual license and supervisory fees

Non-compliance can lead to fines, suspension, or revocation.

Estimated Costs & First-Year Budget

• Application & regulatory fees: 5,000 – 10,000 €
• Company incorporation & registration: 1,500 – 3,500 €
• Registered office & administrative costs: 1,000 – 3,000 € per year
• Compliance and IT setup: 5,000 – 15,000 €
• Estimated first-year budget: 12,000 – 30,000+ € (excluding operating capital)

Who Should Apply

Curacao gambling licenses are suitable for:

• Online casinos targeting global markets
• Sports betting platforms
• Interactive lottery operators
• B2B gaming service providers
• Payment & fintech partners supporting gaming operations

FAQ — Curacao Gambling License

Can foreign companies apply for a Curacao license?

Yes, foreign companies can apply, usually through a local B.V. or branch. Full compliance with Curacao regulations is required.

Is a local bank account required?

Optional for operations, but required for payment processing with some PSPs.

How long does the licensing process take?

Typically 2–4 weeks for sub-license, depending on documentation and due diligence.

What are the ongoing compliance obligations?

Operators must maintain AML/CFT, internal audits, reporting, and IT security.

Can I operate globally with this license?

Yes, Curacao licenses are internationally recognized, allowing operations across multiple jurisdictions.

What happens if compliance is not maintained?

Non-compliance may result in fines, suspension, or revocation.