Skip Navigation
Understanding the Curacao Gaming Licence Framework
Curaçao continues to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions for online gambling companies seeking a reliable, cost-effective, and flexible solution to obtain a gaming licence. With the introduction of the National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard (LOK), the licensing regime has been significantly strengthened to align with international best practices.
The new structure is administered directly by the Curaçao Gaming Authority, operating under the Gaming Control Board (GCB). The previous master licence and sub-licence model has been replaced by a direct licensing framework for both B2B and B2C gaming licence holders.
A2CO supports clients throughout this process, offering complete guidance to apply for a Curaçao gambling licence, prepare your submission, and stay compliant with updated gaming regulations.
Types of Licences for Online Gaming and Gambling in Curaçao
Under the new regulatory model, operators can now apply for the following types of licences:
Curaçao Gaming Licence: Business-to-Consumer (B2C)
This is the most common online gaming licence for operators offering gambling services directly to players. It covers:
-
Online casino platforms
-
Sports and esports betting
-
Live dealer games
-
Lottery-style draws
-
Peer-to-peer skill games
B2C licence holders must meet strict requirements for responsible gaming policies, technical security, AML procedures, and fairness audits.
Business-to-Business (B2B)
A B2B Curacao gaming licence is intended for providers offering software, platforms, or infrastructure to B2C operators. It applies to:
-
White-label providers
-
Platform developers
-
Payment gateway operators
-
RNG or game engine developers
A2CO offers consultancy for both types of licences and will help structure your application for the most suitable route.
Curaçao Gaming Licence: Business-to-Consumer (B2C)
This is the most common online gaming licence for operators offering gambling services directly to players. It covers:
-
Online casino platforms
-
Sports and esports betting
-
Live dealer games
-
Lottery-style draws
-
Peer-to-peer skill games
B2C licence holders must meet strict requirements for responsible gaming policies, technical security, AML procedures, and fairness audits.
Business-to-Business (B2B)
A B2B Curacao gaming licence is intended for providers offering software, platforms, or infrastructure to B2C operators. It applies to:
-
White-label providers
-
Platform developers
-
Payment gateway operators
-
RNG or game engine developers
A2CO offers consultancy for both types of licences and will help structure your application for the most suitable route.
Applying for a Curaçao Gaming Licence: Process, Requirements, and Key Advantages
How to Apply for a Curaçao Gambling Licence
To apply for a Curaçao gaming licence, applicants must submit a complete application through the official GCB Licensing Portal. The process includes:
-
Registering a company in Curaçao with a registered office and a local director
-
Completing the online license application submission through the portal
-
Providing detailed documentation, including business plans, ownership structure, AML/CFT frameworks, and proof of funding
-
Undergoing two phases of review: initial screening and full assessment
A2CO can manage the full Curacao eGaming application process on your behalf and help with company formation, registered address, and director appointments.
Key Advantages of the Curaçao Gambling Licence
The Curaçao gambling licence is well known in the gaming industry for offering:
-
Low annual licence fees compared to other jurisdictions
-
Fast and efficient setup with transparent review timelines
-
The ability to operate multiple domains under a single licence
-
No restriction on game types, including casinos, sports betting, and lotteries
-
Flexible structures for operators, resellers, and white-label providers
Curaçao’s upgraded framework also helps build credibility with banks, payment providers, and software partners, especially for those seeking licensing in offshore but regulated jurisdictions.
A2CO will help you highlight these advantages of the Curaçao gambling licence when preparing your business case or investor presentation.
Understanding Licence Requirements and Responsible Gaming Policies
To obtain a gambling licence in Curaçao, all applicants must satisfy core requirements defined by the GCB. These include:
-
Formation of a company in Curaçao, with substance and economic presence
-
Submission of detailed documentation for all directors and shareholders
-
Financial transparency, including source of funds and projected revenues
-
Adoption of technical and operational responsible gaming safeguards
-
Ongoing compliance with AML/CFT laws, with regular internal reviews
-
Use of secure, tested software with verifiable outcomes
We also support clients in meeting the expectations of international gaming regulators, including those who follow FATF and ESG reporting standards.
Explore our related service: AML and KYC Outsourcing
Costs Involved in Obtaining a Curaçao Gaming Licence
The cost of a Curacao gambling licence will vary depending on the complexity of your operation. You should account for:
-
Application fees and due diligence costs paid to the GCB
-
Annual licence fees and domain registration fees
-
Legal and advisory support for AML policies and compliance
-
Legal and advisory support for AML policies and compliance
In general, total expenses range from €20,000 to €50,000 per year. These figures are significantly lower than costs in Malta, Gibraltar, or other high-regulation jurisdictions.
The Role of the Curaçao Gaming Authority and Regulatory Oversight
The Curaçao Gaming Authority plays a central role in protecting player interests and maintaining industry standards. Its responsibilities include:
-
Evaluating and approving all license applications
-
Conducting risk assessments and background checks
-
Enforcing AML/CFT obligations for all license holders
-
Inspecting and auditing technical systems and responsible gaming tools
-
Suspending or revoking licences when obligations are not met
By strengthening regulatory oversight, Curaçao has become more aligned with expectations from financial institutions, international partners, and the International Association of Gaming Regulators.
What the Curaçao Licence Covers for Online Gaming and Casinos
The Curaçao licence supports a broad range of gambling activities, allowing licensees to operate:
-
Online casino websites
-
Sports and virtual sports betting portals
-
Lotteries and sweepstakes
-
Peer-to-peer games and digital competitions
-
Hybrid games involving crypto or tokens
Many businesses choose Curaçao for its ability to cover both traditional and offshore games of hazard under a single licence.
How to Apply for a Curaçao Gambling Licence
To apply for a Curaçao gaming licence, applicants must submit a complete application through the official GCB Licensing Portal. The process includes:
-
Registering a company in Curaçao with a registered office and a local director
-
Completing the online license application submission through the portal
-
Providing detailed documentation, including business plans, ownership structure, AML/CFT frameworks, and proof of funding
-
Undergoing two phases of review: initial screening and full assessment
A2CO can manage the full Curacao eGaming application process on your behalf and help with company formation, registered address, and director appointments.
Key Advantages of the Curaçao Gambling Licence
The Curaçao gambling licence is well known in the gaming industry for offering:
-
Low annual licence fees compared to other jurisdictions
-
Fast and efficient setup with transparent review timelines
-
The ability to operate multiple domains under a single licence
-
No restriction on game types, including casinos, sports betting, and lotteries
-
Flexible structures for operators, resellers, and white-label providers
Curaçao’s upgraded framework also helps build credibility with banks, payment providers, and software partners, especially for those seeking licensing in offshore but regulated jurisdictions.
A2CO will help you highlight these advantages of the Curaçao gambling licence when preparing your business case or investor presentation.
Understanding Licence Requirements and Responsible Gaming Policies
To obtain a gambling licence in Curaçao, all applicants must satisfy core requirements defined by the GCB. These include:
-
Formation of a company in Curaçao, with substance and economic presence
-
Submission of detailed documentation for all directors and shareholders
-
Financial transparency, including source of funds and projected revenues
-
Adoption of technical and operational responsible gaming safeguards
-
Ongoing compliance with AML/CFT laws, with regular internal reviews
-
Use of secure, tested software with verifiable outcomes
We also support clients in meeting the expectations of international gaming regulators, including those who follow FATF and ESG reporting standards.
Explore our related service: AML and KYC Outsourcing
Costs Involved in Obtaining a Curaçao Gaming Licence
The cost of a Curacao gambling licence will vary depending on the complexity of your operation. You should account for:
-
Application fees and due diligence costs paid to the GCB
-
Annual licence fees and domain registration fees
-
Legal and advisory support for AML policies and compliance
-
Legal and advisory support for AML policies and compliance
In general, total expenses range from €20,000 to €50,000 per year. These figures are significantly lower than costs in Malta, Gibraltar, or other high-regulation jurisdictions.
The Role of the Curaçao Gaming Authority and Regulatory Oversight
The Curaçao Gaming Authority plays a central role in protecting player interests and maintaining industry standards. Its responsibilities include:
-
Evaluating and approving all license applications
-
Conducting risk assessments and background checks
-
Enforcing AML/CFT obligations for all license holders
-
Inspecting and auditing technical systems and responsible gaming tools
-
Suspending or revoking licences when obligations are not met
By strengthening regulatory oversight, Curaçao has become more aligned with expectations from financial institutions, international partners, and the International Association of Gaming Regulators.
What the Curaçao Licence Covers for Online Gaming and Casinos
The Curaçao licence supports a broad range of gambling activities, allowing licensees to operate:
-
Online casino websites
-
Sports and virtual sports betting portals
-
Lotteries and sweepstakes
-
Peer-to-peer games and digital competitions
-
Hybrid games involving crypto or tokens
Many businesses choose Curaçao for its ability to cover both traditional and offshore games of hazard under a single licence.
Transitioning from a Master Licence to the New Licensing Model
Under the new framework, all former master licence holders and sub-licensees must now apply directly to the CGA for their own licences.
If you are operating under a historic Curacao gambling license or working with a white-label provider, you must review your structure and transition to the new model. A2CO offers readiness assessments and application migration planning to ensure compliance.
Why Gaming Companies Choose to Operate from Curaçao
Operators across the gambling industry select Curaçao for a number of reasons:
-
A business-friendly regulatory environment
-
Competitive tax rates and simple banking access
-
Fast and affordable online gaming licence setup
-
Global acceptance and operational flexibility
-
A proven track record in supporting online casinos and betting platforms
Our Services
-
Curaçao Gaming Licence Application Support: We oversee the full process from registration to approval.
-
Guidance on Licence Types and Structure: Tailored advice on B2B, B2C, and multi-vertical licences.
-
Assistance with Documentation and Policies: Including gaming policy, AML manuals, business plans, and risk controls.
-
Support for Online Gaming Licence Application Submission: Complete coordination with the GCB licensing portal.
-
Compliance with Curaçao’s Responsible Gaming Requirements: We help implement player protection tools and audit-ready processes.
-
Company Setup and Registered Office in Curaçao: All-inclusive support to meet local substance requirements.
-
Post-Licensing Support and Ongoing Advisory: Stay compliant and future-ready with our managed advisory solutions.
Why Choose A2CO
-
Expert support from application to licence issuance and beyond
-
Experience with both new and transitioning Curaçao licence holders
-
Technical and legal insight into the Curaçao gaming industry
-
Practical, time-saving processes with transparent pricing
-
Full access to our compliance, corporate, and strategy teams
Frequently Asked Questions
A Curaçao gaming licence typically costs between €20,000 and €50,000 per year, including licence fees, company setup in Curaçao, and compliance services.
To apply for a Curaçao gaming licence, you need a company in Curaçao, a resident director, technical documentation, AML policies, and responsible gaming procedures.
The standard timeframe to obtain a Curaçao gambling licence is 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the completeness of your gaming licence application.
A Curaçao online gaming licence is faster and more cost-effective, while a Malta gaming licence provides access to EU-regulated markets but involves stricter requirements and higher costs.
Yes, the Curaçao gambling licence is recognised by most online gaming platforms, payment providers, and service partners worldwide, though local laws still apply.
