Curacao Gaming License

Curacao has been a prominent jurisdiction for online gambling since 1993, following the enactment of the National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard. The first license was issued in 1996 by Curacao eGaming, making it one of the oldest regulators in the industry.

Recent Regulatory Changes

As of October 1, 2024, Curacao eGaming (Cyberluck Curaçao N.V.) ceased all licensing operations due to restructuring within the jurisdiction. Consequently, all existing Curacao eGaming (1668/JAZ) licenses expired, and operators were required to transition to the new licensing framework under the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB).

Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB)

The GCB is now the sole authority responsible for issuing and overseeing online gaming licenses in Curacao. This transition aims to enhance transparency, enforce stricter Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, and promote responsible gambling practices.

Licensing Process and Costs

Operators must apply directly to the GCB through the official portal. The licensing process includes:

Due Diligence Checks: Scrutiny of company ownership, financial stability, and key personnel.
Compliance Requirements: Adherence to AML/KYC regulations and implementation of responsible gambling measures.
Fee Structure: While specific fees are not publicly disclosed, operators should anticipate costs for application processing, annual renewals, and compliance audits.

The GCB has introduced a digital licensing seal that operators can display on their websites upon successful licensing. This seal serves as a mark of legitimacy and adherence to regulatory standards.

Accreditation Services by Curaçao eGaming

Although no longer issuing licenses, Curaçao eGaming offers accreditation services to assist operators in navigating the new licensing process. These services include:

Application Assistance: Guidance through the GCB licensing application.
Business Structuring: Advice on company formation and organizational setup.
Documentation Support: Help with preparing and updating necessary forms and records.

Operators that complete the accreditation process can display an Accreditation Seal, indicating their commitment to compliance and best practices.

Important Considerations

Transition Period: Operators previously licensed under Curacao eGaming must transition to the GCB licensing framework to maintain legal operations.
Regulatory Compliance: Strict adherence to AML/KYC regulations and responsible gambling measures is mandatory.
Market Access: While Curacao offers a favorable tax environment, operators should be aware of the evolving regulatory landscape and potential impacts on market access.