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Here’s a general guide on how to get a gambling license:

Step 1 Choose the Jurisdiction

Research different jurisdictions to find one that aligns with your business needs. Some well-known options include the Vanuatu Gaming Authority (VGA), Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA), Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Kahnawake Gaming Commission (Canada), and Vanuatu Gambling Authority. Some regions have strict rules and higher fees, while others offer a quicker and more affordable approval process.

Step 2 Register Your Business

First, the company needs to be officially registered in the country or region where it’s applying. In most cases, businesses choose offshore jurisdictions for their flexible regulations and tax benefits. This means registering a legal entity—whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or equivalent—and submitting details about the ownership structure, shareholders, and directors. 

Some regulators require the business to have a physical office there or a representative in their jurisdiction for oversight, while others allow remote registration. If you’re considering an offshore setup, MGL can guide you through the process and help with everything from paperwork to compliance.

Step 3 Prepare Necessary Documents

Gather personal documents for owners and key employees, such as passport copies, utility bills, clean criminal record, CV, and proof of funds. The exact list of required documents depends on the jurisdiction. For example, in addition to the documents mentioned above, obtaining a Malta Gambling License requires a Source of Wealth Declaration, a Personal Declaration Form, and a Statement of Affairs template. 

In addition to personal and incorporated documentation, you need to implement anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies. This includes verifying player identities, monitoring transactions, and ensuring all funds are legitimate. 

Many regulators also require operators implement a responsible gaming policy to protect players, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and help for those struggling with gambling addiction.

Step 4 Pay Application Fees

Each jurisdiction has its own fee structure. In some cases, payment is required before submitting documents, while in others, it is due afterward. Application fees also vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. For example, a Kahnawake Gaming License costs around $40,000 for the first year, while a Malta license can range from €25,000 to €100,000, depending on the business size and type.

Step 5 Submit the Application

On top of that, businesses must pay application fees, yearly renewal costs, and gambling taxes, which vary depending on the licensing jurisdiction. Once approved, operators must submit regular reports and undergo inspections to keep their license valid. 

Step 6 Software and Gaming Compliance

In some cases, such as Kahnawake, a company's servers must be located within the licensing country for better oversight.

Step 7 Await Approval

The licensing authority runs background checks on owners and executives to ensure they have no criminal records. They also review financial records to confirm the company has enough funds to operate smoothly and cover payouts.

Once everything is in order, the regulator grants the license, allowing the business to operate legally.

The time it takes to get a license can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the jurisdiction. Some places, like Anjouan and Vanuatu, process applications quickly, around 2-4 or 4-8 weeks, while others, like Malta and the UK, require more time, 4-8 and 6-12 months.

Step 8 Maintain Compliance

After getting the license, the company must stay compliant, submit regular reports, and pass periodic inspections to keep its license valid.