Gambling License

Renewal

Renewing a gambling license is critical to keeping your business compliant and operational. Here's what you need to know:

Key Steps:

• Start Early: Begin the renewal process well before your license expires.

• Prepare Documents: Financial statements, compliance reports, and technical audits are often required.

• Understand Costs: Fees vary by jurisdiction

• Meet Compliance Standards: Ensure financial stability, responsible gambling measures, and technical security.

Common Issues:

• Compliance Violations: Past fines or missed requirements can delay or deny renewal.

• Technical Hurdles: Outdated systems or security gaps can complicate the process.

• Financial Instability: Incomplete or inaccurate financial records may lead to rejection.

If Denied:

• Appeal: Address the issues raised and submit supporting documents.

• Explore Alternatives: Consider licenses from jurisdictions like Kahnawake or Anjouan.

Quick Comparison of Jurisdictions:

Starting early, staying compliant, and maintaining financial and technical standards will ensure a smooth renewal process.

How to Renew Your Gambling License

Renewing your gambling license varies depending on the jurisdiction, so it’s crucial to stay on top of local regulations to keep your business running smoothly.

Starting Your Renewal

Begin the process early since each jurisdiction has its own approach. Here are examples from Curaçao and Malta:

In Curacao, operators must reapply every three years ^[2]. Starting in September 2024, the National Ordinance for Games of Chance will require operators to:

• Pay an annual fee of ANG 48,000

• Make monthly payments of ANG 4,000

• Cover due diligence fees ranging from ANG 250 to 500 per person

In Malta, the renewal process is handled through a digital Licensee Portal, which offers:

• Real-time tracking of application status

• Digital submission of required documents

• Built-in compliance monitoring ^[4]

Once you’ve initiated the renewal process, gather the necessary documents to support your application.

Required Documents

Here’s what you’ll typically need to provide:

Check with your specific jurisdiction for any additional requirements.

Rules by Location

Costs and requirements also differ by location. Below are some key details:

• Malta: Application fee is EUR 5,000. B2C license fees range from EUR 10,000 to 25,000, with compliance contributions based on revenue.

• Curacao (current system): Initial application fee is ANG 36,000. Monthly costs are ANG 7,000, and the fixed annual component is NAf 100,000 (around USD 55,555) ^[2].

• Isle of Man: Administration fee is EUR 6,200. Annual fees range from EUR 6,200 to 61,700, depending on the license type.

Understanding these specifics will help you navigate the renewal process more efficiently.

Meeting Renewal Requirements

Fulfilling these requirements is critical for renewing your license successfully.

Financial Requirements

Demonstrating financial stability is a key part of the renewal process. You’ll need to submit audited financial statements to showcase your financial health. Here’s a typical breakdown:

Technical Standards

Adhering to technical standards is non-negotiable for operators seeking renewal. Some of the critical technical elements include:

• System Security Protocols, such as:

  • Regular penetration testing

  • Strong encryption methods to protect data

  • Secure systems for processing payments

For example, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) requires biennial audits covering tax compliance, customer complaints, and fair play practices. Similarly, the Isle of Man mandates annual independent audits.

Company Structure Updates

Keeping corporate records updated is essential.

To meet this requirement, prepare and submit the following:

• Police clearance certificates for new stakeholders

• Updated income proofs for individuals like Ultimate Beneficial Owners, Beneficial Owners, Shareholders, and Directors

If your business model changes, document all updates carefully and maintain open communication with regulatory authorities to prevent delays in the renewal process.

Common Renewal Problems

Renewing licenses comes with its own set of challenges, and operators need to tackle these effectively to stay compliant and operational.

Compliance Challenges

Compliance violations can lead to hefty fines, as shown in recent cases:

One of the toughest aspects is verifying the source of funds. A survey found that 40% of operators take 6–12 months to meet compliance requirements when entering new markets. To streamline this, operators must adopt advanced identity verification and fraud prevention strategies.

Financial Considerations

License renewals can be expensive, with costs varying significantly depending on the jurisdiction:

• Malta: Annual fees start at €80,000, plus a turnover tax.

• Curacao: Up to 2% income tax, with renewal costs amounting to 6% of total sales.

• Isle of Man: £50,000 per year for a Network Services license and £35,000 per year for a Full license.

Setting aside a dedicated budget for renewal expenses, including licensing and compliance, is crucial for smooth operations.

Technical Hurdles

Technical issues often complicate the renewal process. Common challenges include:

• Security Updates: Upgrading encryption methods and securing payment gateways.

• Responsible Gaming Tools: Adding self-exclusion options and deposit limits as required by regulators.

• Platform Compatibility: Ensuring platforms meet security standards across all devices.

Regular system audits and thorough documentation of technical updates can help operators identify and address issues before they jeopardize license renewals.

When Renewal is Denied

Once you’ve tackled renewal requirements and common challenges, it’s important to know your options if your renewal gets denied.

Why Renewals Get Denied

Renewal denials often stem from specific issues, as shown below:

Filing an Appeal

Appealing a denial requires quick action and varies by jurisdiction:

1. California operators: You’ll receive a Notice of Defense form. Respond within 30 days to maintain your right to appeal and, if eligible, secure an interim license for continued operations ^[12].

2. Provide documentation addressing the denial reasons, such as updated compliance records or financial statements.

Other Options

If your denial is final, you might explore alternative licensing paths:

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission, active since 1996, is a go-to option for operators denied elsewhere.