Every iGaming operator needs to obtain a gambling license. This is a document that allows online casinos and sportsbooks to work legally. Operating without a license is short-sighted and risky due to the possibility of legal consequences such as fines, platform blocking or even imprisonment.
Why else is getting a license beneficial for operators? It allows you to buy official games and software, as well as use widespread payment systems on the website. Moreover, the license is the key to opening corporate bank and merchant accounts. Last but not least, a licensed iGaming project will generate more trust among customers who do not want to gamble on illegal platforms.
As you can see, a gaming license is essential. Its acquisition is worth it, despite all the difficulties and expenses. But where and how to get a permit? We recommend considering Anjouan as an option for legalizing your gambling business. In this article we will explain why this jurisdiction is an excellent choice even for beginners and what is needed to obtain an Anjouan iGaming license.
Is Anjouan a new Curaçao?
Anjouan is a small island in the Comoros archipelago, which is predicted to be the second Curaçao in gambling licensing. Little known in the industry until this year, Anjouan has attracted the attention of many online casino and betting operators recently. The catalyst for the sharp increase in interest, of course, was changes in the gambling legislation in Curaçao. We are talking about tightening requirements for operators and increasing licensing fees. These factors, as well as the fact that Curaçao is currently undergoing a transition period and the new licensing procedure has not yet been perfected, are forcing operators to look for other options to legalize their business. And then Anjouan enters the arena.
Comoros is a fairly poor archipelago, its economy depends primarily on agriculture. That is why today local authorities are trying to attract foreign investment and are doing this, in particular, by issuing licenses to online gambling operators.
The Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board (ABGB) is responsible for licensing gambling on the island. This body was established in 2005 when the iGaming licensing law came into force.
An Anjouan’s license has many advantages. Let’s talk about them and determine whether this jurisdiction can take Curaçao’s place of one of the most popular licensing jurisdictions.
Advantages of the Anjouan gaming license
So, why choose an Anjouan license? Here are the main pros of the local permit:
- Anjouan has one of the lowest licensing fees in the industry
- The license acquisition procedure in the jurisdiction is straightforward and the requirements for operators are quite soft
- Anjouan permit covers all types of gambling, meaning you don’t need to obtain separate licenses for the online casino, betting platform, or even B2B services
- Anjouan license allows operators to work in most countries of the world, however, local licensees cannot enter the US, Austrian, Australian, Comorian, French, German, Dutch, Spanish, and UK markets
- There is no tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR) in the jurisdiction
- The licensing process is fast: you can get a local license in about three weeks
Addition from Chat GPT
Acquiring an Anjouan gambling license offers several compelling advantages for iGaming operators. First, it is cost-effective, with relatively low fees and taxes, making it a financially attractive option. The licensing process is streamlined and efficient, allowing for quicker market entry.
Anjouan is a recognized offshore jurisdiction with a stable political environment, providing credibility to operators. This license also grants flexibility, permitting a wide range of gaming activities and products. Moreover, it offers tax benefits and does not require operators to establish a physical presence in Anjouan.
Comparing it to other popular licenses like Malta or the Isle of Man, the Anjouan license stands out due to its affordability, simplicity, and lower regulatory burden. For operators seeking to minimize costs while maintaining credibility and operational flexibility, the Anjouan gambling license can be a highly appealing choice.
How to get an iGaming license in Anjouan?
It’s time to consider what an operator needs to do to obtain a license in Anjouan. Despite the local authorities’ openness to the gambling business, the ABGB still values its reputation and doesn’t license suspicious operators. That is why in order to obtain a permission it is necessary to comply with a list of requirements and pass several checks. So what exactly do operators need to do to obtain the license?
- Draw up a comprehensive business plan
- Place servers in the jurisdiction
- Prove that key persons have no criminal record
- Provide the commission with evidence of domain ownership
- Make sure that the gambling platform complies with local laws
- Create and implement a set of AML measures and prevention of involvement of minors in gambling
- Ensure compliance with the Responsible Gaming Policy
- Provide random number generator (RNG) certificates
It is worth noting that all key persons of the company are required to provide the licensor with complete and up-to-date information about themselves. In particular, the regulator requires copies of passports and utility bills, certificates of good conduct and letters of recommendation from the bank of each key person to be attached to the license application.
Anjouan’s license is issued for one year with the possibility of renewal.
How much does an Anjouan gambling license cost?
The cost of Anjouan’s gambling license is about 17,000€. This amount is affordable even for absolute beginners.
Alternatives to the Anjouan license
Despite all the advantages of the Anjouan license, some consider it insufficiently recognizable and respectable. Some operators prefer to explore all the options to get licensed , we recommend taking a closer look at licenses from Malta, Isle of Man, Kahnawake, Gibraltar, and Costa Rica. Please note that licensing fees might be reasonably higher, however reputation is always worth investment.
How LicensingAid can help you?
We can assist you in obtaining a license from Anjouan or any other jurisdiction. Our team will help you understand the regulator’s requirements, fulfill them unquestioningly, and receive the long-awaited permission. LicensingAid also provides AML compliance and bank account opening services, as well as design and trademark consultancy. Feel free to contact us and get any information or help that you need.
