The Republic of Belarus is a well-established and reputable jurisdiction for conducting gambling business in Eastern Europe, offering a stable and clearly regulated environment. Since 2019, when online gambling was legalized, the country has established a transparent legislative framework that attracts both local and international operators. Obtaining a Belarusian license is a complex, multi-step process that requires a deep understanding of regulatory, technical, and financial requirements. In this comprehensive guide, LicensingAid thoroughly examines all aspects of licensing in Belarus, offering operators a clear and detailed roadmap for successfully navigating this promising market.
Why Choose a Belarus Gambling License?
Selecting a jurisdiction for the procurement of a gambling license constitutes a strategic decision that shapes the future trajectory of the entire enterprise. Despite the apparent complexity of obtaining it, a Belarusian license offers a number of long-term advantages and makes the country attractive to operators focused on stability and predictability.
In contrast to many other regions, licenses here are issued for a period of 10 years, which reduces the administrative burden and serves as a strong signal of reliability. Legal status facilitates market access and fosters player confidence, which in turn impacts their loyalty and deposit-making propensity. Operators must meet stringent gambling license requirements in Belarus, including a mandatory security deposit, to ensure stability and prevent undesirable competition. Consequently, the entire industry benefits from enhanced reliability and transparency, contributing to its reputation.
Types of Gambling Licenses in Belarus
Belarusian legislation establishes a variety of licensing categories for different areas of gambling activity. Operators are required to obtain a license for each specific type of business they intend to engage in.
Casino license
This type of license is the primary permit required for conducting land-based gambling operations. It grants the right to organize and conduct gambling in establishments that are specifically equipped for this purpose—casinos. This permit allows for the provision of a comprehensive range of gaming activities, including card games (poker, blackjack), wheel games (roulette), dice games, and slot machines. Consequently, the license encompasses all critical operational areas for large gambling establishments.
Obtaining such documentation is subject to strict requirements. The casino must have a total area of at least 250 square meters, comply with technical standards, and be approved by local authorities.
Bookmaker license
This license authorizes the operation of betting games and the acceptance of wagers on various events, with a primary focus on sporting events. It is comprehensive, encompassing both the operation of physical betting outlets and the organization of online betting via the Internet. For operators, this presents an opportunity to develop an omnichannel business model, integrating offline outlets with digital platforms.
The primary requirement for obtaining a license is the use of certified software. It is essential to ensure the accurate calculation of odds, the acceptance of bets, the disbursement of winnings, and its seamless integration with the state monitoring system.
Slot Machine Hall License
This license is intended for operators who specialize exclusively in providing access to slot machines. In contrast to a casino license, it does not permit the organization of table games and is a more limited permit.
The requirements include a minimum hall area of at least 100 square meters, which is significantly smaller than a full-fledged casino. Each slot machine that is installed must be certified, registered with the Ministry of Taxes and Levies, and connected to the Special Computerized Cash Register System (SKKS). This system ensures full control by the Belarus gambling regulator.
Virtual Gambling Establishment (Online Casino) License
This is the most comprehensive and sought-after license, which grants the right to organize and conduct a wide range of gambling games via the Internet. It encompasses a wide range of gaming options, including slots, online card games, and betting games, among others. These games are made available to players remotely, ensuring a seamless and accessible gaming experience.
According to the law, only legal entities with at least two years of experience in the gambling business in Belarus can obtain such a license. This is one of the strictest requirements of the local jurisdiction, which ensures that only proven and reliable operators are admitted to the online market.
In addition, the technical conditions are strict: servers must be located in Belarus, and the system itself must be integrated with the Special Computerized Cash Register System (SKKS).
Live Games License
Belarusian legislation does not currently provide for a separate license specifically for live casinos. Games with live dealers are regulated under a virtual gambling establishment license.
However, operators planning to launch such a product should be aware that this format is subject to special control. The Ministry of Taxes and Levies requires mandatory certification of software, studio broadcasting equipment, and all game procedures. This is necessary to ensure the fairness, transparency, and randomness of the gaming process.
Therefore, live casinos are not an independent type of licensed activity. Instead, they are a technologically complex and strictly regulated element in the structure of online casinos.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Belarus Gambling License
The process of obtaining a gambling license in Belarus is strictly formalized and requires careful preparation at every stage.
- Registration of a legal entity
The initial step is to register the company as a legal entity in the Republic of Belarus. Foreign companies are not eligible to obtain a license directly.
- Ensuring physical presence
The company is required to have a physical office and legal address in Belarus. This requirement underscores the operator’s commitment to its business and its tangible presence in the country.
- Preparation and certification of documentation
A comprehensive corporate documentation package is being assembled, encompassing articles of association, registration certificates, and personal data of key personnel such as directors and founders. Additionally, technical certificates for gaming equipment and software are being obtained.
- Deposit of a financial guarantee
The operator is required to open a special account with a Belarusian bank and deposit a security deposit into it. Its primary objective is to guarantee that winnings are disbursed to players in the event of financial challenges. For online casinos, the deposit amount is a key factor.
- Ensuring technical compliance
The online platform must meet strict technical requirements, including the use of a certified random number generator (RNG) and the location of servers in Belarus. A key requirement is integration with the Special Computerized Cash Register System (SKKS), which provides state monitoring of all financial transactions in real time.
- Submitting an application and paying fees
The application, along with all supporting documentation, is submitted to the Ministry of Taxes and Levies. Concurrently, a state fee of 500 base units is remitted.
- Passing inspections
The regulator conducts a thorough review of all submitted documents, the business reputation of the founders, and the technical readiness of the platform.
- License acquisition
In the event that all checks are successful, the Ministry will proceed with the issuance of a license, which will be valid for a period of up to 10 years.
Requirements for a Belarus Casino License
The regulatory authority establishes rigorous standards for license applicants, with the objective of promoting transparency, integrity, and financial soundness within the gambling industry.
Company Registration and Reputation
The Belarusian regulator underscores the reliability and transparency of operators permitted to do business in the country. The primary requirement is the mandatory registration of a legal entity in the Republic of Belarus. Foreign companies are unable to obtain a license directly; therefore, they must establish a subsidiary in the country and operate within the framework of local legislation and the tax system.
A key part of the verification process is assessing the business reputation of the company’s founders, shareholders, and director. This is essentially equivalent to the international fit and proper person test. The regulator requires documentation confirming the absence of criminal convictions, especially for intentional and economic crimes, as well as certificates confirming the absence of debts to the budget.
One of the most stringent requirements of the Belarusian jurisdiction concerns management experience. The director or his/her deputy must have a proven track record in the gambling industry, specifically in the Belarusian market. They should have a minimum of three years of experience in land-based casinos and a minimum of two years in online casinos. This rule ensures that the operator will be managed by specialists who have a good understanding of the specifics of the local market and legislation.
Financial and Technical Requirements
Belarus gambling regulations are designed to ensure two key things: the financial stability of the operator and the fairness of the gaming process.
The foundation of financial stability is a security deposit. The operator is required to open a special account in a Belarusian bank and deposit a significant sum of money into it. For online casinos, this deposit amount is approximately $1 million. These funds are not intended for use in operating activities; rather, they serve as a reserve to pay out winnings to players and fulfill obligations to the state, even in the event of financial difficulties. This mechanism is designed to safeguard the interests of players and to affirm the operator’s genuine intentions.
The technical requirements are related to the transparency and security of games. Online casinos and slot machines must have a random number generator (RNG) certificate issued by an independent international laboratory. This ensures the outcomes of the games are truly random and cannot be altered. Furthermore, online casino operators are required to obtain a certificate of compliance for their information security system, which confirms the reliable protection of players’ personal and financial data. For land-based casinos, it is mandatory to have suitable premises that comply with legal requirements and are approved by local authorities.
Documents Needed for a Belarus Gambling License
To apply for Belarus casino license, you must prepare the following set of documents:
- A standard application form.
- Copies of documents proving the identity of all founders and the director.
- Notarized copies of the founding documents (articles of association).
- Certificate of state registration of the legal entity.
- Certificates of no criminal record for the founders and director.
- Document confirming payment of the state fee.
- Copy of the director’s employment record book to confirm the necessary work experience.
- For land-based establishments: permission for placement from the local executive authority and documents confirming the right to the premises.
Cost of a Belarus Gambling License
The Belarus gaming license cost of the license consists of two main parts.
- Government fee
The operator is responsible for a one-time fee of 500 base units when submitting an application. As of January 1, 2025, one base unit in Belarus is equivalent to 42 BYN, resulting in a total fee of 21,000 BYN (approximately €6,000 or $6,400 at the exchange rate for September 2025).
- Security deposit
Online casinos are required to deposit approximately $1 million in a special account with a Belarusian bank. These funds serve as a financial guarantee, ensuring that players are paid their winnings and that tax obligations are met even in the event of an operator’s financial difficulties.
Taxation for Gambling Operators in Belarus
The taxation system for gambling in Belarus is regulated by the Tax Code. It includes fixed payments for the land-based sector and income tax for online operators. It is imperative for professionals involved in iGaming project financial planning to understand these rules.
The primary tax is the gambling business tax. The calculation of this index is dependent on the specific format of the activity in question. Land-based establishments pay fixed amounts for each taxable object, regardless of profitability. The following rates have been set for 2025:
- 8,899 BYN for a gaming table (roulette, poker, etc.);
- 299 BYN for a slot machine*;
- 1,870 BYN for a bookmaker’s company.
*For slot machines that are more than 10 years old, the rate increases to BYN 598. This measure is intended to encourage operators to upgrade their equipment.
Online casinos are obligated to pay tax on gaming revenue (GGR), defined as the difference between bets and winnings paid out. As of January 1, 2025, the rate for online operators has been set at 10%. For land-based casinos and bookmakers, the rate remains at 4%.
Please note that a tax will be deducted from your winnings. The operator is required to withhold and transfer 4% of each player’s winnings to the budget. To ensure the integrity of the data, it is essential to maintain meticulous records of all financial transactions.
In addition, the gambling company pays standard taxes, including income tax on total operations.
Validity Period of a Belarus Gambling License
A license to operate in the gambling business in Belarus is issued for a period of 10 years. This is one of the key advantages of the jurisdiction, as it provides operators with long-term stability and eliminates the need to frequently go through the complex and costly procedure of re-registering documents. As a result, operators are able to focus on developing their business.
Why Choose LicensingAid for Your Belarus License?
LicensingAid is a team of experts specializing in consulting and comprehensive support for iGaming projects in regulated markets. The process of obtaining a license in Belarus involves many legal, financial, and technical nuances. Our comprehensive service offering includes support at every stage of the business lifecycle, from company registration and documentation preparation to technical audits and interaction with the regulator. Our expertise enables us to mitigate the risks of rejection, expedite the licensing process, and ensure your project’s compliance with all Belarusian legislation.
FAQ
How Long Does It Take to Get a Belarus Gambling License?
The time required to review an application may vary. The official deadline is 15 business days, but it may be extended if additional checks or expert reviews are necessary. On average, taking into account the preparation stage, the entire process from company registration to obtaining a license can take from 2 to 6 months, provided that all documents are prepared correctly.
How Much Does a Belarus Gambling License Cost?
The total cost of obtaining a license consists of several parts: a one-time state fee (21,000 BYN for 2025), a substantial security deposit (approximately $1 million for online casinos), as well as expenses for legal support, software certification, and compliance with technical requirements. The final amount will depend on the scale and specifics of your project.
What Are the Tax Requirements for Gambling Operators in Belarus?
The tax system includes a fixed tax on gaming equipment (tables, slot machines) and cash registers, a 4% tax on gaming revenue, and an obligation to withhold 4% income tax from players’ winnings. The total tax obligation is determined by the amount of equipment, revenue, and profitability of the operator.
Can I Operate an Online Casino and Sportsbook with One License?
According to the Belarusian legislation, a separate license is required for each type of gambling activity. One company may hold several licenses (e.g., for online casinos and bookmaking), but to do so, it must submit separate applications and meet all the requirements established for each of these areas.
