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GCB Curacao License
by Curacao Gaming Control Board

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All Curacao licenses issued by the Curacao Master Providers in the last 25 years willexpire in 2024.

This means that the old online gambling licenses will no longer exist in Curacao. Websites such as Stake.com, Rollbit.com and others will have to decide whether to upgrade to the GCB Curacao license from the Curacao Gaming Control Board, or switch to alternatives such as the Anjouan or Kahnawake license.
The GCB Curacao license is the new name in the industry and will continue the history of the infamous Curacao license with new features, updated terms, structures and pricing.
This means that the new license represents a framework aligned with current European standards and offers all licensed operators, platform and software providers a range of benefits that every online casino needs.

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Benefits of the GCB Curacao License

The application process and the compliance process have completely changed. Even though the time it takes to get the new GCB Curacao license has become longer, this is due to the regulatory changes that will come into effect in 2024. Considering that the license is now more expensive, this may not be the best choice for companies looking for an easy way to get started. However, with the GCB Curacao license, you get a highly recognizable name in the industry that will help your online casino succeed and allow you to operate your business internationally (with a few restrictions).

Curacao Gaming License tax (GGR tax)
The GCB Curacao license has a 0% gaming tax. This means that you do not have to pay anything from the gross gaming revenue that your website generates.
Great coverage
GCB Curacao license allows you to operate in most countries in the world (with a few exceptions) and is suitable for online casinos, sports betting, lottery and table games (such as poker, blackjack, baccarat and others).
Recognized name
The Curacao name is well known and has become an industry standard over the last 25 years. All your partners are familiar with the Curacao license, which eliminates almost all operational risks
You can add multiple domains under one license
You don’t need to get a second license if you want to launch two (or more) gambling websites. You can simply add domains under the same license.

Application process

01
01
Fit and Proper Check.
With over 500 licenses behind us, we started processing 15 licenses for GCB Curacao within the first 48 hours of the deadline being announced. This gives us an advantage and the opportunity to assess the success of the application even before we start setting up a company. This is good for our clients because they don't have to waste time and money. The result? Last year alone, we successfully obtained 152 licenses out of 152 applications. That’s a success rate of 100.
02
02
Completion of the first package of documents
To speed up the application process, we put together the first package of documents required to start a business and do the necessary work to hire your Managing Director. By completing this step as quickly as possible, we can save time while preparing the second package of documents required for licensing.
03
03
Curacao company setup
At this point, we have all the necessary knowledge, documentation and other parameters required to set up a company. This usually happens within just one week of starting work. Your company in Curacao will be incorporated in accordance with all GCB requirements. Now we get down to business and appoint a director for your company. Now that all the variables are known, setting up a company usually takes seven business days, which is very important for companies that want to get to market as quickly as possible.
04
04
Licensing process
We work closely with the regulator to speed up the processing of your application and prevent it from getting bogged down in the bureaucratic queue. Thanks to our efficient approach, we can complete the approval process within a few weeks. However, the license compliance process is now more complex than under the previous regime and it’s critical to maintain control over compliance and promptly handle all regulatory inquiries to ensure a seamless path to the issuance of your license.
05
05
Setting Up a Payment Agent Company
Consider the benefits of setting up a payments company, as used by successful companies such as Stake.com and Roobet.com. This strategic tool helps to efficiently manage your business's financial transactions. The smart framework provides access to a variety of payment processing solutions and simplifies the setup of crucial bank accounts. In an initial consultation, we'll identify the most suitable payment agent company tailored to your specific requirements.
06
06
Opening your bank account
A bank account is possible after your license has been issued and the setup of a payment company has been properly completed. We speed up the process by obtaining all the necessary documents at the beginning of our work. To get your website up and running as quickly as possible, at this stage we already have everything you need to go live, including the documentation required to successfully open your bank account and connect payment system providers.

Requirements for the
the GCB Curacao license

No criminal record for all beneficiaries and the director of the company. Also, you mustn't have any active litigation on Curacao that was started during the past licensing regime.
You must provide proof of address, proof of funds and a source of wealth. Depending on your current situation, we will work with you on this package to satisfy the GCB Commission's appetite. When done right, this can significantly shorten the license application process and save you months of waiting.
A bank letter and a professional letter are necessary for a successful application.
We will provide you with a local managing director - a mandatory requirement of GCB Curacao. Your director will be a crucial part of your successful business and will complete operational tasks (such as KYC, document management) within 24 - 48 hours. This will allow you to act quickly and establish partnerships with key business partners as fast as possible.
At the conclusion of the licensing process, you will need a fully functional website. We collaborate across all platforms to ensure strict adherence to regulatory standards, guaranteeing that your website is fully operational by the end of the licensing journey.
For software providers developing games for operators, certification from major vendors such as iTechLabs, GLI and BMM Testlabs is essential. We streamline this process and ensure that it is seamless and simultaneous so that there are no unnecessary delays in acquiring your license.

Types of GCB Licenses

The Gaming Control Board (GCB) in Curaçao offers one license to regulate various verticals of the online gaming industry. This license ensure compliance with local laws and provide a structured framework for gaming operators.

ONLINE CASINOS

The license covers digital platforms offering casino games such as slots, poker, and table games. Operators must undergo rigorous software testing, implement player protection measures, and conduct financial audits to maintain transparency.

SPORTS BETTING

Applies to platforms facilitating bets on sports events. Operators offering online gaming in Curaçao under this license must adhere to specific regulations. Emphasis is placed on real-time data integrity, advanced data security measures, and anti-fraud systems to protect both the operator and players. Supervision of the online gaming sector on behalf of the GCB ensures these standards are met.

LOTTERY

Regulates online lottery services, including instant-win and draw-based games. Companies wishing to obtain a Curaçao gambling license for lottery operations must comply with specific guidelines. Operators must comply with strict randomness and transparency standards and undergo regular audits to ensure fair play. The national ordinance on offshore games mandates these standards.

TABLE GAMES

Covers virtual versions of traditional casino table games such as blackjack and roulette. Operators must apply for an online gaming license in Curaçao to offer these services legally. Operators need to maintain high levels of game integrity, with detailed record-keeping and regular compliance checks to ensure fairness. These requirements are attached to the license issued by the GCB.

B2B AND B2C LICENSE

The licenses currently issued by the GCB under the existing NOOGH legislation are purely operating licenses – they have no separate B2B or B2C categorization. Later, after the new law comes into force, B2B licenses will only be mandatory for B2B companies that establish themselves in Curaçao. For all other relevant international companies, the B2B license will be optional.

Verifying a Curaçao Gambling License

When purchasing a gambling license, it’s crucial to verify the authenticity of any Curaçao gambling license. This ensures that you are engaging with legitimate and regulated license providers, thereby avoiding potential scams and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Verifying licenses not only protects your investment but also enhances the credibility of your online gambling operation. Additionally, verifying the license confirms that the operator adheres to industry standards, offering a safer gambling environment.

  1. Check the License Number: All licensed operators display their license number on their website. Note this number down for verification. This applies to any Curaçao online platform you might be using.
  2. Use the Validator in the Footer: The primary method to check the validity of a Curaçao gambling license is by clicking on the validator in the footer of the operator’s site. This validator will provide the status of the license directly.
  3. Review the Agreement and Certificate: Any legitimate operator will receive an agreement and a certificate from the GCB. Ensure you review these documents to verify their authenticity. Be aware that documents can be faked, so this step is crucial for checking the integrity of the license.

Look for the GCB Seal: Legitimate operators often display the GCB seal on their website. Ensure this seal is genuine and, if possible, leads back to a verification page.

What does the Curaçao Gambling Control Board do?

The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) plays a vital role in regulating and overseeing the gambling industry within Curaçao. Its primary goal is to ensure that the gaming sector operates fairly, securely, and responsibly. Here’s a detailed look at the functions and responsibilities of the GCB:

Licensing

The GCB is responsible for issuing licenses to various gambling operators, including land-based casinos, lotteries, charity bingo, and other charitable gaming activities, along with online gaming operators conducting business in or from Curaçao. The board ensures that all operators meet stringent criteria before obtaining a license, promoting a secure and trustworthy gambling environment.

Supervision

To maintain the integrity of the gambling market, the GCB closely supervises all licensed operators. This supervision helps to prevent and combat criminal activities such as money laundering and the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT). The GCB’s regulatory oversight ensures that all operators adhere to established rules and regulations, thereby protecting the public and the industry’s integrity.

For a detailed understanding of the new AML, CFT, and CFP regulations, we offer you the opportunity to download the “New AML CFT CFP-Regulations doc. GS U215 24 Notes.“.

Enforcement

As mentioned multiple times throughout this article, the GCB enforces compliance with gambling legislation and regulations. This includes conducting regular audits and inspections of gambling operators. Non-compliance with the regulations can lead to severe penalties, including fines and the temporary or permanent revocation of licenses. This strict enforcement guarantees that all operators maintain high standards of conduct.

Responsible Gaming

Promoting responsible gaming practices is another critical responsibility of the GCB. They work together with Fundashon pa Maneho di Adikshon (FMA) to minimize the risks of gambling addiction within the Curaçao casino industry. By encouraging responsible gaming, the GCB helps protect vulnerable players and maintains a healthy gaming environment.

Regulatory Framework

The GCB maintains a robust regulatory framework to ensure honest, responsible, and competitive gambling practices. This framework is designed to keep the industry crime-free and fair, balancing the interests of both players and operators. It provides clear guidelines and standards for all aspects of gambling operations in Curaçao.

Overall, the Curaçao Gaming Control Board plays an essential role in ensuring the gambling industry operates legally, ethically, and securely. By issuing licenses, supervising operators, enforcing compliance, and promoting responsible gaming, the GCB maintains the stability and integrity of the Curaçao gambling sector.

Application Process

To apply for a Curaçao GCB license, you need to follow a structured process that involves several steps. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:

Fit and Proper Check

With over 500 licenses behind us, we started processing 15 licenses for GCB Curacao within the first 48 hours of the deadline being announced. This gives us an advantage and the opportunity to assess the success of the application even before we start setting up a company. 

This is good for our clients because they don’t have to waste time and money. The result? Last year alone, we successfully obtained 152 licenses out of 152 applications. That’s a success rate of 100.

Completion of the first package of documents

To speed up the application process, we put together the first package of documents required to start a business and do the necessary work to hire your Managing Director. By completing this step as quickly as possible, we can save time while preparing the second package of documents required for licensing.

Curacao company setup

At this point, we have all the necessary knowledge, documentation, and other parameters required to set up a company. This usually happens within just one week of starting work. Your company in Curaçao will be incorporated in accordance with all GCB requirements.

Now we get down to business and appoint a director for your company. This is a super important step that often gets overlooked. The Managing Director will sign all your agreements and provide KYC for your counterparties such as payment system providers. Choosing the wrong Managing Director can lead to delays, as it may take weeks to prepare documents, potentially resulting in tens of thousands of euros in losses for businesses that need to move quickly. We provide the best service to ensure that all documents you may need are ready immediately, or within 2-3 days for more complex requirements.

Now that all the variables are known, setting up a company usually takes seven business days, which is very important for companies that want to get to market as quickly as possible.

Licensing process

We work closely with the regulator to speed up the processing of your application and prevent it from getting bogged down in the bureaucratic queue. Thanks to our efficient approach, we can complete the approval process within a few weeks.

However, the license compliance process is now more complex than under the previous regime and it’s critical to maintain control over compliance and promptly handle all regulatory inquiries to ensure a seamless path to the issuance of your license.

Setting Up a Payment Agent Company

Consider the benefits of setting up a payments company, as used by successful companies such as Stake.com and Roobet.com. This strategic tool helps to efficiently manage your business’s financial transactions.

The smart framework provides access to a variety of payment processing solutions and simplifies the setup of crucial bank accounts. In an initial consultation, we’ll identify the most suitable payment agent company tailored to your specific requirements.

Opening your bank account

A bank account is possible after your license has been issued and the setup of a payment company has been properly completed. We speed up the process by obtaining all the necessary documents at the beginning of our work.

To get your website up and running as quickly as possible, at this stage we already have everything you need to go live, including the documentation required to successfully open your bank account and connect payment system providers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GCB Curacao license represents a significant advancement in the gaming industry in Curacao, aligning with European standards and enhancing the credibility of Curacao as a licensing jurisdiction. Operators looking to obtain a Curacao online gaming license must be prepared for the increased regulatory requirements, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

As we look to the future, the GCB Curacao license is set to become a hallmark of quality and reliability in the online gaming industry. The higher compliance standards and enhanced regulatory framework promise to attract more reputable operators and elevate the overall standard of licensed operators in Curacao.

At License Gentlemen, we offer tailored solutions to simplify the licensing process, empowering platforms to focus on delivering top-notch betting experiences. Whether you wish to acquire a Curacao online gaming license or need guidance on navigating the new regulatory landscape, we are here to support you. Contact us at License Gentlemen for detailed support designed with your platform’s success in mind, ensuring compliance while maximizing the appeal of your betting bonuses. Take action today to secure your place in the future of online gaming in Curacao.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does a Curaçao license cost?

Under the new GCB regulations, the total cost of obtaining and maintaining a Curacao gaming license is projected to increase significantly, potentially ranging from 100,000 to 120,000 EUR annually.

This escalation is due to several factors:

- Local Directorship Fees: The requirement for a local managing director adds a substantial annual expense, impacting those applying for a Curacao sub-license or a Curacao master license.

- Office Expenses: Operators are expected to maintain a physical office on the island of Curacao, contributing to higher overhead costs for those engaging in offshore games of hazard and online gambling in Curacao.

- Compliance Costs: Adhering to stringent local substance requirements necessitates additional investment in legal and compliance operations, especially for those holding a gambling license in Curacao.

- Fees are not final and may change due to uncertainties. We encourage you to consult with us directly at LicenseGentlemen for the most accurate pricing and tailored advice to ensure your platform's success.

Whether you're looking for your first license or transitioning an existing license under the new law, our expertise can guide you through the complexities of the Curacao online gambling market.

How long is the Curaçao license process?

The GCB in Curacao is currently taking between 4 and 12 months to complete the licensing process, instead of the previously estimated 2-12 months. This extended timeframe applies to all license holders and those who wish to operate games of chance or any form of online gaming under Curacao’s jurisdiction.

It starts with the fit and proper check and proceeds through document submission, company setup, and final approval.

To expedite the process, we will maintain closer communication with the GCB within this period to ensure the process can proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Curacao is currently enhancing its regulatory framework to align more closely with international standards. This means that any license that applies under the existing law or the new regulations must comply with the Curacao Internet gaming association’s guidelines.

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