Kahnawake
gambling license

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission licenses and regulates online gambling businesses from the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake, Quebec, Canada. Since 1999, the Kahnawake gambling license has become one of the most trusted licenses in the iGaming industry, hosting over 250 gambling websites. This license
continues to be an attractive option for both startups and established operators due to its stable regulatory environment, affordable costs, and broad market access.

Whether you’re just starting your online casino or looking to expand your reach into more international markets, the Kahnawake license provides a stable, cost-effective option. The benefits of this license far outweigh the challenges for most entrepreneurs. While it may not grant access to every market, it offers flexibility and global credibility that allows you to scale your business.

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WHY IS THE KAHNAWAKE
GAMBLING LICENSE IDEAL FOR STARTUPS?

Zero Corporate and Income Tax

Kahnawake provides businesses with a 0% tax rate on corporate income and gross gaming revenue (GGR), allowing operators to reinvest their profits into business growth—a crucial advantage for startups

Global Reach

Though the U.S. market is excluded, the Kahnawake gambling license provides access to most international markets, making it an ideal solution for businesses seeking global exposure, similar to Curacao or Anjouan licenses.

Cost-Efficient

Kahnawake is one of the most cost-effective licensing jurisdictions. With lower setup fees and ongoing costs compared to jurisdictions like Malta or the Isle of Man, it’s a great fit for new businesses looking to minimize expenses.

Flexible Company Structures

Kahnawake does not require local incorporation, giving operators the flexibility to structure their businesses in tax-efficient jurisdictions like Gibraltar, or the British Virgin Islands

Quick Processing Time

The full licensing process may take 4-5 months, but the application review period itself is usually completed within 8-10 weeks, allowing faster entry into the market compared to other regulatory bodies such as Malta or Isle of Man.

Kahnawake Gaming License Taxes

Kahnawake provides one of the most favorable tax environments in the iGaming world, with no corporate tax or gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax. This financial advantage allows operators to scale faster and reinvest profits back into their business.

Countries where the Kahnawake gambling license is allowed

The license provides great coverage. The only Country Kahnawake Gaming Commission doesn’t officially allow is the United States of America.

Non-regulated countries aren’t allowed or restricted. It allows access to all exclusive locations.

Compared to the Maltese license, which doesn’t allow you to operate in countries where gambling is restricted, Kahnawake’s license won’t stop you if you decide to expand.

Find out all the countries you should avoid with Kahnawake license.

List of all fifty-two countries and territories you should stay away from.

Download a List

Six types of gambling
licenses in Kahnawake

IJA license (“Inter-Jurisdictional Authorizations”)

This license is issued to a business that holds an IGL from another jurisdiction but wishes
to locate all or part of its equipment and/or personnel in the Mohawk Territory of
Kahnawake.

Since the operator and its operations have already been approved by the primary
jurisdiction, the Commission doesn’t have to re-complain with these requirements, saving the
operator time and money.
On average, it takes two weeks from receipt of the application and fees to issuance of the
IJA.
This license is NOT popular because it only allows you to house your servers at Mohawk Internet Technologies.

LDSA license (“Live Dealer Studio Authorizations”)

This license is for operators who want to offer live games with real dealers and physical
studios.

If you want to open your own live dealer studio in Canada, this license is for you. The
physical location must be on the premises of Kahnawake to apply for this license. You must
agree to the inspection of the premises to obtain the license according to all fire, safety
and environmental standards.

Liability insurance with coverage of at least two million dollars must be obtained.

IGL (“Interactive Gaming License”)

This license is used only for land-based casinos.

CSPA license (“Casino Software Provider Authorizations”)

It allows the holder to set up and operate gaming devices of the IGL holder and provide
casino software to a third-party provider for use on its website. It’s an alternative to B2B
licenses in other jurisdictions.

CPA license (“Client Provider Authorization”)

This is the main online gambling license issued to online operators. Once your business has
obtained this license, you’ll be called an “Authorized Client Provider”. It’s a good
alternative to the Curacao gambling license if you offer casino games, sports betting,
poker, bingo, horse racing or other games of chance.

After your application is approved, you can place your license number along with other
important information in the footer of your website.

KPP (“Key Person Permit”)

All operators with a “Client Provider Authorization” license must designate an individual to
perform key managerial functions. This may be your CFO, CEO, CTO, COO, office manager, or
any other person appropriate for this role.

It costs USD 5,000.00 to purchase the license, and this amount is part of the total CPA
package.

Kahnawake Gaming License
Turnkey Package

We offer a comprehensive Kahnawake Gaming License Turnkey Package designed to get your online casino up and running as smoothly as possible.

Our package includes everything from company incorporation, applying for the license, and setting up payment processing to ongoing compliance and regulatory support. Whether you’re new to the online gambling world or an experienced operator, our team will guide you through every step.

Company incorporation is often one of the first challenges entrepreneurs face. Navigating different jurisdictions, understanding their tax benefits, and choosing the right country for incorporation can be overwhelming. Our team handles this for you, helping you incorporate in jurisdictions like Cyprus or the British Virgin Islands, where tax rates are favorable and regulatory hurdles are minimal.

Additionally, we work closely with international banks that are familiar with the iGaming industry, ensuring that you don’t face unnecessary delays or account closures. Whether you plan to accept fiat or cryptocurrencies, our network of banks and payment processors will ensure smooth transactions for your players.

Setting up payment solutions is critical to the success of any online casino. Our turnkey solution includes connecting you with payment processors that specialize in handling iGaming transactions.

We help you implement secure, fast, and reliable payment options, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency. Offering a wide range of payment methods improves player trust and increases conversion rates, giving your business an edge over competitors.

Download all templates for a Kahnawake License now

Download a PDF with scans of all documents required to apply for a license

Kahnawake License Templates

Application Process for a Kahnawake Gambling License

At LicenseGentlemen, we ensure that your licensing process is tailored to your business needs. Here’s how we handle the application process:

Initial Consultation

We start with a detailed consultation to understand your business model, market goals, and operational needs. This helps us design the most appropriate structure for your company and choose the right approach to licensing.

Company Structuring

Based on your needs, we help set up your business in the most suitable jurisdiction. Many operators choose tax-efficient regions like Cyprus, Gibraltar, or the British Virgin Islands. We handle the incorporation and ensure your company is structured to optimize both tax and operational efficiency.

Document Preparation

We assist you in preparing all necessary documents, which include – Proof of Address, Source of Funds, Business Plan, Gaming Certification and other documents.

Submit the Application

Once the documents are in order, we submit the entire application to the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. This includes client provider authorization forms, business entity information, and key person permits.

Due Diligence Review

The Commission conducts a thorough due diligence review, verifying the business’s financial stability, compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, and the reputation of key personnel. We manage this process to ensure the application meets all regulatory standards.

Preliminary Approval

After the due diligence phase, you’ll receive preliminary approval, allowing you to begin operational setup such as server installation and payment gateway integration.

Final License Issuance

Once all conditions have been met and verified, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission will issue your license. You will receive an official license number that must be displayed on your website, enhancing player trust.

Ongoing Maintenance and Compliance

Even after receiving your license, we continue to support you with compliance requirements, ensuring that your business meets Kahnawake’s standards through regular audits and reporting. This ongoing support ensures your license remains in good standing.

Why Ongoing Maintenance of your Gaming License Important?

Maintaining compliance can be challenging for startups and small businesses due to the frequent need for audits, documentation updates, and other regulatory requirements. LicenseGentlemen provides ongoing support to help you stay on track, avoiding penalties or license suspension. We handle regular compliance reporting, ensure that your business passes audits smoothly, and assist with renewing licenses when necessary. With our help, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of the complex regulatory side.

Requirements for a KAHNAWAKE GAMING license

To obtain a Kahnawake gambling license, you must meet the following requirements:

Proof of Address: Each beneficial owner must provide proof of their residential address, typically in the form of a recent utility bill (no older than 3 months). This document verifies the residence of key individuals involved in the business.

Source of Funds: You’ll need to demonstrate the source of the funds being used for the business. This ensures that the financial backing of the operation is legitimate and not connected to any illegal activities. Bank references and financial statements are required to verify this.

Business plan: A comprehensive business plan is crucial for the application. It must outline your business model, financial projections, marketing strategies, and how you plan to operate the gaming platform. This helps the Commission evaluate the sustainability and credibility of your business.

Gaming certification: If you are providing gaming services or software, you will need to show certification from recognized testing agencies like iTech Labs or GLI (Gaming Laboratories International) to prove the fairness and integrity of your games. This includes certifications for RNG (Random Number Generator) technology to ensure the games are fair for players.

Certificate of good conduct: All beneficial owners and key personnel must submit a certificate of good conduct (sometimes referred to as a police clearance or a criminal record check) to prove they have no criminal history. This ensures that those running the business meet ethical and legal standards.

Functional website: Your website must be operational and meet regulatory requirements during the licensing process. The Commission will evaluate your platform for compliance, security, and the ability to handle player data responsibly. This also includes meeting design and usability standards to ensure a smooth player experience.

Key Person Permit (KPP): Every operator must appoint a key individual (often the CEO, CFO, or CTO) responsible for day-to-day operations. This person needs to apply for a Key Person Permit, which confirms they are fit to manage and comply with the Commission’s rules.

Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Regulations: You must demonstrate a commitment to preventing money laundering by setting up protocols to identify suspicious transactions. This includes having policies for customer due diligence and transaction monitoring.

Cost of a gambling license in Kahnawake

CPA license (“Client Provider Authorization”)

Featured Price

Due diligence investigation of the applicant company and its principals and a Key Person (non-refundable) US$15,000

First Annual licensing fee US$20,000

Key Person license application fee US$5,000

CSPA license (“Casino Software Provider Authorization”)

Featured Price

Casino Software Provider Authorization license US$20,000

Due diligence investigation of the applicant company and its principals and a Key Person (non-refundable) US$15,000

Key Person license application fee US$5,000

Inter-Jurisdictional Authorization license

Featured Price

Annual licensing fees US$10,000

One-time application fee US$2,000

Verify License Information:

Instantly confirm that the casino holds a valid and active license issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission.

Ensure Fair Play:

The badge signifies that the platform complies with strict regulations around game fairness, player protection, and responsible gambling..

Build Trust:

Displaying the Kahnawake Validator Badge enhances player confidence, knowing they are playing on a legally certified and well-regulated platform.

Kahnawake Licensed Validator: Ensuring Trust and Compliance

All online casinos licensed by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission are required to display the official Kahnawake Validator Badge. This badge serves as a visible confirmation to players and regulators alike that the casino operates under strict compliance with Kahnawake’s high regulatory standards.

The badge is a clickable icon, usually displayed in the footer of the website, allowing anyone to verify the legitimacy and status of the license in real time. By clicking the validator, players can:

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission: Trusted and Respected

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission has been a pioneer in the online gambling world, regulating operators and ensuring fair play since 1999. Their commitment to player protection and maintaining ethical standards has earned them a stellar reputation. This dedication also benefits license holders, as the credibility of the Kahnawake gambling license reassures players that they’re dealing with a trustworthy operator.

The Commission monitors complaints, ensures that operators pay out winnings, and enforces strict compliance with the license terms, making it one of the most respected authorities in the industry.

With the recent changes in Curacao’s licensing system, the demand for a strong, reputable license has increased, making the Kahnawake license more valuable than ever. Businesses seeking a reliable, long-term licensing solution are increasingly turning to Kahnawake due to its stability and consistent oversight.

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Kahnawake Gaming Regulations

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission enforces strict regulatory standards to ensure fairness and responsible gambling. These regulations include:

Fair Play

All games must be certified as fair, with RNG certification being mandatory for all licensed platforms.

Data Protection and Security:

Licensed operators must implement stringent measures to protect player data and secure financial transactions.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance

Operators are required to monitor for suspicious transactions and comply with global AML standards.

These regulations protect both operators and players, enhancing the credibility of businesses operating under the Kahnawake gambling license.

Despite these disadvantages, the Kahnawake gambling license still stands out as a highly reputable and reliable option for operators seeking a well-regulated environment. While the U.S. market is out of reach, and the regulatory scrutiny may seem stringent, these factors also contribute to the credibility and trust associated with the license. Operators who comply with the audits and regulatory requirements can build strong relationships with players, partners, and payment providers—ultimately benefiting their business in the long run.

Disadvantages of Getting a Kahnawake Gambling License

While the Kahnawake gambling license offers significant benefits, there are some challenges operators should be aware of:

No Access to the U.S. Market:

Similar to most international licenses (Curacao, Anjouan, Malta), the Kahnawake license does not allow you to operate in the U.S. market. This limits your potential reach in one of the biggest global markets.

Longer Licensing Time:

While the application itself may take 8-10 weeks, the full process—including gathering documents and compliance checks—can extend to 4-5 months. This is longer than other jurisdictions, such as Anjouan, which may offer faster timelines.

Regular Audits:

Unlike some jurisdictions, such as Anjouan or Tobique, Kahnawake requires frequent audits to ensure compliance. This can place an additional burden on startups, as more resources are needed to maintain the necessary documentation and meet audit standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the Kahnawake gambling license provides businesses with a robust, well-established, and cost-effective framework for operating an online gambling platform. The license’s flexibility, low cost, and 0% tax benefits make it particularly attractive for startups, while its strict regulatory oversight instills confidence in players and partners. Although the licensing process may take longer and regular audits can increase operational complexity, the long-term benefits of having a trusted, global license outweigh these challenges.

At LicenseGentlemen, we handle everything from initial consultations to ongoing compliance support, ensuring that your business remains compliant and successful. Whether you’re a startup entering the iGaming world or an established operator looking for a reputable license, the Kahnawake license offers you a solid foundation for growth.

Reach out to us today to explore how we can help you secure your Kahnawake license and unlock new growth opportunities in the online gaming world.

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Max Kerry

Maxim is the founder of LicenseGentlemen.com We help our small and large clients with online gambling licensing, platforms and payment system providers. After more than 300 successful licensing projects, we know exactly what problems every startup faces. We help our clients get the license quickly, choose the best platform and connect all payment methods so they can focus on their business. We also produce free content you can find on this blog or on YouTube.

What will you get working with LicenseGentlemen.com

Quick turnaround.

We focus only on licensing and structuring to guarantee you get your license as soon as possible. Without any delays. We achieve this by maintaining our relationships with all key regulators which is important during the application process because it allows us to resolve issues quickly without wasting time.

Your business needs to make money

In addition to licensing, you also need to make sure that the entire setup is done properly - you need to be able to connect payment system providers and generate cash flow. You stand to gain a lot more if your companies are located in the right jurisdictions that allow you to optimize taxes. Instead of opening just any business, we'll carefully review your business and show you options that can save you hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Ongoing Support

We understand you want immediate answers. You'll have a dedicated channel where you can ask any question and get an answer immediately, saving you days and allowing you to get licensed quickly.

Free Consultation

With over 300 successful projects, we have worked with more than 300 companies and not just delivered the license. We'll show you the best platforms you need for your needs. You'll also learn which payment solutions are right for your market and work like clockwork on your website.

FAQ

What is the Kahnawake Gambling License?

The Kahnawake gambling license is a regulatory permit issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, which is located in the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake, Canada. It allows online gambling companies, such as online casinos, poker rooms, and sportsbooks, to operate legally on a global scale.
Established in 1999, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission is one of the most respected authorities in the online gambling industry. Holding this license ensures that operators comply with strict regulations, promoting fair play, responsible gambling, and player protection.

How does a company obtain a Kahnawake Gambling License?

To obtain a Kahnawake gambling license, a company must go through a detailed application process with the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. This process includes submitting essential documents, such as business plans, certifications proving software fairness, and proof of financial stability. The application is reviewed thoroughly, including audits to ensure the software is secure and background checks on key personnel.
Here at LicenseGentlemen, we specialize in assisting with the entire process, including company structuring and bank account setup, making it easier for businesses to meet all regulatory requirements.

What are the benefits of holding a Kahnawake Gambling License?

Holding a Kahnawake gambling license provides several advantages. First, the license comes from a reputable and long-established regulatory body, lending credibility to your online casino or gambling platform. Second, Kahnawake offers 0% corporate tax and 0% gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax, making it a cost-efficient jurisdiction for gambling businesses. Third, operators are given access to many global markets (with the exception of the U.S.).
Lastly, the Kahnawake gambling license is known for its relatively affordable licensing fees, making it attractive for startups and well-established gambling operators alike.
At LicenseGentlemen, we also help businesses take full advantage of these benefits by setting up the right company structures to optimize tax efficiency.

Are there any restrictions or limitations with a Kahnawake Gambling License?

While the Kahnawake gambling license allows operators to offer their services in many international markets, there are some restrictions. Operators must comply with the regulations set by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, which includes ensuring fair play, implementing responsible gambling practices, and protecting player data.
Additionally, license holders are not allowed to operate in certain jurisdictions where online gambling is prohibited, such as the U.S. Furthermore, Kahnawake-licensed casinos must comply with international anti-money laundering (AML) laws.
At LicenseGentlemen, we help operators navigate these limitations by ensuring they remain compliant and avoid potential legal pitfalls.

How is player protection ensured by Kahnawake-licensed casinos?

Player protection is a top priority for the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. Kahnawake online casinos are required to implement strict security protocols to safeguard player information, including personal and financial data. These platforms must use certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure that all games are fair and unbiased. Regular audits are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance. Furthermore, Kahnawake-licensed casinos must provide tools for responsible gambling, such as self-exclusion options and resources for players who may need help. The Commission also investigates player complaints and ensures that any disputes are resolved quickly and fairly.

What makes the Kahnawake Gaming License desirable for online gaming businesses?

The Kahnawake Gaming License remains highly sought after due to its credibility and reputation in the online gaming industry. Businesses value its proven track record of providing a secure and regulated environment for online gaming operations. It also gives you broad access to the global market, not allowing just the United States.

What are the key features and requirements of the Kahnawake Gaming License?

The license is known for its stringent regulatory standards, ensuring fairness, security, and player protection. Key requirements include thorough background checks, financial transparency, and adherence to specific technical standards to guarantee a robust gaming platform.

How does the Kahnawake Gaming License contribute to the global expansion of online gaming businesses?

The license allows businesses to operate on a global scale by providing a recognized and respected regulatory framework. This facilitates partnerships with international stakeholders, attracts a diverse player base, and fosters trust in the online gaming community.

In the evolving landscape of online gaming, how does the Kahnawake Gaming Commission adapt its regulations to stay relevant?

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission consistently reviews and updates its regulations to align with industry trends and technological advancements. It focuses on emerging technologies, cybersecurity measures, and responsible gaming practices to ensure its licensees meet evolving standards.

What is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Kahnawake Gaming License?

The process involves thorough due diligence, submission of a comprehensive application, and engagement with the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. This includes demonstrating financial stability, implementing secure gaming platforms, and showcasing a commitment to responsible gaming. At LicenseGentlemen, we help you navigate the licensing process and ensure you comply with Kahnawake regulations for a smooth and successful license application.

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