Curaçao’s New Online Gaming License Regime Is Now in Effect

Article by : Erik Gibbs Sep 4, 2023

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Curaçao keeps moving forward with solid legal efforts for the nation to bolster the oversight and legitimacy of its online gaming and gambling sector. The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) has taken a meaningful step forward in regulating the country’s online gambling landscape.

The CCB has triggered the legal application process for operators seeking new licenses on the island. This highly anticipated move carries substantial benefits for foreign regulators.

The Curaçao-based offshore operators had previously thrived by providing illicit gambling services on a global scale, and thus, for operators, changes would bring regulatory and financial protection to the market.

These legislative updates are poised to lay the foundation for a more equitable and secure industry, fostering long-term value. The GCB is optimistic about a seamless transition to a more regulated market.

Beginning September 1, Curaçao initiated the license application process. This has allowed the new and interested operators to access the GCB’s newly introduced online portal. This portal serves as a guiding resource for applicants, offering comprehensive information about the licensing procedure.

Operators can readily access downloads and guidance notes to ensure compliance and a streamlined application process. The submission of completed license applications is scheduled to commence in November 2023.

By starting in a couple of months, operators will now have time to prepare and submit their documentation for evaluation. Existing license holders will be automatically transitioned to the new system.

In the meantime, companies holding current sub-licenses must apply for licenses alongside new operators. However, these operators can continue their business under this revised framework.

This pivotal development signifies Curaçao’s commitment to establishing a more transparent, accountable, and secure online gambling industry. With a new system, operators anticipate more benefits that will strengthen regulators’ oversight of the market and protect consumers.

Businesses that have submitted their applications will be granted provisional licenses starting in November. These revisions to the licensing process run in parallel with existing legislation, affording greater adaptability in addressing emerging challenges.

The tightening of the license application procedures is expected to attract a broader spectrum of operators interested in conducting business within Curaçao. This will shift the local gaming market toward a more transparent and accountable gambling sector.

These modifications to the licensing landscape coincide with other pivotal updates that mark Curaçao’s commitment to comprehensive gambling legislation reform. The introduction of the National Ordinance for Games of Chance is a cornerstone in modernizing and rationalizing the regulatory structure governing online gambling.

This initiative aligns Curaçao’s regulatory framework with international best practices and standards. These measures are also designed to ensure the integrity and equity of Curaçao’s online gaming sector.