Multi-jurisdictional Licensing

Alderney is considered an industry leader in the regulation of gambling businesses. The Alderney regulator, the Alderney Gambling Control Commission (the “AGCC”) offers two categories of licence; one for B2C operators (those responsible for registering, verifying and managing player data and funds) and B2B operators (those who support with effecting gambling transactions and offering of platforms).

As a result of its internationally recognised reputation, Alderney is home to several recognised operators and platform providers. With careful structuring and dual licensing, Alderney can also be used as an effective operational base for targeting the UK market.

There are no gaming duties or VAT and zero rate of corporation tax for Alderney entities.

Regulated by the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC), the Isle of Man is considered a tier one jurisdiction due to its robust regulatory approach and straightforward and mature licensing regime. The GSC is also seen as a very experienced, approachable and pro-active regulator who understands unregulated markets extremely well. 

Whilst well-considered for many business types, the island is particularly well utilised by Asia-facing operators. The standard rate of corporate tax there is 0% and gaming duty is charged as a percentage of the gross gaming yield between 0.1% to 1.5%.

The Isle of Man has one operator's licence to fit all types of activity, including standard B2C, network services and software suppliers.

Regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Malta is a diverse and innovative hub for the gaming industry. It is the jurisdiction of choice for many operators wishing to establish European hub.

Since 2018, Malta has provided a simplified licensing process that offers two licence types: a Gaming Service Licence for B2C and a Critical Gaming Supply Licence for B2B. The regulatory framework covers games of chance, games of chance and skill and skill games.

The MGA requires the applicant company to meet the prescribed minimum issued paid up share capital requirements. A maximum requirement of €240,000, these funds can be used for operational purposes. The standard rate of corporate tax in Malta is 35% and with careful structuring can be reduced to an effective rate of 5% for non-resident beneficial owners.

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is often seen as an industry leader in terms of player protection regulations and their legislation is constantly evolving to reflect the industry’s needs not just in the United Kingdom, but worldwide. As such, the UKGC operate a strict licensing regime and their processes are continually reviewed to ensure the best outcome for both players and operators. 

To provide remote gambling facilities within the UK an operator needs a UK licence, which come in B2B and B2C forms. Operators who manufacture, supply, adapt or install gambling software which is used by UK licensed operators will need to hold a ‘gambling software’ licence.

Note that key personnel responsible for certain identified activities will be required to hold a personal management licence with the UKGC, in addition to any corporate licence.

Gibraltar is a well-regulated and supportive jurisdiction, regulated by the Gibraltar Gambling Commission. Gibraltar traditionally only considered licensing applications from 'blue chip' companies with a proven track record in gambling in other jurisdictions, though they now also consider the licensing of appropriately funded start-ups and expanding operations  relocating from other jurisdictions. 

Gibraltar is a hub for UK-facing operators, but it also a good jurisdiction for businesses wishing to enter emerging non-European markets.

Our team has project-managed licence applications all over the world, so our expertise is not limited to just the key licensing jurisdictions listed above. Other jurisdictions we have worked with include but aren't limited to:

• Argentina
• Bahamas
• Curacao
• Ireland

If the jurisdiction that interests you isn't listed above, please get in touch with us to see if we are able to help.