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Starting an online casino or a sports betting platform is a lucrative venture, but the first hurdle is always the same: legalization. The most common question for entrepreneurs is, “How much does a gambling license cost?”
The answer isn’t a common thing for all. Costs can range from €15,000 to over €1,000,000 depending on the jurisdiction, the level of prestige, and the complexity of the application.
In this guide, we break down the costs, timelines, and hidden fees of the world’s most popular gaming jurisdictions.
To understand the price, you must first understand the “Tier” system. Jurisdictions are ranked by their reputation, regulatory strictness, and cost.
Based on current market data, here is a comparison of the most sought-after offshore and onshore licenses:
| Jurisdiction | License Fee (Regulator) | Legal & Service Fees | Total Est. Entry Cost | Average Timeline | Taxation |
| Anjouan | €17,828 | €6,000 – €9,500 | ~$25,000 | 3 months | 0% |
| Costa Rica | €15,000 | €5,500 – €7,500 | ~$21,000 | 2-4 months | 1% on GGR |
| Nevis | €28,000 | €8,000 – €12,000 | ~$38,000 | 4-5 months | 0% |
| Tobique | $43,000 | $9,000 – $15,500 | ~$55,000 | 1-3 months | 0% |
| Kahnawake | $40,000 | $11,000 – $16,500 | ~$53,000 | 3-5 months | 0% |
| Curacao | ~$50,000 | $15,000 – $30,000 | ~$70,000 | 4-5 months | 0% |
| Malta (MGA) | up to €240,000 | €30,000 – €60,000 | ~$300,000+ | 1-3 years | 5% on GGR |
The “Regulator Fee” is just the tip of the iceberg. To calculate your total iGaming license cost, you must account for:
Most jurisdictions require you to incorporate a local company.
Before granting a license, regulators want to see that you are financially stable.
If you want to reduce the initial setup cost, consider these strategies:
1. Sublicensing (The Curacao Model): Instead of a master license, many operators use a sublicense, which significantly lowers the entry barrier.
2. White Label Solutions: Partner with a platform provider that already holds a license. You “rent” their legal structure, allowing you to launch in weeks rather than months.
3. Choose Tier 3 First: Start with Anjouan or Nevis to build your brand and revenue. Once your project is stable, you can “upgrade” to a Tier 1 license like the UK.
4. Benefit from Lower Renewal Rates: Jurisdictions like Tobique offer a massive discount on maintenance, with renewal fees at 25,000 compared to the 45,000 initial cost. Always plan your renewal ahead of time to avoid costly penalties and maintain your license’s good standing.
Cost is often tied to time. The faster you want to go, the more you might pay in professional “express” fees.
Ready to get started? Consulting with legal experts can save you thousands in avoiding mistakes and rejected applications. Ensure your chosen jurisdiction aligns with your target markets and long-term business goals. Write to us by email: yuliya_barabash@sb-sb.com
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Global Law Experts is dedicated to providing exceptional legal services to clients around the world. With a vast network of highly skilled and experienced lawyers, we are committed to delivering innovative and tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of our clients in various jurisdictions.
Global Law Experts is dedicated to providing exceptional legal services to clients around the world. With a vast network of highly skilled and experienced lawyers, we are committed to delivering innovative and tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of our clients in various jurisdictions.
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