Gambling License in Brazil

With the enactment of new legislation in 2023, Brazil has officially opened its gambling market, which is set to be fully operational by January 1, 2025. This marks the end of the ban imposed in 1946 and presents significant opportunities for operators seeking entry into Latin America’s largest market.

Under the new regulatory framework, Brazil offers licenses for operators providing online sports betting and casino services. This ensures a transparent and structured market where participants can operate legally.

The responsibility for overseeing and developing the gambling industry has been assigned to Brazil’s Ministry of Finance (Ministério da Fazenda). The ministry is responsible for drafting regulations, managing the licensing process, and ensuring compliance among all market participants.

Transition Period:

• As of October 1, 2024, preparations for the market launch have commenced.
• 96 operators have been granted legal rights to operate.
• Illegal websites: Starting October 11, 2024, websites that fail to meet regulatory requirements will be blocked by the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel).

Benefits of Obtaining a Brazil Gambling License

• Access to the largest market in Latin America: With a population exceeding 200 million, of which 67% are active internet users, Brazil offers a vast potential customer base.
• High profitability: The gambling market in Brazil is projected to become one of the most lucrative globally, driven by strong user engagement and increasing industry interest.
• Market growth potential: The introduction of a regulated gambling market is expected to significantly boost Brazil’s economy, offering operators the opportunity to capitalize on the growing interest in gaming.

Key Licensing Features:

• Mandatory local presence: Companies must be registered in Brazil. Foreign operators must establish a subsidiary with at least 20% Brazilian ownership.
• Financial guarantees: A minimum financial reserve of 5 million BRL (approximately €823,770) is required, along with a two-year financial forecast.
• Social responsibility: Operators must implement stringent anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) measures, ensure client data protection (KYC compliance), and provide 24/7 customer support in Portuguese.
• Technical certification: Platforms must be certified by independent laboratories to guarantee security and reliability.

Required Documents for a Brazil Gaming License

• Corporate registration: Articles of incorporation and proof that 20% of shares are owned by a Brazilian partner.
• Financial documentation: Proof of the 5 million BRL financial reserve, a financial discipline certificate from the Central Bank, and tax documents issued by the Special Secretariat of Federal Revenue.
• Employee qualifications: Appointment of a financial director and a customer support manager, along with certificates confirming no criminal record or legal violations.
• Technical certificates: Documents proving platform compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

Timeframe for Obtaining a Brazil iGaming License

The licensing process takes between 8 to 12 months, including document review, compliance verification, and platform certification.

Conclusion

Acquiring a Brazil online gambling license presents immense opportunities for operators, granting access to one of the world’s most promising markets. Despite strict requirements and significant costs, the advantages — such as customer trust, high profitability, and legal access to Brazil’s robust economy — make it a worthwhile investment for companies aiming for long-term success.

For businesses interested in securing a gambling license, it is advisable to entrust this crucial process to professionals. SBSB experts have been providing comprehensive legal support for fintech and gambling projects since 2013. Our experienced lawyers will help you select the optimal license type tailored to your business model and guide you through all licensing stages, ensuring full compliance with jurisdictional requirements while managing all legal aspects.

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