Gambling Licence in Romania: The Ultimate Guide to Expanding Your iGaming Business

In recent years, Romania has emerged as a preferred jurisdiction for iGaming operators, thanks to its competitive advantages and growing online gambling market. As a lawyer with extensive experience in FinTech and gambling regulations, I firmly believe that obtaining a Romanian B2B gambling license could be a game-changer for your business. In my practice, I have guided clients through the process, enabling them to expand their services to Romania’s regulated gambling market and beyond. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore why Romania is becoming a hot spot for gambling businesses, the key requirements for obtaining a gambling license, and how you can set up a B2B gambling operation in Romania.

Why Choose Romania for Your Gambling License?

Romania is one of the leading markets for online gambling in Eastern Europe, with a growing population of nearly 20 million people and an internet penetration rate of 88%. The gross gaming revenue in the country is estimated to be around 900 million EUR annually. This substantial market makes Romania an attractive destination for international operators looking to establish a strong foothold in the region.

I believe that Romania’s gaming jurisdiction offers numerous benefits, such as:

• Fully Regulated Market: Romania offers a well-regulated gambling environment, which enhances the credibility of operators holding a Romanian gambling license.
• B2B License: The B2B license allows software providers, payment processors, and other gaming suppliers to offer their services to licensed B2C operators in Romania, expanding market opportunities significantly.
• Cross-Border Opportunities: With a Romanian B2B license, businesses can position themselves for future growth and potentially obtain recognition in other jurisdictions, such as Malta, which is essential for scaling operations in Europe.
• Trusted by Operators: Many major players in the gambling industry, including Evolution Gaming and Slotegrator, are already operating under the Romanian gambling license, reinforcing its trustworthiness.

In my experience, acquiring a Romanian gambling license is one of the best strategic moves for companies looking to expand their reach in Europe and attract new business partners.

Key Requirements for Obtaining a Gambling License in Romania

The process of obtaining a Romanian gambling license is straightforward, especially for companies already established within the EU. The Romanian National Gambling Office (ONJN) regulates all gambling activities, and the process is largely dependent on the company’s structure and ownership.

Here are the essential steps and requirements for obtaining a Romanian B2B gambling license:

1. Company Registration:

• EU-based Companies: If your company is based in the EU, you do not need to establish a Romanian entity but will need to register for a Romanian tax number (CIF).
• Non-EU Companies: Non-EU companies must establish a Romanian branch or subsidiary to obtain the license.

2. Shareholder and Director Requirements:

• No criminal records: Shareholders and directors must have clean criminal records and good reputations.
• Experience in Gambling Industry: Key stakeholders must have relevant industry experience.

3. Compliance with AML/KYC:

• The company must have robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies in place. This is critical in maintaining compliance with Romanian gambling laws.

4. Technical and IT Requirements:

• The company must demonstrate that it can manage gaming platforms, payment systems, and provide secure data hosting services. This involves having robust IT infrastructure and maintaining high-level security protocols.

5. Required Documentation:

• Company documents, including articles of association, proof of tax compliance, and proof of financial standing.
• Criminal background checks for all directors and shareholders.
• Proof of software ownership or agreements with software suppliers.

In my legal practice, I emphasize that preparation is key — gathering all required documentation and ensuring your AML/KYC policies are up to the required standard will streamline the process significantly.

The Benefits of a Romanian Gambling License

1. Legal Access to the Romanian Market:

A Romanian B2B gambling license grants your business legal access to the lucrative Romanian gambling market, providing a steady stream of clients and business opportunities. It opens doors to a range of B2C operators looking for licensed software suppliers and payment service providers.

2. Improved Credibility and Reputation:

Holding a Romanian gambling license significantly boosts your company’s credibility and reputation in the gambling industry. This is particularly important when establishing partnerships with other gaming operators and service providers.

3. Attractive Tax Regime:

Romania offers an attractive tax environment for gambling operators, with a corporate tax rate of 16% and a VAT rate of 19%. For companies with annual turnovers below €500,000, Romania also offers a reduced micro-enterprise tax rate of just 1% on revenue.

4. Payment Solutions:

With a Romanian license, you gain access to a variety of payment providers and can offer seamless payment solutions to your clients, ensuring smooth transactions across different platforms.

5. Stable Legal Framework:

Romania’s regulated gambling environment provides stability and ensures that all operators comply with local laws and regulations. This creates a safer business environment and provides clarity on rules, making the licensing process predictable.

In my opinion, the Romanian gambling license is a key asset for any business looking to establish a long-term presence in the European iGaming market.

Steps to Obtain a Gambling License in Romania

Step 1: Company Setup

First, you need to establish your company within the EU or Romania. If your company is not based in Romania, you must register it and obtain a Romanian tax number.

Step 2: Documentation Preparation

Prepare and submit the necessary documents, including your AML/KYC policies, company registration, and software verification.

Step 3: Application Submission

Submit the license application to the ONJN, along with the required documentation and a non-refundable fee.

Step 4: Approval and Licensing

Once approved, you will receive your Romanian B2B gambling license, enabling you to offer your services to other licensed operators in the country.

Conclusion: Start Your Journey with a Romanian Gambling License Today

As an experienced lawyer in the iGaming industry, I consider Romania an excellent jurisdiction for businesses aiming to expand in Eastern Europe and the European Union. With a favorable tax environment, stable regulations, and access to a growing market, it offers many advantages for companies in the gambling sector.

I always advise my clients to be thorough in preparing their documentation and compliance strategies before submitting their applications. The process may seem daunting, but with proper guidance and preparation, it is both achievable and highly beneficial.

In conclusion, obtaining a Romanian B2B gambling license is a strategic decision for any company looking to expand its presence in Europe. With a well-regulated market, low tax rates, and the potential for cross-border expansion, Romania offers an excellent opportunity for growth.

By partnering with SBSB Fintech Lawyers, you gain access to expert legal advice and full support throughout the licensing process. We will ensure that all your documentation is in order, your compliance policies are up to the mark, and that you are ready to operate legally and successfully in Romania.

If you’re ready to expand your gambling business, don’t hesitate to contact us today to get started with your Romanian gambling license.