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Anjouan vs Curaçao iGaming licenses: Which is the better choice?
By Ron Mendelson31 March 2025
We all know that the iGaming sector is highly competitive, so obtaining a valid gaming license is crucial for ensuring legal operations, gaining player trust, and accessing reliable banking services. Among the many different jurisdictions offering iGaming licenses, Anjouan and Curaçao are popular choices for operators looking for affordability, speed, and relatively simple compliance requirements.While both licenses provide an entry point into the global online gaming and gambling market, they differ significantly in costs, regulations, reputation, and long-term viability. This article provides a detailed comparison of the Anjouan iGaming and the Curaçao iGaming licenses, helping you decide which is the best fit for your business.
Overview of Anjouan and Curaçao iGaming Licenses
Fast Offshore will provide a short overview of each license in this section. However, it is best to contact us for more specific information on details and costs. Each application will depend on your circumstances and what you require from your license.
Anjouan is the lowest application and renewal costs in the sector.
- Location: Anjouan, part of the Union of the Comoros (East Africa).
- History: Initially introduced in the early 2000s, but recently gained popularity as an alternative to Curaçao and following government streamlining.
- Regulatory Framework: Overseen by the Anjouan Gaming Board, offering a streamlined licensing process.
- Reputation: Growing recognition, though still developing in global acceptance.
- Cost: The lowest application and renewal costs in the sector.
Curaçao iGaming License
- Location: Curaçao, a Caribbean island under the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
- History: One of the oldest iGaming regulators, offering licenses since the 1990s.
- Regulatory Framework: Previously, a lax regulatory environment, but undergoing major reforms to tighten compliance.
- Reputation: Well-known globally, but suffered from historical concerns over weak oversight, although this is changing following a recent reform of the iGaming regulations.
- Cost: Used to be one of the lowest-cost licenses, but now a more middle-tier iGaming license in terms of costs
Licensing Requirements and Application Process
So, how to get a license in Anjouan or Curaçao? Here is a quick overview.
Application Process in Anjouan
- Simple and fast approval process taking just a few days to a few weeks as a maximum, as long as all documents are in order.
- Requires business incorporation in Anjouan.
- No strict compliance demands compared to major jurisdictions.
Application Process in Curaçao
- Previously operated on a sublicense system under four master license holders.
- New 2024 regulations require direct licensing, increasing scrutiny and costs.
- Background checks, financial audits, and compliance measures now more stringent.
- Licensing process takes several months due to increased due diligence.
Compliance, Regulations, and Player Protection
Regulatory Oversight in Anjouan
- Less stringent AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements.
- Less mandatory responsible gaming measures than some other jurisdictions while still providing reliability for players.
- More flexibility but growing in popularity and recognition internationally.
Regulatory Oversight in Curaçao
- 2024 reforms introduced stricter compliance similar to EU jurisdictions.
- Mandatory responsible gaming features.
- Enhanced AML/KYC regulations to combat fraud.
- Stronger oversight from the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB).
Market Acceptance and Credibility
Both licenses are official, government-issued licenses, but they have different weights internationally. Curaçao is globally recognised but suffered credibility issues before its 2024 reforms, whereas Anjouan is a rising jurisdiction, but its recognition is still developing.
Payment processors and banks generally prefer Curaçao over Anjouan although both licenses are valid. As a general rule, the Curaçao license offers better banking options due to hits istorical presence in the industry. As Anjouan’s reputation grows, it will become more accepted by reliable banking partners. However, both licenses allow cryptocurrency gaming, but Anjouan is more flexible.
Operational Flexibility and Restrictions
When it comes to operational flexibility and restrictions, Anjouan has fewer market restrictions, meaning operators are free to target and work with multiple regions. Since reforms in Curaçao, there are limits in place on certain markets. A number of entrepreneurs hold multiple licenses which allow them to operate in various markets, furthering their reach and potential for success.
Which License is Best for Your Business?
For Startups:
- Anjouan is a cost-effective, low-barrier option for quick entry. It is also a great starter license which can be combined with others at a later date.
- Curaçao is pricier but offers a longer-established regulatory reputation.
For Established Brands:
- Curaçao is preferable due to its stronger credibility and banking access.
- Anjouan offers flexibility for a business to grow in multiple markets and sectors, while embracing technology and innovation without over-regulation.
For Crypto-Focused Operators:
- Both licenses accept cryptocurrency.
For Targeting Specific Regions:
- Curaçao is accepted in more regulated markets.
- Anjouan provides access to emerging markets such as Latin America, Africa, Asia, and even Europe, and can be combined with other licenses when necessary.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
Choosing between an Anjouan and Curaçao iGaming license depends on your business goals, budget, and compliance preferences. With Curaçao's licensing landscape changing significantly in 2024, some operators are exploring alternatives like Anjouan. However, as regulatory expectations increase globally, both jurisdictions will likely continue evolving to remain competitive in the iGaming industry. To find out which is the best option for you, why not schedule a chat with Fast Offshore? Our team will be happy to talk you through all the options available to you, ensuring you make the best choice for your business needs.
Anjouan vs Curaçao iGaming licenses: Which is the better choice? is republished from iGamingNews.com.
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