Understanding iGaming Licenses in 2024: What You Need to Know

What is an iGaming License?

An iGaming license is a legal permit necessary to operate in the online gambling industry. An online gaming business without a license is subject to potential fines, criminal charges, asset seizure, and even business closure.

The requirements for obtaining gaming licenses vary per jurisdiction and regulatory authority. In the United States, the jurisdiction varies per state. For example, the New York State Gaming Commission regulates online gambling licenses in their state.

Moreover, the process of applying for licenses depends on the type of iGaming business. Here are common types of iGaming licenses you can apply for:

• Online casino license: Allows operators to start an online casino and offer games like slots, blackjack, and roulette.
• Sports betting license: Allows operators to launch online sports betting platforms in events like basketball, football, and horse racing.
• Poker license: Allows operators to start an online poker room or tournament.
• Lottery license: Allows operators to offer online lotteries, including bingos and scratch cards.

Of course, there’s more to know about the iGaming world for aspiring operators. Securing an online gambling license is the most essential first step.

Why do you need to get an iGaming license?

First of all, you can’t open an online gambling business without a license. Even if you do, you’ll always be looking over your shoulders. Legal actions, massive fines, and a complete shutdown will follow your tracks.

Along with the potential consequences, a gambling license presents special advantages. Here are the benefits you can only have when you get a gaming license:

• Get access to a wider market. Expand into new markets and players by having the right gambling license.
• Protect your players. Player protection and fair play are essential in ensuring sustainable growth in the gambling industry.
• Build a loyal customer base. A legal, credible, and trustworthy brand is necessary to gain loyal players.

Obtaining a gaming license helps you reach a wide range of audiences. This stabilizes your growth and gives you a competitive advantage.

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How iGaming Licenses Work

Securing iGaming licenses is regulated by governing bodies in each jurisdiction. Most countries have one primary regulatory body. For instance, here are several well-known regulatory authorities in the online gaming industry:

• UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
• Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
• Curacao eGaming
• Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner

However, some countries like the United States integrate a state-level jurisdiction system. These state regulatory authorities are responsible for providing online gaming licenses. Here are several examples:

• Colorado Limited Gaming Control Commission
• New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE)
• Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB)
• Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB)
• Indiana Gaming Commission

These gambling regulators enforce strict policies even after you get a gaming license.  As a licensed operator, you have ongoing responsibilities to the players and the regulators. Maintain your license by complying with these responsibilities:

• Be transparent in your regulatory reports. Ensure honesty when providing reports to the regulators, especially financial reports and player incidents.
• Update your security technology. Invest in security measures, especially in verifying player identity and protecting user data.
• Schedule regular audits of your regulatory compliance. Undergo quarterly or yearly audits to comply with evolving regulations in your jurisdiction.

Acquiring an online gambling license is just the first step in sustaining your business. Maintain a good reputation by complying with your regulators and adhering to fair gaming practices.

Steps to Obtain an Online Gambling License

Follow these easy, straightforward steps on how to get a gambling license in iGaming.

1. Research and Preparation

Each online gambling license comes with specific operational permits. Your gambling license dictates the types of games you can offer and the players you can offer them to. That’s why it’s imperative to identify the gambling licenses you need.

For example, aspiring gambling businesses in the UK should know the different licenses that the UKGC requires. For international operators, it’s recommended to review the FAQ about gaming license and operations in Malta.

Determine your target market and regulatory body, and then identify every licensing requirement. Each online gambling license might differ in costs and specific documents. But these are common requirements that they share:

• Financial requirements: Online casinos and gambling operators should sustain their expenses and corporate tax payments. Applying for an online gambling license also comes with application costs.
• Technical standards: Online gaming companies should meet software and hardware standards. These standards cover system reliability, payment processing, and accessibility.
• Security measures: Comply with Anti-Money Laundering requirements. Incorporate firewalls, encryption algorithms, and stringent player verification measures.
• Player protection: Ensure data protection and maintain fairness of the game. Adhere to data privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Moreover, test your Random Number Generator (RNG) to maintain fair game outcomes.

Prepare for these requirements before applying for an online gambling license. This way, you don’t waste your efforts and resources.

2. Application Process

Have you researched every bit of information about your target market and regulators? If yes, the next step is to inquire about their application process.

Applications for gaming licenses vary depending on the jurisdiction you choose. They do share similar denominators, including the following requirements:

• Complete documentation: You’ll be asked to submit complete documents, including business plans, legal agreements, and technical information. Regulators might even require you to submit an organization hierarchy. An organizational chart covers all positions, including senior associate business development manager and associate head of sales.
• Background checks: Gambling laws are stringent over operators with previous violations. Undergo criminal record checks and compliance history reviews to acquire an online gaming license.
• Proof of funds: Demonstrate the financial means to sustain your business. For example, regulators ask online casinos to show both their initial and working capital. Plus, they can also ask for a security deposit to guarantee that you comply with the policies.

Prepare all documents and check every small detail. Don’t let yourself earn a strike from the regulators.

3. Submission and Review

The last step is to finally submit your application for review. Again, we recommend polishing your documents, down to the smallest detail. You want to maintain a reputable image when operating an online gaming company.

Most regulators now accept online applications, where you can upload documents and fees. Depending on unique circumstances, you might have to wait weeks or months for your approval.

Even then, you can’t be sure that your gaming license application is approved. Here’s what you can do for each possible outcome:

• Approved license: Your application met all regulatory requirements. Now, the challenge is to continue operating legally to maintain and renew your online gambling license.
• Conditional approval: You’ve been given a provisional license to operate. However, you must submit additional requirements within the timeframe specified by the regulator.
• Rejected application: Ask for specific reasons why your application was disapproved. You might have to wait a certain amount of time before reapplying.

The gambling industry is actively strengthening its position and demonstrating unrelenting growth. This trend forces regulators to be stricter in approving licenses. Make your application count to gain a competitive advantage.

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Requirements for Obtaining an iGaming License

Prepare these requirements in advance to avoid issues in getting your iGaming license.

Legal and regulatory compliance

Every country, region, or state has its own set of gambling laws. For instance, US-based operators should understand online gambling laws in the United States. These legal frameworks are unique in their coverage and requirements.

The first step is to get licensed to operate legally in the online gambling market. However, maintaining your company’s reputation and credibility is a continuous process. Avoid gaming license suspension by taking these steps:

• Seek legal advice. Hire a legal counsel who is experienced in the gambling market. Ask for help in drafting legal documents and handling licensing applications. This makes for excellent protection against legal risks and creates a reputable brand image.
• Resolve legal disputes right away. Avoid prolonging legal issues in your application. Resolve the problems before submitting your online gambling license application.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes. The licensing process depends on regulatory policies and gambling laws. We recommend tracking changes in data protection laws and tax laws. Also, you must develop anti-money laundering risk prevention methods.

Prevention is better than cure. Protect your business and avoid legal conundrums before applying for an online gambling license.

Financial stability

Financial stability confirms the company’s reputation. This is very applicable to online casinos and gambling organizations.

Before you aspire to be one of the groups generating huge profits, you must have a financial framework. Gambling regulators require proof of financial stability, including the following documents:

• Financial projections
• Audited financial statements
• Proof of funds for operational and working costs
• Letters of bank references

Failure to pay fees won’t just damage your reputation. It could strip you of your online gaming license.

To be safe, we recommend hiring accounting experts to audit your financial standing. You can work with accounting firms like Deloitte or Ernst & Young (EY). These firms provide financial audits and predict your potential expenses in corporate tax and liabilities.

Technical and security standards

Remember, the context of online gaming is games played by online users.  Now, you don’t want your players to experience server downtime or system glitches. That’s why gaming companies invest in innovative and dynamic technology.

Different types of remote gambling license cover technical and security standards. This requires ongoing cooperation with software developers. Here are the technical and security requirements when getting an online gaming license:

• Technical standards: Make your website or app responsive and technically sound. Use a powerful hosting server and make your platform responsive on mobile devices.
• Security measures: Ensure strong data encryption methods and firewalls. You should also invest in secure payment processors software providers.

Gambling laws also dictate that you provide gambling addiction prevention measures. For example, an online casino should offer deposit limits and self-exclusion options. This is essential in getting a gaming license and remote gambling permit.

Common Challenges in Obtaining an iGaming License

Applying for an online gambling license could be a difficult ordeal. Even professional online gambling companies deal with issues in their licensing process.

However, these hurdles are common in the online gambling space. Here’s how you can overcome these challenges:

• Research thoroughly to navigate complex regulations. We recommend seeking expert advice and hiring legal counsel. Take your time and ensure that your application is spotless.
• Hire financial auditors to comply with high financial requirements. Have finance experts audit your finances and project future expenses. Develop a strong financial framework to show to the regulators.
• Invest in advanced tools to secure your systems. Regulators are strict in their technical and security standards. Plus, technical issues will cost you more in the long run.
• Develop a strong customer support system. All types of online gaming require 24/7 customer and technical support. Regulators review this requirement before granting an online gambling license.

Don’t rush the application process. Remember, applying for an online gambling license comes with application fees. Ensure that you tick all the boxes before having your application reviewed.

Maintaining Your iGaming License

Another serious challenge comes after getting your online gambling license. How can you maintain your license for a long time?

We’ve seen online casino and gambling brands breaking the law. Recently, Michigan sent a cease-and-desist letter to sports betting platform Bovada.

Strict compliance and watchful eyes are keys to maintaining your gaming license. Here are steps you can take to ensure your licensing compliance:

• Submit regulatory reports on time. First, keep all records of game results, financial transactions, and player interactions. Determine the format of the required regulatory reports. Then, the target is to submit the reports before the stipulated deadline.
• Hire external auditors. We strongly advise outsourcing auditing tasks to independent agencies. This guarantees an unbiased approach to your audits and reviews.
• Consult with legal experts to stay updated. Keep abreast of regulatory changes by hiring legal counsel and experts. Alternatively, you can visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website or reputable publications like iGaming Business.

Most importantly, instill an honest culture within your online casino and gambling business. There are legal terms online gaming license market has to deal with. Ensure that all records and transactions are compliant to the law.

How to Manage License Suspension or Revocation

Having your gambling license suspended is such a hassle. First, you lose revenue. Then next, you lose your hard-earned share in the market.

When it happens, the key is to act right away. Here are essential steps you can take to get your gambling license back:

• Request a detailed of the reasons why your license was suspended. The regulation authority should specify the factors, including non-compliance, security issues, and financial instability.
• Implement corrective actions right away. Let the regulators know that you’re immediately working on the problem. Record all activities and transactions as proof of your corrective actions.
• Maintain a good relationship with the regulators. Don’t let the license suspension further sour the image of your online casino or gambling brand. Communicate with the regulators and provide updates on your corrective actions.
• Consult with legal counsel. Gather records of your corrective actions and other supportive claims. Then, hire legal experts to help you appeal for your online casino or gambling license.

Most importantly, don’t let your team make the same mistake twice. Orient everyone about compliance procedures and customer support. Invest in advanced software providers and enhance your security systems.

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Other Tips for Starting an iGaming Business

Every iGaming business needs a gambling license to operate. But how can you be effective in penetrating the entertainment market and capturing your target audience?

These unique tips can help you acquire a sizable share of the market. Take a look:

• Lay out a local and international business plan. Don’t take your sights away from international expansion. Your head of sales FX and iGaming marketers should have deep knowledge of international gambling laws.
• Offer trending games and advanced technology. Research the market and identify currently in-demand games. Moreover, invest in the best gambling and sports betting software to ensure smooth gameplay.
• Create a multi-channel marketing strategy. Build your social media and search engine visibility through iGaming SEO agencies like Fortis Media. Outsourcing marketing tasks could be more cost-effective in acquiring and retaining players.

These tips can provide a fun experience for your players, while also establishing credibility before B2B providers.