Where to register a company for an online casino in 2025: top jurisdictions for launching a gambling business — Anjouan, Curaçao, Cyprus and others

Some gambling licenses strictly require registering a company within the same jurisdiction. This is a mandatory condition for obtaining a license:

• Curacao – requires a local company (typically an NV or BV) registered with a licensed service provider.
• Malta – requires a resident company with substance (office, local director, employees).
• Isle of Man – only local structures with proven presence are accepted.

If you're considering one of these licenses, registering a local entity is a non-negotiable part of the process, impacting taxation, costs, and timeframes.

In 2025, more entrepreneurs are choosing Anjouan (Comoros) and Tobique First Nation (Canada) licenses because of their simplicity. The key benefit: no need to register a company in the licensing country. You can obtain the license using an entity from a friendly jurisdiction.
This provides flexibility and cost-efficiency:

• Choose a jurisdiction with favorable tax regimes.
• Easier to integrate payment solutions.
• Faster compliance with banks and PSPs.
• Lower ongoing administrative costs.

Below are the jurisdictions we most frequently recommend and use for our clients:
1. Costa Rica

• Neutral reputation in banking and compliance
• Simple reporting requirements
• Popular for Latin American clients
• Compatible with Tobique and Anjouan licenses

2. Cyprus

• EU-based jurisdiction with full transparency
• Well-accepted by banks and PSPs
• Favorable for long-term tax structuring

3. Belize

• Moderate compliance requirements
• Suitable for high-risk projects
• Commonly used for Anjouan licensing without substance

4. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Fast registration process
• Low maintenance costs
• Flexible structure for quick market entry

In practice, registering a company in one country and obtaining a license in another can lead to significant risks. Some jurisdictions have already begun requiring such companies to either cease operations or transfer the license to a locally registered legal entity.
This may result in:

• business interruption,
• rejection by payment providers,
• or even legal consequences.

We recommend registering the company in the same jurisdiction where the license is obtained. This minimizes risks, simplifies compliance, and ensures full alignment with regulatory requirements.