Updated Curacao eGaming License Fees 2025

For years, Curaçao has been a hub for online gaming operators drawn to its low costs and relaxed regulations. But that era is coming to an end. In 2025, Curaçao is rolling out one of the biggest regulatory overhauls in its history, replacing the decades-old National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard (NOOGH) with the far stricter National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK).

Why the sudden shift? Curaçao’s gaming sector has faced growing pressure to tighten its oversight, both from international regulators and financial institutions wary of lax compliance standards. The new law introduces higher licensing fees, stricter due diligence, and direct oversight by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), a major departure from the old system that relied heavily on master licenses and sub-licensing.

According to the Curaçao Gaming Control Board, these changes are meant to increase transparency, prevent fraud, and ensure fair play, bringing Curaçao in line with global regulatory expectations. But what does this mean for you as a business looking to enter or continue operating in Curaçao’s gaming industry? Let’s break it down.

Overview of the Licensing Changes

The biggest change in 2025 is the introduction of separate licenses for B2C operators (who provide gaming services to players) and B2B suppliers (who provide technology or services to operators).

Previously, only master license holders could issue sub-licenses, but under the new system, you must apply directly to the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB). This change is meant to eliminate the lack of direct regulatory oversight and stop the spread of unregulated sub-licenses, which had been a major concern under the old system.

Additionally, existing master licenses will not be renewed beyond their current expiration dates. If you hold one, you must transition to the new system before your license expires to continue operating legally.

New Curaçao eGaming License Fees (2025)

Understanding the new fee structure is critical for businesses looking to operate in Curaçao’s eGaming sector.

Below is a structured breakdown of the updated licensing costs:

Key Differences from the Old NOOGH System

Under the new LOK framework, several important changes have been introduced, significantly altering the way licensing works in Curaçao. These reforms aim to streamline operations and strengthen the island’s position as a reputable gaming jurisdiction.

Increased Costs: The new fees reflect the need for greater regulatory oversight. If you’re a B2C operator, your license will now cost around €24,600 per year, with an additional monthly fee of €2,050. This increase brings Curaçao’s licensing costs more in line with international standards.
Elimination of Master Licenses: You can no longer operate under a Master License. Instead, you must apply directly to the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) for your own license. This aims to provide more direct and efficient regulatory oversight, ensuring greater accountability.
Mandatory B2B Licensing: If you’re a B2B supplier, such as a software provider or payment processor, you now need to secure your own license. This change ensures that all entities in the gaming industry are properly regulated and increases transparency throughout the supply chain.
Enhanced Regulatory Standards: The new framework places a stronger focus on Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols and player protection. You must prove your financial stability, conduct technology audits, and follow strict KYC (Know Your Customer) standards to comply with international regulations.
Physical Presence Requirement: A major change under LOK is that you must have a physical presence in Curaçao, meaning you need a registered office and at least one local director. This ensures that you are directly accessible for oversight and compliance checks.

With these changes, it’s clear that Curaçao is moving toward a more structured and accountable system. But what does this mean if you’re currently operating under the old framework?

Transition Process for Existing License Holders

As part of the move to the new regulatory framework, if you hold existing licenses under the old NOOGH system, you must go through a transition process to comply with the LOK regulations. The transition is mandatory and involves several important steps that all operators need to take note of.

Master Licenses Will Expire: If you are holding master licenses, you will not be able to renew them beyond their current term. To continue operating legally, you must apply for a new license under the LOK framework before your current license expires. This means all current license holders must plan their transition carefully to avoid any disruptions in their operations.
Reapplication is Necessary: Even if you currently hold a valid license, you must submit a fresh application under the new system. This includes providing updated documentation, meeting the new regulatory standards, and undergoing due diligence checks.
Stronger Compliance Requirements: The transition will also require you to meet more rigorous compliance standards. For example, you will need to enhance your AML and KYC policies, undergo financial audits, and provide proof of operational readiness.
Grandfathering Provisions: You may receive a provisional license to continue operating while completing the reapplication process. These provisional licenses are valid for a limited time and may involve reduced fees during the transition period.

The transition process may seem daunting, but the goal is to create a more structured and regulated gaming environment in Curaçao. As you make the switch, you will benefit from increased credibility and access to more secure financial and business opportunities.

This shift not only secures compliance with new regulations but also brings important long-term benefits. Read on to discover why these changes are crucial for the future of Curaçao’s gaming industry.

Why These Changes Matter?

The updated licensing framework is a significant step forward for Curaçao’s gaming industry. While the increased costs may present challenges for some operators, the changes also offer several long-term benefits that will ultimately strengthen the sector.

Improved Industry Reputation: With direct oversight by the Curaçao Gaming Control Authority (GCA), the industry will gain credibility, making it easier for you to build trust with players and business partners.
Expanded Business Opportunities: If you comply with the new rules, you will have better access to financial institutions and global markets, making it easier to work with banks and payment processors.
Regulatory Stability: A structured process reduces the risk of sudden regulatory changes, giving you a more predictable business environment for long-term planning.
Increased Costs for Operators: While compliance costs will rise, planning ahead will help you avoid financial strain. Budgeting for these changes now will save you from operational disruptions later.

With these adjustments, Curaçao’s gaming industry is moving towards greater legitimacy and stability. Operators who adapt to these changes will be better positioned for success in a more regulated global market.

With these changes in place, you can gain a competitive edge in the regulated market. If you’re planning to apply for a Curaçao eGaming license in 2025, here’s how to get started.

Steps to Apply for a Curaçao eGaming License in 2025

For businesses looking to apply for a Curaçao gaming license under the new system, the application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation.

Here’s what you need to do:

Check Eligibility: Before applying, ensure that your company meets the updated requirements, including the necessity of having a physical presence in Curaçao. You will need to establish a registered office and appoint at least one local director to comply with the new regulations.
Gather Documentation: Prepare all the required documents, such as a detailed business plan, proof of financial stability, AML policies, KYC procedures, and personal background checks for key personnel. Ensuring that all documentation is accurate and complete will help streamline the application process.
Submit Your Application: Once you’ve gathered all necessary documentation, submit your application to the Curaçao Gaming Control Authority (GCA) along with the required fees. Be sure to complete the application forms thoroughly to avoid delays in processing.
Complete Due Diligence Checks: As part of the application process, you will be required to undergo thorough background checks for key personnel. This includes submitting personal documents and possibly attending interviews. These checks are part of the GCA’s effort to ensure that operators meet high standards of compliance.
Receive Approval & Start Operations: After the application is reviewed and approved, you will receive your Curaçao gaming license and can begin operations. However, it’s important to stay compliant with all ongoing regulatory requirements to maintain your license. Regular audits and reporting will be required.

By following these steps, operators can ensure they meet all the necessary legal requirements and are prepared to operate under the new system.

Summing Up

The 2025 updates to Curaçao’s eGaming licensing system mark a significant shift toward a more transparent and structured regulatory environment. While fees have increased, the benefits include greater credibility for license holders, improved regulatory oversight, and better long-term industry sustainability.

Adapting to these new regulations may seem challenging, but with the right approach, you can turn this transition into an opportunity. At Source Code Lab, we help gaming operators like you navigate these changes with ease. Whether you need a compliant platform, a seamless migration plan, or advanced features to stay ahead of the competition, we’ve got the expertise to support you.

Let’s talk about how we can help you build a stronger, future-proof gaming business. Reach out today.