The Caribbean jurisdiction of Curaçao has entered a new era of gambling regulation with the introduction of the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK), effective December 24, 2024. This landmark legislation replaces the previous offshore gaming regime and establishes a modern, transparent, and internationally credible framework for both online and land-based gambling.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the key provisions of the LOK, licensing requirements, compliance obligations, and enforcement powers—all based on the official Curaçao Gambling Law Q&A published by the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA).
1. What Is Gambling Under Curaçao Law?
Curaçao defines a Game of Chance as any game where players pay money or monetary value to compete for prizes, and the outcome is determined by chance or a mix of chance and skill, without significant player influence. This includes:
- Sports betting
- Poker
- Remote Games of Chance (online games played via electronic communication without physical contact)
2. The Legal Framework: LOK Explained
The LOK replaces the old LBH (National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard) and introduces:
- Direct licensing by the CGA (ending the master/sub-license system)
- Stricter compliance standards aligned with FATF and EU norms
- Local substance requirements (office, servers, and key personnel in Curaçao)
The goal: enhanced integrity, player protection, and international credibility.
3. Who Regulates Gambling in Curaçao?
The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) now regulates:
- B2C operators (online casinos, sportsbooks)
- B2B suppliers (software providers, hosting, payment services)
- Land-based casinos
The CGA operates independently, enforcing transparency and compliance under the LOK.
4. Licensing: Types, Duration, and Fees
Licenses are available for:
- B2C Gaming License (Remote Games of Chance)
- B2B Supplier License (Critical services or goods)
Duration: Indefinite, subject to compliance
Application Fees:
Application Fees:
- Base fee: €4,592
- Additional fees for UBOs and qualified interest holders
Annual Fees: - Online Gaming License: €22,960 (CGA) + €24,490 (Treasury)
- Supplier License: €24,490
Applicants must establish local presence, including:
- A registered office in Curaçao
- Local servers
- Resident key roles
5. Prohibited Gambling Practices
Operators cannot offer:
- Games based on disasters or human exploitation
- Dishonorable or offensive games
- Credit gambling
- Access to minors or vulnerable persons
6. Advertising and Marketing Rules
Advertising is permitted but strictly regulated:
- Must comply with responsible gambling principles
- Cannot target minors or vulnerable persons
- Must avoid misleading claims or portraying gambling as a financial solution
Affiliates are allowed but not regulated.
7. Compliance and Responsible Gaming
Licensees must implement:
- Responsible Gaming Policies
- Age verification
- Self-exclusion tools
- Deposit limits
- Advertising controls
Operators must appoint a Responsible Gaming Officer and submit annual compliance reports.
8. AML/CFT Requirements
Effective April 2025, casinos must comply with:
- Customer Due Diligence (CDD)
- Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) for high-risk customers
- Reporting unusual transactions to the FIU
- Internal AML programs, including training and audits
9. Enforcement and Penalties
The CGA has broad powers, including:
- Administrative fines
- Corrective orders
- Suspension or revocation of licenses Criminal penalties for serious violations include up to 4 years imprisonment and sixth-category fines.
10. Taxation
Compliant companies enjoy a corporate tax rate of 0–2%, with no gaming tax applied.
Why Choose Curaçao in 2025?
Despite stricter compliance, Curaçao remains attractive for startups because:
- It offers regulatory credibility
- Maintains competitive costs
- Provides straightforward incorporation
- Ensures global acceptance of licenses
Key Takeaways
The LOK framework represents a new era for Curaçao’s gambling industry—one that prioritizes integrity, player protection, and international standards. For operators willing to comply, Curaçao offers a credible, cost-effective jurisdiction for online gaming ventures.
