Curaçao Reopens Gaming Licensing Portal Amid Regulatory Changes

The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) is set to reopen its online licensing portal on July 15, 2024, at 00:01 local time. This reopening allows new applications under the current National Ordinance on Games of Hazard (NOOGH) legislation. This move comes as the GCB continues to prioritize applications submitted during the previous window, which closed on April 30, ensuring these are processed first.

Application Process and Updates

Applicants from B2C, B2B2C, and B2B sectors can submit their applications through the portal. The process has been slightly updated since the initial March guidelines, with the requirement for an authorization letter for portal users now removed. However, the GCB retains the right to conduct due diligence on these users.

To proceed with their applications, applicants must follow the guidelines outlined in the Application Submission Guidelines published in March 2024 and comply with the application manual available on the GCB portal. The portal features real-time checklists to help applicants track any outstanding documentation, aiming for a more efficient approval process. Nonetheless, the authority mentioned that some cases might still require additional steps.

New Procedural Changes for Applicants

A significant procedural change includes the necessity for applicants to establish an official representative on the online portal. The GCB advises operators to regularly check the portal and upload all relevant documents directly through the system. This practice is expected to expedite the application process as the authority may occasionally require additional input.

Upcoming Regulatory Improvements

The GCB has also clarified that existing Master Licenses will not be eligible for renewal after their expiration dates, which span from August 2024 to January 2025. Should the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK) become law before these dates, the Master Licenses will automatically end on the enactment date.

The LOK represents a significant step in Curaçao’s effort to update its gambling legislation. According to Curaçao’s Minister of Justice, Javier Silvania, the new regulation, anticipated to be enacted later this year, aims to protect users and stakeholders from grey market operators and enhance the jurisdiction’s reputation. This legislative update will also see the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) take over as the regulator.

Encouraging Compliance and Staying Informed

As the GCB continues to process applications and gradually transitions to the new regulatory environment, operators are encouraged to stay informed and comply with the updated requirements to secure their licenses. The island aims to strengthen its position as a reputable gaming jurisdiction with the upcoming implementation of the LOK, ensuring all operations face rigorous oversight.

Gambling Legislation in Curaçao

Curaçao’s gambling legislation is structured to provide a favorable environment for online gaming operators while ensuring robust regulatory oversight. Governed by the National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard (NOOGH), the island’s legal framework is designed to offer clear guidelines and requirements for gaming businesses. The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) oversees the implementation of these laws, ensuring compliance and maintaining the integrity of the gaming industry. One of the key advantages of Curaçao’s legislation is its single-license system, which simplifies the process for operators and allows them to offer a wide range of gaming services under one umbrella. This system is particularly attractive to startups and smaller operators looking for an accessible and efficient entry into the market.

Comparison with Neighboring Countries

Compared to its Caribbean neighbors, Curaçao’s gambling legislation is notably more streamlined and business-friendly. For instance, in Aruba, the regulatory environment is more fragmented, with multiple authorities overseeing different segments of the gambling industry, resulting in a more complex and time-consuming licensing process. Similarly, Sint Maarten, while having its regulatory framework, does not match Curaçao’s level of efficiency or international recognition. Sint Maarten’s licensing procedures can be more bureaucratic, which may deter potential operators. Conversely, Curaçao’s well-established legal framework and single-license system provide a more straightforward and cost-effective solution, making it a more attractive option for online gaming operators looking to establish themselves in the Caribbean region. This comparative ease of doing business has positioned Curaçao as a leading jurisdiction for online gaming in the region.

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