How Much Does a Gambling License Cost? Complete Price Guide 2024
A gambling license cost varies significantly depending on several factors like jurisdiction, type of gambling operation, and license duration. I'll break down the typical costs across major gambling jurisdictions.
For online gambling licenses, costs typically range from $15,000 to $500,000+ annually. Here's what you can expect in popular jurisdictions:
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) - Initial application fee: €2,000 - First year license fee: €25,000 - Annual renewal fee: €10,000 - Compliance contribution: 0.5% of gaming revenue
UK Gambling Commission - Application fee: £2,640 to £37,000 - Annual fee: £13,000 to £500,000+ - Varies based on annual revenue - Additional fees for different gambling types
Curacao - Setup fee: $4,000 - Annual license fee: $4,000 - Monthly fees: $1,500-$2,000 - One of the most affordable options
Gibraltar - Application fee: £100,000 - Annual renewal: £85,000 - Gaming tax: 0.15% of gaming revenue - Requires local presence
Additional costs to consider: - Legal consulting fees: $5,000-$30,000 - Compliance software: $10,000-$50,000 annually - Server hosting: $1,000-$5,000 monthly - Banking setup: $5,000-$20,000
For land-based casinos, costs are typically higher: - US state licenses: $200,000-$1,000,000+ - Equipment testing fees: $20,000-$100,000 - Background checks: $5,000-$15,000 per key employee - Renewal fees: 25-50% of initial license cost
The most cost-effective jurisdictions are Curacao and Kahnawake, while the UK and Malta offer more prestigious but expensive options. Remember that these costs are approximate and may change based on current regulations and specific business circumstances.
It's crucial to factor in not just the license fee but all associated costs when planning your gambling operation. Always consult with legal professionals familiar with gambling regulations in your target jurisdiction for the most accurate cost assessment.