Key Moments:
- Curacao and Anjouan authorities have introduced major changes to their casino licensing frameworks in 2025.
- Curacao now requires licensees to establish a legal entity in the jurisdiction, appoint local directors, and meet stricter AML and responsible gambling standards.
- Anjouan implemented a new Recognition Certificate scheme for B2B operators in July 2025, with a three-month transition period for existing partners.
Curacao Shifts Toward Enhanced Oversight
Over the past decade, Curacao eGaming has become a go-to destination for gambling companies seeking affordable certification. However, in 2025, the Curacao Gaming Authority (CGA) introduced sweeping reforms aimed at increasing transparency and bringing its operations closer in line with European standards. Operators must now establish a physical presence in Curacao, appoint directors based within the country, and adopt robust anti-money laundering and responsible gaming measures. The updated licensing system, established through the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK), also comes with higher costs, which are expected to limit the volume of entrants into the market.
Implications for Current and Prospective Operators
Companies launching new Curacao-licensed online casinos in 2025 are required to adhere to the new compliance standards from the outset. Existing operators that were certified under the former regime have a designated transition period to bring their operations up to the latest requirements or face exit from the jurisdiction. This shift seals legal loopholes and raises entry barriers, compelling operators to reevaluate their compliance strategies to maintain access to European markets. European regulators, for their part, have intensified their monitoring of offshore-licensed casinos to ensure that only reputable operators serve their residents.
Anjouan Licensing Services Gains Prominence
While typically less prominent than Curacao, Anjouan’s regulatory framework attracted increasing attention throughout the 2020s, particularly among cryptocurrency users and those valuing anonymity. In 2025, Anjouan introduced a Recognition Certificate for B2B operators, designed to expedite licensing for applicants holding certifications from reputable organizations such as the MGA. This acknowledgment fosters greater collaboration and standardization among international regulators.
Table: Key Licensing Changes in 2025
| Jurisdiction | Major 2025 Change | Effective Date | Transition Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curacao | Centralized licensing, physical presence, local directors required, stricter AML/responsible gambling standards | 2025 | For pre-existing operators |
| Anjouan | Recognition Certificate for B2B, expedited for holders of major certifications, enhanced technical and AML controls | July 2025 | Three months for existing partners |
New Technical Standards and Market Impact
Anjouan’s 2025 Recognition Certificate focuses on fairness, transparency, and robust anti-money laundering practices, including the integration of improved RNG testing and compliance with international financial protocols. These moves help reposition Anjouan from a niche player to a globally recognized authority.
Simultaneously, European regulators are increasing scrutiny over offshore online casinos, aiming to mitigate the influence of foreign-licensed operators in markets such as France. While many international gamblers continue to choose Curacao and Anjouan-licensed venues, the tightening of European access represents a significant obstacle for offshore service providers, potentially impacting their global revenue streams.
Conclusion
The revised licensing criteria in Curacao and Anjouan signify a heightened commitment to consumer safety and operational transparency. However, these upgrades alone do not assure dominance within European markets, as EU authorities continue to enforce strict adherence to their own regulatory standards. Operators must complement offshore licenses with robust anti-money laundering practices and a steadfast focus on responsible gaming to remain competitive.
- Author
Daniel Williams
