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Global Online Gambling License in Multiple Jurisdictions

How to Obtain and Manage an Online Gambling License in Multiple Jurisdictions

Table of Contents

Securing an online gambling license in multiple jurisdictions is a strategic move for operators looking to expand globally. It requires navigating various regulatory landscapes, maintaining compliance, and building an efficient operational structure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help iGaming businesses manage licensing across several regions effectively.

1. Why Multi-Jurisdictional Licensing Matters

Obtaining licenses in multiple jurisdictions offers several benefits:

  • Market Access: Legally operate in multiple countries and tap into diverse player bases.
  • Credibility and Trust: Licenses from respected regulatory bodies enhance brand reputation.
  • Risk Diversification: Avoid dependence on a single market and reduce exposure to regional legal changes.

Operating legally across borders also reduces the impact of sudden law changes in one country. Popular jurisdictions include Malta Gaming Authority (EU-friendly, well-regarded) and the UK Gambling Commission (highly respected for UK operations).

2. Choosing the Right Jurisdictions

When targeting regions for expansion, assess:

  • Market Potential: Size, demand, and player behavior.
  • Regulatory Environment: Transparency and strictness of local gambling laws.
  • Taxation and Costs: Licensing fees, tax rates, and operational expenses.

Operators pursuing an online gambling license in multiple jurisdictions should prioritize both opportunity and feasibility.

3. Understand Local Licensing Requirements

Each region has its own licensing process. Key elements include:

  • License Types: Casino, sports betting, live dealer, etc.
  • Application Process: Required documents, background checks, financial disclosures.
  • Ongoing Compliance: Responsible gaming practices, audits, and regular reporting.

4. Build a Cross-Jurisdictional Compliance Framework

A strong compliance infrastructure is essential:

  • Centralized Compliance Team: Coordinate efforts across all licensed regions.
  • Standardized Policies: AML, KYC, and data protection policies adapted for each jurisdiction.
  • Training Programs: Regularly train staff on compliance updates and procedures.

5. Leverage Technology to Streamline Licensing

Tech tools make managing multiple licenses easier:

  • RegTech Solutions: Automate monitoring, reporting, and risk management.
  • Automated KYC/AML: Efficient identity verification and fraud detection.

6. Work with Local Legal Experts

Local professionals provide vital insights:

  • Regulatory Guidance: Stay aligned with current rules and licensing trends.
  • Cultural Fit: Align offerings with local expectations and preferences.

7. Stay Ahead of Regulatory Changes

Regular updates are crucial when operating under multiple licenses:

  • Join Industry Associations: Stay informed on global regulatory developments.
  • Monitor Government Updates: Follow official channels for legal changes in target jurisdictions.

8. Risk Management in Multi-Jurisdictional Operations

Manage the risks of having a broad licensing portfolio:

  • Diversified Licenses: Don’t rely on just one market.
  • Contingency Plans: Prepare for sudden regulatory shifts or legal challenges.

9. Budget for Licensing and Compliance Costs

Operating in multiple jurisdictions involves layered expenses:

  • License Application & Renewal Fees
  • Compliance Staffing & External Audits
  • Technology & Reporting Systems

10. Case Studies: Strategic Licensing Combinations in iGaming

Managing an online gambling license in multiple jurisdictions requires balancing costs, compliance, and market access. Here’s how leading operators structure their licensing portfolios:

1. European Focus (MGA + Local Licenses)

Example: Betsson Group

  • Licenses: Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen), Danish Gambling Authority, and others.
  • Strategy: MGA serves as a “base” EU license (cost-effective, broad reach), while local licenses (Sweden, Denmark) ensure compliance in regulated markets with strong player protection laws.
  • Why It Works: MGA covers non-localized markets, while country-specific licenses unlock direct marketing/payment access.

2. UK + Emerging Markets

Example: Entain (formerly GVC Holdings)

  • Licenses: UK Gambling Commission, Gibraltar, Germany, Italy, Colombia, South Africa.
  • Strategy: UKGC is mandatory for British players (high compliance standards), while Gibraltar supports B2B operations. Licenses in emerging markets (e.g., Colombia) capture growth early.

3. U.S. State-by-State + Global

Example: DraftKings

  • Licenses: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan (and other U.S. states), Malta, Ontario (Canada).
  • Strategy: U.S. requires per-state licensing (complex but lucrative). Malta covers international players outside North America.

4. LatAm Expansion via Local Licenses

Example: BetWarrior

  • Licenses: Buenos Aires (Argentina), Coljuegos (Colombia), SEGOB (Mexico), Curacao.
  • Strategy: Curacao provides a low-cost option for preliminary markets, while local licenses (Argentina, Colombia) build trust and avoid payment blocks.

5. African Market Entry

Example: 1xBet

  • Licenses: Nigeria (National Lottery Regulatory Commission), Kenya (Betting Control and Licensing Board), Curacao.
  • Strategy: Curacao covers unregulated regions, while African licenses legitimize operations in key markets.

6. EveryMatrix: A Blueprint for B2B Global Expansion

Licensing Portfolio:

  • Europe: Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), UK Gambling Commission, Sweden (Spelinspektionen), Romania (ONJN), Greece (HGC), Isle of Man.
  • Americas: New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania (U.S.), Ontario (Canada), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Peru.
  • Other Markets: Gibraltar, Western Cape (South Africa).

Why This Combination Works:

  • EU Dominance with MGA + Local Licenses
  • MGA serves as the primary license for B2B operations across non-strictly-regulated EU markets.
  • Local licenses (UK, Sweden, Romania) ensure compliance in high-revenue markets with strict advertising/banking rules.
  • North American Footprint
  • U.S. state licenses (NJ, MI, PA) and Ontario allow partnerships with major operators like BetMGM, DraftKings.
  • LatAm (Argentina, Peru) targets fast-growing markets with lighter regulatory burdens compared to Europe.
  • Emerging Markets Flexibility
  • South Africa’s Western Cape license provides access to a regulated African market.
  • Gibraltar offers tax efficiency for B2B services.

Key Lessons from EveryMatrix:

  • B2B Focus: As a platform provider, they prioritize licenses that appeal to partners (e.g., MGA for EU operators, U.S. licenses for local brands).
  • Phased Expansion: Entered mature markets (EU/UK) first, then added North America and emerging regions.
  • Cost-Benefit Balance: Avoids over-licensing (e.g., no Curacao—reliant on stricter jurisdictions for credibility).

Final Thoughts

Expanding through multi-jurisdictional online gambling licenses requires careful planning, local expertise, and a strong compliance backbone. Operators who succeed in this area gain a competitive edge through broader market access and long-term sustainability. For more detailed insights on specific licensing options and requirements, check out our guide on online gambling licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a multi-jurisdiction online gambling license?

A multi-jurisdiction online gambling license refers to holding legal permissions from multiple regulatory authorities across different countries or regions. This allows an operator to legally offer online casino or betting services in several markets simultaneously.

Why do online gambling operators need licenses in multiple jurisdictions?

Obtaining licenses in multiple jurisdictions enables operators to:

  • Expand into new markets legally
  • Build trust with players and partners
  • Reduce risks from regulatory changes in a single country

Which countries are best for obtaining online gambling licenses?

Popular jurisdictions include:

  • Malta (EU-friendly, well-regarded)
  • Anjouan
  • Isle of Man
  • Curacao (lower cost, fewer restrictions)
  • United Kingdom
  • New Jersey & other U.S. states
  • Ontario (Canada)

Each has its own benefits depending on the operator's goals.

How much does it cost to get licensed in multiple jurisdictions?

Costs vary greatly but typically include:

  • Application fees ($5,000–$100,000+ depending on region)
  • Ongoing license fees
  • Compliance costs (staff, audits, software)
  • Legal and consultancy fees

Can one license cover multiple countries?

Generally, no — most licenses are region-specific. However, some (like a Malta Gaming License) can provide access to the wider EU market under certain conditions. Still, it's common for global operators to hold several licenses to remain fully compliant.

How long does it take to obtain a gambling license?

It depends on the jurisdiction:

  • Curacao, Anjouan: 1–2 months
  • Malta, UK, Isle of Man: 3–6 months
  • US states: 6–12 months or longer

Timelines also depend on your documentation, background checks, and company structure.

Igor Rumyantsev

Igor Rumyantsev

Chief Commercial Officer at GGRSOFT

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