Curaçao vs. Kahnawake License: which gaming Jurisdiction to сhoose for your business in 2025?
Choosing a gaming license is the foundation of any iGaming project. Two jurisdictions drawing particular interest today are…
Choosing a gaming license is the foundation of any iGaming project. Two jurisdictions drawing particular interest today are the prestigious Kahnawake gambling license (Canada) and the reformed Curaçao, which now offers new Curaçao gambling licenses.
For a long time, Curaçao was associated with sub-licensing. Now, it is transitioning to direct licensing from the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA), radically changing the rules of Curacao gambling.
Jurisdiction Overview
Kahnawake Gambling License
The Kahnawake gaming license, issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC) since 1999, is one of the oldest and most respected in the world. The Kahnawake online gambling license is renowned for its strict regulations, absence of taxes, and high level of trust.
Curaçao’s New Era
Curaçao is entering a new era. The new LOK law introduces the direct Curacao gambling license from a single regulator (CGA). The reform aims to enhance the jurisdiction’s reputation and introduce economic substance requirements. This makes the Curacao casino license a compelling option for a wider range of operators.
Comparative Analysis: Key Differences
| Criterion | Kahnawake Gambling License | Curaçao B2C License |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC), the authority behind Kahnawake gambling. | Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) |
| Entry Cost (1st Year) | This is the starting point for the overall Kahnawake gaming license cost. The Kahnawake license cost (regulatory fee) is 40,000 USD. | The Curacao gambling license cost (regulatory fee) is €47,450 EUR. |
| Annual Fees (from 2nd year) | Payment of annual license fee - 20,000 USD. Key Person Permit Renewal - 1,000 USD. | The regulatory fee is €47,450 EUR. |
| Timeframe for Acquisition | Approximately 6-8 months. | Approximately 7-8 months. |
| Local Presence Requirements | Mandatory local hosting (servers). No requirements for a local office or personnel. | Mandatory "substance": a local company, a physical office, and a minimum of one (prospectively up to three) key employee. |
| Taxation | 0% tax on gaming activities. | 0% profit tax for companies. |
| Reputation | Very high and stable. The Kahnawake gaming licence is recognized worldwide as a mark of quality. | Growing. The reform is aimed at significantly improving its image and increasing trust. |
Who is the Kahnawake License For?
The Kahnawake gambling license is a strategic choice for projects that:
- Prioritize reputation and are willing to pay for it.
- Plan to work with top-tier European banks and payment systems, for whom the license’s credibility is critical.
- Have a sufficient budget to cover the high initial and annual fees.
Who is the New Curaçao License For?
The updated Curaçao gambling license is an ideal solution for:
- Companies that are ready and plan to establish a real economic presence (office, employees) for long-term operations.
- Businesses that value the ability to operate legally in many markets and see potential in the jurisdiction’s “reboot.”
The final decision depends on your business model, budget, and strategic priorities. For an in-depth analysis and assistance in choosing the optimal jurisdiction for your project, it is recommended to consult with professional advisors, such as SBSB Fintech Lawyers. They have experience with both jurisdictions and can assist you at every stage of the licensing process.
