Tobique vs. Anjouan License: Which Gaming Jurisdiction to Choose for Your Business?
Choosing the right jurisdiction is a crucial step for any entrepreneur wondering how to get a gambling license….
Choosing the right jurisdiction is a crucial step for any entrepreneur wondering how to get a gambling license. This decision impacts cost, speed to market, and the project’s reputation. While many options exist, two stand out: the Canadian Tobique gambling license and the Anjouan gambling license (Comoros Islands).
Jurisdiction Overview
Tobique Gambling License (Canada)
The Tobique gambling license is a relatively new but already prominent player in the market. It is issued by the Tobique Gaming Commission (TGC), established in 2023 by the Tobique First Nation, an Indigenous community in Canada. Despite its recent inception, the jurisdiction is quickly building a reputation for its high standards, which inspires trust among players and partners.
Anjouan Gambling License (Comoros Islands)
In contrast, the Anjouan gambling license is a market veteran with over 20 years of history. Regulated by legislation from 2005, it is renowned for its affordability, fast processing, and low cost. This makes it an ideal choice for startups and entrepreneurs looking to test their business model quickly and with minimal investment before expanding into more complex and expensive jurisdictions.
Comparative Analysis: Advantages and Disadvantages
| Criterion | Tobique Gambling License | Anjouan Gambling License |
|---|---|---|
| License Cost | For those asking how much is a Tobique gambling license, the regulatory fee is €36,000. | The Anjouan gambling license cost is notably lower. The regulatory fee is €17,828, making the Anjouan gambling license price highly competitive. |
| Speed of Acquisition | The licensing process can take 2 to 3 months. | The licensing process can take 2 to 3 months. In practice, the process can be expedited to 1-1.5 months, contingent on the swift submission of all required documents. |
| Taxation | 0% profit tax, 0% VAT, and no tax on dividends. | 0% corporate tax on profits generated outside the Comoros Islands. |
| Jurisdiction's Reputation | Growing and promising. Associated with Canada, it has high standards and transparent requirements. It inspires greater trust among players. | Time-tested for startups. Known for being a fast, inexpensive, and straightforward jurisdiction. |
| Support and Compliance | Appointment of an MLRO is required. A foreign company can be used. There are no requirements for local directors. | Appointment of a Compliance Officer is required. A company registered in another jurisdiction can be used. |
Detailed Requirements for Obtaining a License
Let’s take a closer look at the anjouan gaming license requirements and those for Tobique.
| Requirement | Tobique Gambling License | Anjouan Gambling License |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Share Capital | None. | None. |
| Required Documents | Certified copies of passports and utility bills, Source of Funds/Wealth (SOF/SOW) verification, CV, criminal record certificate, corporate documents, and proof of domain ownership. | Business plan, certified copies of passports, proof of address, reference letters (from a lawyer/bank), declaration of source of funds, corporate documents, and description of games and their certification. |
| Application Review Period | Approximately 2-3 months. | Approximately 2 months. |
| Requirements for Beneficiaries | Must not be on sanctions lists and must have no criminal records or outstanding debts. Source of funds verification is required. There are no residency requirements. | Must not be on sanctions lists and must have no criminal records. There are no residency requirements. |
| Software Requirements | iGaming certification (RNG/RTP) or agreements with certified providers are mandatory. | A description of the games and proof of their certification must be provided. |
| AML/KYC Procedures | Mandatory appointment of an MLRO. KYC/AML policies must be in place. | Mandatory appointment of a Compliance Officer. Measures must be taken to prevent AML/CFT risks. |
Who is the Tobique gambling License For?
The Tobique license is the choice for projects that:
- Are prepared for a higher initial investment in exchange for a better reputation.
- Are focused on long-term development and want to build a solid foundation of trust from the outset.
- Value transparent and strict, yet fair, regulatory rules.
Who is the Anjouan gambling License For?
The Anjouan license is an ideal solution for:
- Startups with a limited budget.
- Projects that need the fastest possible time to market.
- Operators who need an all-in-one license covering all types of gambling (casino, sports, poker).
Conclusion
The final decision depends on your business strategy and financial capabilities. Before making a choice, we recommend consulting with the legal experts at SBSB, who will help you assess all the risks and advantages specific to your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a Tobique and an Anjouan gaming license?
A Tobique license is issued by the Tobique First Nation in Canada, while an Anjouan license is issued by the Union of Comoros. Both are offshore gaming licenses, but they differ in regulatory approach, cost, processing speed, and market recognition among operators and payment providers.
Which license is faster to obtain – Tobique or Anjouan?
In most cases, an Anjouan license is faster to obtain, with average approval times between 1 and 3 months. Tobique licenses may take longer due to additional administrative checks and regulatory procedures.
Which license offers better value for a startup gaming business?
For most startups and early-stage operators, the Anjouan license offers better value due to its lower setup and maintenance costs, faster processing, and flexible requirements, making it easier to launch and scale an online casino or sportsbook.
Which jurisdiction is better for crypto casinos or Web3 gaming projects?
Both jurisdictions can support crypto-based models, but Anjouan is typically preferred by crypto casinos and Web3 projects because of its streamlined approval process, flexible AML requirements, and good compatibility with crypto-friendly payment and processing solutions.
Are there any major risks in choosing Tobique or Anjouan for licensing?
As offshore jurisdictions, both Tobique and Anjouan require proper corporate structure, legal analysis and ongoing compliance. The main risks arise from poor structuring, using unqualified intermediaries, or misalignment between the license scope and the business model, which can affect banking and payment relationships.
How should I choose between a Tobique and an Anjouan gaming license?
The choice depends on your budget, launch timeline, target markets, technology stack, and risk profile. Anjouan is usually the best fit for fast and cost-efficient launches, while Tobique may suit operators looking for a specific North American affiliation. A specialist gaming law firm can help match the jurisdiction to your strategy.
