Gambling License in Panama ⭐ Panama Gambling License from sb-sb.com

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Licenses for online casinos,
betting, skillgaming, lotteries etc.
Full-support for gaming projects

Panama leverages its famous canal to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, transforming it into a pivotal global hub for trade and finance. The legalization of the gambling business here occurred as early as 2002, allowing the country to accumulate significant experience in regulating this sector. Today, obtaining a Gambling license in Panama is a strategic move for operators aiming to enter the international market with a prestigious authorization that is recognized by banks and payment systems worldwide. The question of “is gambling legal in Panama” has been definitively answered, paving the way for a robust regulatory framework.

The regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing gambling activities is the Junta de Control de Juegos (JCJ) – the Gaming Control Board. It is the JCJ that sets the rules, issues licenses, and conducts oversight, ensuring a high level of transparency and protection for both operators and players. Unlike many other jurisdictions, Panama offers a single, universal license that covers all types of online games, making it an attractive and cost-effective solution for large-scale projects. This streamlined approach makes a Panama gambling license highly desirable.

Advantages of a Panamanian iGaming License

The Panamanian license, issued by the Junta de Control de Juegos (JCJ), offers a unique combination of advantages for those interested in gambling in Panama.

Access to a Growing Local Market: This is a new and key advantage. The ability to legally target an audience in a country with a projected market growth of almost $300 million is a unique opportunity not found in many other “offshore” jurisdictions. This expands the scope beyond just an iGaming License in Panama for international operations.
Zero Taxation on International Income: A classic and most powerful advantage of Panama. All profits derived from players outside the country are exempt from income tax (0% rate). This creates ideal conditions for maximizing profitability, making the Panama gambling licence an attractive fiscal choice.
Prestige and Banking Trust: Panama is not on any “black” or “grey” lists, which ensures its licenses carry high authority. This is critically important for opening accounts with reliable banks and connecting to international payment gateways, reinforcing the value of a Gambling license in Panama.
Universal Master License: A single license, valid for 7 years, covers all types of activities, from casinos to sports betting and poker. This saves time and money, eliminating the need to obtain multiple permits, simplifying the path to operate gambling in Panama. When asking “how much is a gambling license,” the long validity period makes it a cost-effective investment.
Stability and Infrastructure: A dollarized economy and a modern telecommunications network create an ideal environment for hosting servers and conducting uninterrupted operational activities, crucial for any online gambling license in Panama.

Requirements for Obtaining an iGaming License in Panama

To successfully pass the regulator’s (JCJ) scrutiny, it is necessary to meet a series of strict requirements, which can be divided into several key categories, all governed by Panama gambling regulations.

Corporate Requirements for a Gambling License in Panama

Specific Requirement	Detailed Description and Key Points
Registration of a Panamanian Company	It is necessary to establish a legal entity in the form of a Public Limited Company (Sociedad Anónima, S.A.). This forms the legal basis for conducting business in the jurisdiction and is the first step towards a Panama gambling license.
Physical Office Presence	A strict and mandatory requirement. Virtual offices are not accepted. The presence of a real office confirms the seriousness of the operator's intentions and its physical presence in the country, demonstrating adherence to Panama gambling regulations.
Appointment of a Local Legal Representative	Mandatory appointment of an accredited Panamanian lawyer. They act as the official liaison between your company and the JCJ regulator, essential for navigating the complexities of gambling in Panama.
Management Structure	The company must have at least 3 directors appointed. They may be non-residents of Panama, which provides flexibility in forming the management team for your iGaming License in Panama.

Documentation for Key Individuals for a Gambling License South Africa

Specific Requirement	Detailed Description and Key Points
Personal Document Package	For each founder, shareholder (with more than 10% stake), and director. Includes: 1) Notarized and apostilled copy of passport. 2) Certificate of no criminal record. 3) Original bank recommendation letter. 4) Proof of address. 5) Curriculum Vitae (CV). These are critical for the due diligence process for a Gambling license in Panama.

Business and Technical Documentation for an iGaming License in Panama

Specific Requirement	Detailed Description and Key Points
Detailed Business Plan	This is not a formality but a key document for gambling in Panama. It must contain: analysis of target markets (including local), marketing strategy, financial projections for 3 years, operational model, company structure.
Software and Games Description + RNG Certificate	A complete list of games, a description of their rules, and the platform used must be provided. A key element is a certificate for the Random Number Generator (RNG) from an accredited laboratory (e.g., iTech Labs, GLI, eCOGRA) to confirm the fairness of the games, crucial for an online gambling license in Panama.
AML/KYC Policies	A developed and ready-to-implement package of internal procedures for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. Documents must comply with international FATF standards, a non-negotiable aspect of Panama gambling regulations.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining a Gambling License in Panama

Obtaining a Panama gambling license is a marathon, not a sprint. The timelines indicated below reflect all stages, including preparation, approvals, checks, and potential delays. Understanding “how much is a gambling license” in terms of time is as important as the monetary cost.

Stage	Name of Stage	Key Actions	Estimated Time
1	Strategic Planning and Corporate Establishment	In-depth consultations with lawyers, development of corporate structure. Verification and preliminary approval of directors and beneficiaries. Registration of the company (S.A.), preparation of statutory documents. Search, agreement, and signing of a lease agreement for a physical office, critical for gambling in Panama.	2-3 months
2	Document Collection, Preparation, and Legalization	Collection of a full package of personal documents from key individuals (obtaining certificates and apostilles in different countries can take a long time). Drafting and approval of the business plan, financial models. Conducting a technical audit of the platform and obtaining an RNG certificate. Translation of the entire document package into Spanish, notarization, and apostille. This is a critical step for your iGaming License in Panama.	3-4 months
3	Final Audit and Official Submission	Comprehensive review of the entire document package by the Panamanian legal representative for compliance with JCJ requirements. Formation of the final case and official submission of the application to the Gaming Control Board.	1-2 weeks
4	Deep Regulatory Due Diligence	The longest and most unpredictable stage for a Gambling license in Panama. The JCJ conducts an exhaustive review of all aspects: from the reputation of the founders to the viability of the business model. Includes inquiries to international law enforcement agencies, verification of sources of funds. The regulator may repeatedly request additional documents or clarifications (RFIs), which suspends and extends the review process. This is where Panama gambling regulations are rigorously applied.	4-6 months
5	Final Approval	Upon successful completion of all checks, the JCJ issues a positive decision and sends official notification, getting you closer to your Panama gambling licence.	1-2 weeks
6	License Issuance and Activation	After receiving payment confirmation, the JCJ processes and issues the license. From this moment, your company can begin operational activities for gambling in Panama.	1-2 weeks

How to Start a Gambling Business in Panama

Launching a gambling project under Panamanian jurisdiction is a strategic process that can be broken down into several key stages for an iGaming License in Panama.

Step 1: Strategic and Legal Planning
The first and most important step is to consult with experienced lawyers, such as SBSB Fintech Lawyers. This will allow you to assess the viability of your business model, understand all risks, and develop a clear action plan.

Creation of a comprehensive business plan that will form the basis of your application.
Company structuring. Definition of beneficiaries, directors, and shareholders.

Step 2: Creating the Legal Foundation — Company Registration in Panama

Company registration in Panama, the essential first step towards a Panama gambling license.
Fulfilling the mandatory requirement for a physical office.
Appointment of a representative. Concluding an agreement with a local lawyer.

Step 3: Technical Preparation and Platform Selection

Software provider selection. Concluding an agreement with a reliable provider of gaming software and platform.
RNG certification (if applicable). Conducting an independent audit of your software and obtaining a certificate for the random number generator, crucial for online gambling license Panama.

Step 4: Preparing and Submitting the License Application

Document collection. Forming a complete package of personal and corporate documents, their translation, notarization, and apostille.
Submission of all necessary documents and applications to the JCJ. Official submission of the application through your legal representative. This is where you address “how much is a gambling license” in terms of application fees.

Step 5: Post-Licensing Actions and Launch

Opening bank accounts. After obtaining the license, it is necessary to open corporate and merchant accounts for accepting payments.
Payment system integration. Connecting to international payment gateways.
Website launch and marketing. Deploying the gambling website, initiating marketing campaigns, and attracting the first players to your gambling in Panama venture.

Types of Gambling Licenses in Panama

While one key license is crucial for international online business, it is important to understand the entire structure of gambling regulation in Panama offered by the JCJ. This overview highlights the scope of Panama gambling regulations.

Online Gaming Master License:
This is the primary and most sought-after type of license for international operators. It is universal and covers the entire spectrum of online activities:
- B2C (Business-to-Consumer): Direct provision of services to players, including online casinos, sports betting, poker rooms, bingo, lotteries, and live dealer games.
- B2B (Business-to-Business): The right to issue sub-licenses to other companies (White Label), provision of your platform, APIs for games, and payment solutions.
  This license is designed for serious projects targeting the global market, making it the definitive iGaming License in Panama.
Casino License (Land-Based):
This type of license is exclusively for physical, brick-and-mortar casinos. Typically, such licenses are issued to large hotel complexes and resorts. The requirements for obtaining this license differ significantly and include substantial investments in infrastructure and compliance with strict local standards, relevant for gambling in Panama physically.
Sports Events Betting Agency License (Land-Based):
This permit allows the opening of land-based sports betting shops (PPS) for sports events. Operators can accept bets on international and local sporting events. This license does not extend to online activities.
Type C Gaming Machine Hall License:
This license regulates the operation of separate halls equipped with gaming machines (slot machines). It also falls into the category of land-based business and has its specific requirements for premises, equipment, and reporting.

Thus, if your goal is to launch an international online casino or sportsbook, you need the Online Gaming Master License. The other types of licenses pertain to land-based gambling businesses and are irrelevant for iGaming projects.

Overview of the Online Gambling License in Panama

The Panamanian online gambling license, officially known as the “Contract for the Administration and Operation of Electronic Gambling Systems,” represents a unique and comprehensive solution. It is designed to meet the needs of large international operators seeking a single point of entry into the global market, addressing the core of Panama gambling.

Key Characteristics of the Panamanian iGaming License

Characteristic	Detailed Description
Regulatory Authority	Junta de Control de Juegos (JCJ) – Gaming Control Board, overseeing all Panama gambling regulations.
License Type	Universal "Master License," simplifying the process for an iGaming License in Panama.
Covered Activities	All types of online games: casino, slots, sports betting, poker, lotteries, bingo, live casino, fantasy sports, blockchain and cryptocurrency-based games (B2C and B2B), encompassing all gambling in Panama online.
Validity Period	7 years – one of the longest terms in the industry, ensuring long-term stability and a good answer to "how much is a gambling license" in terms of longevity.
Taxation	0% tax on profits derived from activities outside Panama (territorial taxation principle).
Mandatory Requirements	Registration of a Panamanian company, presence of a physical office, appointment of a local legal representative, all essential for a Panama gambling license.
Obtaining Timeline	On average 2-4 months with correct preparation of all documents, which is a relatively efficient timeframe for an online gambling license Panama.

Maintaining and Renewing a Gambling License in Panama

Obtaining a license is only the beginning. To maintain its validity for 7 years and successfully renew it, strict adherence to the regulator’s rules is essential for any Panama gambling licence.

Annual Maintenance:
This is a continuous process that includes several key obligations:

Timely payment of the annual fee.
Maintaining the company in “Good Standing” status. This includes paying annual corporate taxes and fees, as well as timely updating information in the Public Registry.
The company is obliged to maintain the lease agreement and real presence in Panama throughout the license’s validity period.
Compliance with AML/KYC policies. Regular transaction monitoring, record-keeping, and updating internal procedures in accordance with evolving international standards, vital for Panama gambling regulations.

Renewal Procedure After 7 Years:
The license renewal process upon its expiration is not automatic, but it is significantly simpler than the initial acquisition, provided the operator has an impeccable reputation.

Submission of a renewal application. Several months before the license expires, a corresponding application must be submitted to the JCJ.
Compliance review. The regulator will audit the company’s activities over the entire 7-year period. Payment history, absence of sanctions, player complaints, and compliance with all rules will be checked.
Confirmation of financial stability. The operator must demonstrate that its business remains financially stable.
Decision making. If the company has an impeccable reputation, the JCJ will make a positive decision to renew the license for another 7 years, allowing continued gambling in Panama.

The key to successful renewal is a proactive approach to compliance and maintaining transparent and trusting relationships with the regulator throughout the entire license validity period.

Why Choose SBSB Fintech Lawyers?

The world of iGaming License in Panama is complex and full of legal risks. Our key to success is over 10 years of experience, focused exclusively on iGaming, Fintech, Crypto, and Investments. We deeply understand both traditional gambling laws and the unique licensing requirements for blockchain casinos, enabling us to offer solutions that meet the challenges of the modern market and guarantee a positive outcome.

We offer comprehensive “turnkey” support, relieving you of all complexities. Our lawyers handle absolutely everything: from company registration and preparing the perfect package of documents to developing AML/KYC protocols. We analyze your business model to determine the optimal jurisdiction – be it a prestigious Gambling license in Panama, a Curacao license, or an MGA certificate, and provide practical assistance in critical tasks such as negotiating with payment systems.

Our approach, proven by the success of numerous clients, transforms the complex licensing process into a clear and predictable path. We guarantee that your project will not just be licensed but will also fully comply with all regulatory requirements, which is the key to its long-term stability. Trust the launch of your gambling business to a team that knows how to achieve results. Contact SBSB Fintech Lawyers to start your journey in the world of gambling in Panama with a reliable partner by your side.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Gambling License in Panama

Here we have compiled answers to the most important and frequent questions that entrepreneurs considering Panama for their iGaming project often ask.

Gambling Licenses

How realistic is the 10-12 month timeline for obtaining a license? Can it be faster?

The 10-12 month timeline is a realistic and even optimistic forecast for a Panama gambling license. It is driven not by the slowness of lawyers, but by the depth of the review by the JCJ regulator. The process includes thorough Due Diligence of beneficiaries, inquiries to international bodies, and a detailed analysis of the business model. Any attempt to “speed up” the process by providing incomplete information or circumventing requirements will only lead to further delays or outright refusal. We ensure the fastest possible processing through impeccable document preparation, which minimizes the number of additional requests from the regulator, helping to manage “how much is a gambling license” in terms of time investment.

Do I personally have to visit Panama for company registration and business operations?

Personal presence of founders and directors during the registration and application stages is generally not required. The entire process can be conducted remotely through your legal representative. However, the requirement for a physical office is unwavering. This office must be real, with a lease agreement and the ability to receive inspection from the regulator, a core part of Panama gambling regulations.

How crypto-friendly is the Panamanian license?

Panama is one of the most crypto-friendly jurisdictions in the world. The Gambling license in Panama allows for the legal and full use of cryptocurrencies for accepting deposits and making payouts. This is a huge competitive advantage for launching modern crypto-casinos. However, the regulator expects you to have advanced AML/KYC procedures implemented for tracking and analyzing crypto transactions, adhering to Panama gambling regulations.

What ongoing costs can I expect after obtaining the license?

After launching the project, you should budget for the following annual expenses:

Annual state fee for license maintenance.
Company maintenance: annual corporate fees and nominal service fees (if used).
Physical office rent.

Legal representative fees.
These costs contribute to the overall “how much is a gambling license” calculation over its lifespan.

Which markets can I enter with a Panamanian license? Are there any restrictions?

A Panama gambling license allows legal operation in most international markets. The main restrictions apply to countries where online gambling is completely prohibited at the state level or countries requiring a mandatory local license. It is important to understand that the operator bears the ultimate responsibility for complying with the legislation in each specific country where it offers its services. A Panamanian license serves as the foundation for legal international activity but does not negate the need to comply with local laws when operating gambling in Panama or globally.

Gambling license in Great Britain

up to 12 month

Gambling license in Estonia

up to 11 month

Gambling license in Isle Of Man

up to 6 month

Gambling license in Curacao

up to 4 month

Gambling license in Costa Rica

up to 1 month

Gambling license in Comoros

up to 3 month

Gambling license in Alderney

up to 6 month

Gambling license in Kahnawake