Anjouan iGaming License

Regulatory Requirements and Application Procedures

To obtain a gaming license in Anjouan, applicants must submit to a standardised vetting process. This involves providing specific corporate and personal documentation to the regulatory body. The required minimum documentation for securing the license involves:

• Corporate Records: Articles of incorporation, a structured business strategy, and internal policies for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT), including Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols.

• Operational Agreements: Service level agreements with game providers and defined terms and conditions for end-users.

• Personal Vetting: Notarised passport copies, criminal record clearances, professional resumes, utility bills, and references from two banks and two previous employers for all directors and beneficial owners.

• Fitness Assessment: Shareholders and directors must undergo a "Fit and Proper" evaluation to determine their suitability for the sector.

The administrative process for obtaining the license normally includes:

1. Submission: Filing of the application form and all supporting documentation.

2. Background Checks: Investigation into the financial capacity and ethical history of the involved parties.

3. Issuance: If the criteria are met, a one-year renewable license is granted.

4. Ongoing Costs: Maintenance of the license requires the payment of initial application fees and subsequent annual renewal fees.

These are the baseline requirements; the exact documentation package is defined upon a proper legal analysis of your iGaming startup.

Classifications of Licenses

The Anjouan framework distinguishes between two primary types of authorisations based on the target audience:

• B2B License: Directed at companies providing services to other businesses, such as white-label software and IT solutions.

• B2C License: Directed at operators providing services directly to individual players.

The scope of these permits includes conventional activities like online casinos (slots, table games), sports wagering, and poker, as well as digital lotteries and eSports betting. The framework also covers blockchain-based activities, including cryptocurrency games and "Play-to-Earn" (P2E) models.

Many entrepreneurs consider popular alternatives when it comes to iGaming licensing:

• Curaçao: Frequently used as an alternative to Anjouan, Curaçao provides a similar single-license structure but is supported by a more mature infrastructure of specialised legal and technical service providers.

• Malta (MGA): For operators targeting regulated European markets, Malta is the standard alternative. It requires a more rigorous application process and higher capital reserves but offers a higher level of international regulatory recognition.

Corporate Structure and Taxation

Gaming activities in Anjouan are typically conducted through an International Business Company (IBC).

IBC Characteristics:

• Local Presence: An IBC must appoint a registered agent or local representative. While physical staff are not mandated, compliance with local economic substance standards is required.

• Operational Restrictions: IBCs are restricted from providing services to residents of Anjouan or conducting business within the local territory.

• Taxation: As IBCs are not considered tax residents, they are not subject to local municipal taxes on gross gaming income. This differs from jurisdictions like Malta, where operators are subject to specific gaming taxes and EU-aligned corporate tax structures.

Operational Obligations

License holders must adhere to the Betting and Gaming Act of 2005, which outlines the ongoing responsibilities of the operator. These include:

• AML/CFT Compliance: Appointment of a dedicated officer to oversee financial crime prevention and ensure accurate record-keeping of all transactions.

• Player Protection: Implementing measures to identify and protect vulnerable players and prevent underage gambling.

• Reporting: Regular submission of operational reports and notification of any changes in corporate structure or software providers.

• Audits: Periodic technical and financial audits are required to maintain the validity of the license.

While Anjouan requires operators to appoint an AML/CFT officer and adhere to reporting standards, many businesses seeking a higher tier of regulatory recognition opt for the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). Often regarded as the "gold standard" of the industry, a Malta license provides a strategic advantage by offering a badge of excellence that is widely respected by Tier-1 banks, payment providers, and major global affiliates. Furthermore, as an EU member state, Malta offers a stable political environment and a comprehensive regulatory ecosystem that facilitates easier market entry across Europe and strengthens long-term brand equity and institutional trust.