Guide to iGaming Licences

A Guide to iGaming Licences: Requirements and Costs for New Operators

A Guide to iGaming Licences: Requirements and Costs for New Operators

By

RSS
Follow by Email
Facebook
Twitter

Operators seeking to provide gaming services in the United Kingdom must obtain a UK gaming licence, which is essential for lawful operation.

This comprehensive encompasses all categories and provides details of the application procedure, regulatory stipulations, and related expenses. This material is crucial for understanding UK gambling rules and maintaining adherence to the UK Gambling Commission‘s requirements.

The UKGC Gambling License

Operating Licence   

UKGC Gambling License                                    

Operators in the UK must obtain a gaming licence from the UK Gaming Commission (UKGC) to operate an online betting site or online casino. The UKGC provides remote operation permits for several activities that may appeal to online gaming enterprises. But how do I know if I need a gaming licence?

If you plan to offer the,, these licences cover casino games accessed through several platforms, including mobile apps, TV, and websites. In addition, supplementary licences may be necessary for activities such as sports betting, online poker tournaments, or live dealer games, which are not included in the principal list.

To receive an operating licence, enterprises must meet eligibility criteria and adhere to the principles established by the Gambling Commission. It is crucial to remember that different licences come with varied prices, depending on the gambling operations and the estimated yearly gross income.

The applicant’s honesty, history, integrity, qualifications, and experience are important characteristics considered during the application process. These particular aspects pertain to the operating licences and their website.

 PML License

A Personal Management Licence (PML) is mandatory for those occupying designated management positions within the UK gaming sector. These licences guarantee that individuals managing gaming establishments or capable of affecting gambling results are directly responsible to the Gaming Commission. Individuals are required to possess a PML if they are accountable for:

  • The administration of the authorised gaming operation
  • The fiscal matters of the society
  • Ensuring compliance with the Gambling Act 2005

The Gambling Commission may impose particular conditions on personal licences, including mandates for periodic accounting records. PML holders are accountable for adhering to these standards and preserving the integrity of the gaming sector. For additional information regarding PMLs, consult the Gambling Commission’s guide.

PFL License

A Personal Functional Licence

A Personal Functional Licence (PFL) is mandatory for individuals occupying certain positions within the UK gaming sector. This licence guarantees that the Gaming Commission holds those who manage gaming establishments or affect the results of gambling operations responsible.

Positions that often require a PFL encompass gaming supervisors, security personnel, and those engaged in gambling-related oversight and surveillance. Casino supervisors and pit supervisors must possess a valid PFL. Applying for a PFL necessitates a procedure that entails submitting personal information, disclosing any criminal convictions, and remitting a licence application cost.

The Gambling Commission will issue a PFL to successful applicants. The commission may impose particular requirements on the PFL to ensure compliance with responsible gaming principles, uphold integrity, and comply with applicable rules. The guidance for licensing authorities can offer more clarity regarding these standards and expectations.

Meeting Requirements for UK Gambling Licences

Acquiring a UK gaming licence to provide the best first deposit bonus casinos necessitates adherence to many prerequisites and a defined procedure. In accordance with the Gambling Act 2005, applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a licence. The application procedure requires approximately 16 weeks, contingent upon submitting all necessary information at the time of application.

Applicants must provide many documents during the application procedure, including:

  • Identity information
  • Details of gambling software
  • Map of the operational paradigm
  • Diagram of the ownership structure
  • Management structure Gambling licences from other regions, if applicable
  • Technical specifications for remote locations
  • Bank statements from the previous six months
  • A business strategy

The UKGC also provides PFL and PML Licences, which are necessary for specific positions within the wagering industry. To preserve their licences, all operators are required to strictly adhere to worldwide money laundering regulations, which include conducting customer due diligence, reporting suspicious transactions, and maintaining robust anti-money laundering policies.

Gambling operators must contribute a 21% unbounded tax rate on earnings, along with licensing fees. It is crucial to emphasise that licensing is compulsory, regardless of the location of an operator’s online wagering platform. Operators are required to possess a licence to provide services in the United Kingdom.

The Price of UK Gambling Licences

Price of UK Gambling Licences

The expense of acquiring a UK gambling licence depends on various factors, including the licence type and the operator’s GGY (Gross Gambling Yield). Operators with a GGY under £550k are anticipated to remit an application charge of around £4,000 and an annual fee of £4,000. Nonetheless, the expenses can fluctuate considerably among various licensees and operators with distinct GGYs.

Operators with a GGY under £1.5 million must pay an annual fee of £2,406 and an application cost of £938. Additionally, there may be other expenses related to acquiring a licence, including fees for PML and PFL licences, which are necessary for particular positions within the gaming industry.

Premises licences incur other expenses besides the annual and application payments. These licences authorise establishments to conduct a singular designated gambling activity. The new licensing charge for a Bingo establishment is £3,500, while for an 18+ Gambling Facility, it is £2,000.

These expenses are variable; it is advisable to verify the most current fees on the UK’s official website or get counsel from a legal expert.

Author Profile

Christy Bella
Blogger by Passion | Contributor to many Business Blogs in the United Kingdom | Fascinated to Write Blogs in Business & Startup Niches |