Curacao's Online Gambling Landscape to Transform in 2026
Curaçao's online gambling landscape is set to undergo significant changes from January 2026, as local substance requirements become mandatory. This shift aims to enhance transparency and accountability, with each licensee required to maintain a permanent office and engage a full-time Key Person based in Curaçao.
Curaçao, long renowned for its accessibility and commercial advantages as an offshore jurisdiction, is now entering a new phase of regulatory development in its online gambling sector. The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA), established in December 2024, has taken over licensing and supervision duties, replacing the previous master and sub-license system with individual licenses for each operator.
The National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK) mandates a genuine physical and operational presence on the island for licensed operators. However, smaller operators may qualify for exemption from these requirements if they meet specific criteria, such as having no gambling history in the preceding two years and reporting annual Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) under XCG 20 million (~US$ 11.1 million).
The end of the grace period on 31 December 2025 marks a turning point for Curaçao's online gambling sector. Despite increased operational costs, Curaçao remains the most prominent and commercially viable licensing hub among flexible jurisdictions. The new regulations, while introducing stricter controls, aim to protect players and promote transparency, ensuring Curaçao's continued competitiveness in the global online gambling market.
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