Anjouan iGaming License

In Anjouan, a single framework encompasses diverse web-based activities, including slot games, table games like roulette or blackjack, and live dealer services. This framework similarly covers poker variants such as Texas Hold’em and Omaha, supporting cash games and tournament formats.

It is worth noting that the Anjouan license for gambling and related activities is widely disputed in its international recognition. Operators seeking a more recognised and fail-proof European standard often look to the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). While Anjouan’s process is generally faster and less costly, a Malta license provides a higher level of perceived player protection and is more widely accepted by premium European banking institutions.

The licensing structure in Anjouan extends to global sports betting, including pre-match and live wagering markets. It also accommodates the eSports sector, which remains active year-round with events for games such as Counter-Strike and League of Legends.

Curaçao has historically served as a middle ground for sportsbooks, offering a relatively accessible entry point with a larger network of specialised platform providers than are typically found in Anjouan.

Anjouan’s environment is frequently used for projects involving cryptocurrency payments and blockchain-based gaming, such as “Play-to-Earn” (P2E) models. These operations use decentralised ledgers to handle transactions and verify game outcomes.

While Anjouan provides a functional base for crypto-native projects, Curaçao remains the most established jurisdiction for this niche. Most major crypto-casinos operate under Curaçao’s framework due to its long-standing ecosystem of crypto-friendly payment processors.

Digital lotteries, raffles, and video games featuring “lootbox” mechanics fall under the same general authorisation in Anjouan. The regulations in this area focus on ensuring that the random nature of rewards is transparent.

For businesses prioritising high-level regulatory scrutiny and a “gold standard” reputation for fairness, Malta is the preferred choice, though it involves significantly higher annual fees and more frequent technical audits than similar jurisdictions.

The authorisation process for web-based gambling in Anjouan includes adherence to regional statutes that mandate protocols for fair play and anti-money laundering. The scope includes:

• Sports and eSports wagering.
• Online casino operations.
• Blockchain-integrated gaming (GameFi).

Entrepreneurs in the iGaming sector often consider popular alternatives to the Anjouan framework, such as:

• Malta: Entities prioritising a high-tier European reputation often opt for a Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) license. While more resource-intensive to obtain, it offers broader access to European markets and a more recognised consumer protection framework than Anjouan.
• Curaçao: Often viewed as a direct alternative, Curaçao provides a similarly streamlined process but features a more mature ecosystem of third-party service providers and technical auditors.

The administrative process in Anjouan is designed for efficiency, with typical timeframes for application processing averaging approximately two months, provided all documentation is complete.

The standard administrative steps include:

1. Integrity Screening: An evaluation of the backgrounds of owners and beneficiaries to establish financial and ethical standing.
2. Fee Structure: Payment of initial registration costs and relevant administrative charges.
3. Application Review: A review of the applicant’s financial stability and operational plans.
4. Issuance and Renewal: Initial registrations are generally valid for one year and require annual renewal to remain active.

The Anjouan framework applies to a wide range of gambling activities under a single administrative umbrella. It accommodates the use of multiple brand names and domains, though additional URLs may involve further administrative costs.

• Server Location: The framework does not mandate the physical location of servers, providing flexibility in hosting.
• Banking: Registered entities can interface with various banking institutions, though the ease of account opening often depends on the bank’s internal risk assessment of the jurisdiction.
• Game Integration: New software or games can typically be integrated without the requirement for a new, separate application process.

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.

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.

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.

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.

According to the latest legal memorandum and regular internal compliance research by LegalBison lawyers, Anjouan’s autonomous administration does not hold sufficient authority to license and oversee financial, crypto, or iGaming activities independently. While the Anjouan-issued licenses are not officially recognised by the Union government, they continue to be used in practice, which does not provide legitimacy and can incur significant legal risks.

We strongly recommend entrepreneurs interested in Anjouan licensing to refer to the LegalBison team for detailed consultations and professional advice as to the current legal status of this authorisation.