Poker License

Obtaining a poker license

When establishing a poker business, the initial and most crucial step is obtaining the necessary license. Many players have observed the rapid emergence and disappearance of gambling sites. To ensure that your project fully complies with legal requirements, guarantees long-term stability, and gains customer trust, acquiring a license is essential. At the same time the licensing process is highly complex and labor-intensive. Therefore, the Law&Trust Team is prepared to assist you in obtaining any required poker license, whether it be a full online casino license or a specialized one, such as those issued in Malta or the United Kingdom.
Our team possesses in-depth expertise in licensing procedures and corporate planning, allowing us to offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to your needs.

What is a poker license and why is it necessary?

A poker license grants a company official authorization to operate legally within the gambling industry. This document verifies that the service provider meets all regulatory requirements, ensuring that players receive full protection from fraudulent activities. Licensing is managed by designated regulatory bodies within specific jurisdictions, which rigorously assess applicants based on established criteria.

Benefits of a Poker Gambling License

Operational Stability: A licensed company operates smoothly without the risk of sudden restrictions or shutdowns, enabling sustainable business growth.
Customer Trust: Players prefer operators that safeguard their funds. A poker license significantly reduces financial risks for users.
Banking Credibility: Gambling activities are generally categorized as high-risk by financial institutions. However, possessing a license demonstrates compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, facilitating the opening of operational bank accounts.
Content Expansion: A well-developed poker platform attracts players through high-quality game offerings. Experienced developers can enhance user engagement, increasing player retention.
Advertising Authorization: Licensed operators can legally advertise their services, albeit under certain restrictions, providing a significant advantage over unlicensed businesses.

Law&Trust International offers free general consultation for the poker license obtaining.

With our services you can avoid many legal concerns.

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The poker licensing process varies by jurisdiction but generally includes the following steps:

Business Registration

Establishing a legal entity in the chosen jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with registered capital and local residency requirements.
Tax Registration

Obtaining a tax identification number.
AML Compliance

Appointing a Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) and developing internal policies to meet regulatory requirements.
Application Submission

Preparing and submitting the necessary documentation to the regulatory authority.
Legal Support

Providing assistance throughout the review process until approval is granted.
Post-License Compliance

Registering intellectual property, opening bank accounts, maintaining accounting records, and expanding into additional jurisdictions as needed.

Choosing a jurisdiction for an online poker license

Regulators issue gambling licenses in jurisdictions where online gambling is legally permitted. Licensing conditions, tax obligations, compliance requirements, costs, and reporting obligations differ by country. Selecting the right jurisdiction is a critical and complex decision. Our legal experts can conduct a thorough assessment of your project and recommend the most suitable jurisdiction and license type.

Gambling license in the United Kingdom

To operate an online poker business in the UK, an online casino license is required. This license is recognized globally and signifies a high standard of service and compliance. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) oversees regulation, implementing some of the most rigorous standards worldwide.

Key legislative requirements:

Qualification: Applicants must demonstrate industry experience, financial stability, and integrity.
Local Representation: While no direct requirement exists for local staff, a responsible representative must ensure regulatory compliance.
Capital Requirement: No fixed minimum capital is mandated, but the company must have sufficient financial resources to meet its obligations to players.

Fees:

Application Fee: Ranges from £4,224 to £91,686, depending on projected annual turnover.
Annual License Fee: Based on revenue, from £4,199 to over £793,729.

Company Establishment Requirements:

Registration as a UK-based company in accordance with local laws.
A physical legal address in the UK.
Directors and shareholders must comply with UKGC regulations.

Required documentation:

Company incorporation documents.
Identification documents of beneficial owners and key executives.
Criminal record certificates, proof of education, and financial records.
Business plan and financial projections.
Disclosure of funding sources.
Internal policies, including responsible gaming guidelines.
Software certification and contractual agreements.

Gambling license in Malta

Malta, a European Union member, is a prominent jurisdiction for gambling businesses. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has been regulating the industry since 2004. The MGA's inclusion on the UKGC's whitelist allows licensed operators to advertise their services in the UK market.

Key Legislative Requirements:

Qualification: Applicants must demonstrate industry expertise and pass a probity check.
Local Representation: License holders must appoint officials, including an AML officer, who must be residents of Malta or another EU country.
Capital Requirement: A minimum share capital of €100,000 is required for online poker operators.

Fees:

Application Fee: €5,000
Annual License Fee: €25,000
Monthly Compliance Contribution: Ranges from €15,000 to €350,000 based on revenue.

Company establishment requirements:

Registration in Malta following local legal frameworks.
A legal address within Malta.
Compliance with MGA regulations regarding company directors and shareholders.

Required Documentation:

Applicants must submit a notarized and translated set of documents, including:

Birth certificate, passport, and proof of residence.
Bank statements, reference letters, and source of funds verification.
Criminal record certificate and professional resume.
Existing gambling licenses (if applicable).
Company incorporation documents.
Business plan and financial strategy.
Internal policies covering AML/CFT procedures, responsible gaming, and technical documentation.
Software certifications and sample contracts with partners.