When it comes to choosing an offshore gaming license in 2026, it has become much tougher than it used to be. Curaçao has completely changed its previous licensing system. Anjouan has now gone from being an outsider to a legitimate contender as well. A wrong choice here could cost you most of your initial capital long before you even launch your operation.
What Curaçao Looks Like Now
The Curaçao gaming license has also become more costly than it used to be. Due to the new licensing legislation (LOK), throughout, there is no longer a “master” licence shortcut – you will now deal with the relevant regulators directly and not have someone else manage the compliance process on behalf of the organisation.
Initial costs will be between €55,000 and €80,000 (first year).
You will have to wait between 6-8 weeks (and often longer) for approval.
You will have to set up a proper business office in Curaçao, appoint a local director and have at least one key member of staff on the island.
Payment processors and banks will also know about and trust the Curaçao licence.
If you have raised capital and your investment group requires a known licensing authority, the Curaçao licence is the correct one for you.
What Anjouan Looks Like Now
The Anjouan gaming licence is currently comparable to what the Curaçao gaming licence was thought of as being: fast, affordable and accommodative toward the use of cryptocurrencies.
As it stands now, the cost for Anjouan for the first year will be approximately €17,800.
Licensing approval can be obtained within 2-4 weeks.
No physical offices are required, no local employees are required to oversee the compliance process, and no travelling to Comoros will be necessary.
There is, however, a caveat with gaming licences in Anjouan concerning banking.
There are currently very few payment service providers who are set up to assist you with providing payment services using the Anjouan gaming licence but this will change rapidly. Additionally, the Anjouan gaming licence will cover the gaming of casino, sports betting and poker for a single fee.
The Side-by-Side
Which One Fits a Crypto Startup?
If you're looking to secure a crypto casino license in 2026, then Anjouan is likely to be the best option for most founders since you'll be able to keep your runway intact, go live in weeks instead of months, and just have an overall cleaner crypto fit. On the other hand, however, if you're looking for credibility from banks or institutions from the get-go, then Curaçao will still be your best bet.
Most casinos will eventually end up doing both anyways; however, they'll usually start with Anjouan, prove their product works, and then get their Curaçao licence once the revenue justifies it.
Conclusion
The decision between the Curaçao vs Anjouan licence ultimately comes down to whether you're trying to build trust (Curaçao) or simply get some runway (Anjouan), which is typically much more important for lean crypto startups.
FAQs
What is the Curacao license price?
The non-refundable application fee is around €4,600 and the yearly regulatory fee is €47,450 if you have a direct B2C Gaming License by way of Curacao.
Which country has Anjouan license?
A license from Anjouan is granted by Anjouan as being a Sovereign State of the Comorian Union (Union des Comores).
What is a Curaçao license?
Anjouan's online gambling licensing is given to companies who wish to operate their businesses online and through various gambling means (for example, as an online sportsbook, casino and/or through other crypto-gambling services).
How much does it cost to get a license in Anjouan?
If you want to start a business with an Anjouan Permit, it will likely cost you somewhere between €17,000 to €17,828 for the initial application, plus compliance, and have a recurring annual renewal of approximately €13,300 to €15,000 thereafter.