How to obtain a gambling licence in Anjouan: a step-by-step guide for iGaming operators
In order to legally enter the online gambling market, an operator needs to obtain the appropriate licence. This is a basic requirement, without which it is impossible to connect payment solutions, integrate gaming products, conduct partnerships with software suppliers and comply with international regulatory standards. Anjouan, an autonomous island within the Comoros Islands, is considered to be one of the most accessible and sought-after jurisdictions for iGaming licensing.
The jurisdiction attracts operators with transparent conditions, short timeframes for obtaining authorisation and democratic cost. All this makes the Anjouan licence a convenient and practical tool for entering the international online gambling market.
What is Anjouan's gambling licence?
Anjouan operates under an independent legal system that regulates gambling activities. The authority responsible for issuing permits is the Comoros Gaming Authority, known as the Anjouan Gaming Board. This body is internationally accredited and accepts applications from operators seeking to operate officially in the online segment.
The licence is suitable for various formats of iGaming business. These are:
- online casinos;
- sports betting and cyber sports betting platforms;
- online poker;
- lottery and bingo projects;
- fantasy sports games;
- live casinos.
The versatility of the authorisation and the flexibility of the regulator make the Anjouan licence a choice not only for start-ups but also for experienced operators operating in a multi-jurisdictional format.
Advantages of the Anjouan licence
- adequate lead times;
- relatively low cost;
- moderate KYC/AML requirements;
- loyal regulation;
- access to an international audience;
- reputation in the iGaming community;
- working for an international audience - no rigid attachment to a specific market;
- access to PSPs and banking - connected via trusted providers.
By obtaining such a licence, an operator can operate in most jurisdictions where there is no mandatory local licensing. This makes it easier to enter the markets of Asia, Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe.
Who can apply for a licence?
Both individuals and companies can apply for licensing. However, a mandatory condition is the presence of a registered legal entity. This can be:
- an offshore company (e.g. in Belize, Seychelles or BVI);
- a local company incorporated directly in Anjouan.
- It is also necessary to appoint a company representative and a paying agent to liaise with the regulator. It is recommended to apply through an accredited intermediary - this minimises the risk of rejection and speeds up the process.
Step-by-step process for obtaining a licence
1. Preparation of a package of documents.
- copies of passports of all final beneficiaries;
- CVs of key project participants;
- a brief business plan or description of the planned activities;
- AML and KYC policies - samples are available on the regulator's website;
- company's statutory documents.
Correctness and completeness of the package is critical: if there are discrepancies, additional enquiries or rejection of the application is possible.
2. Company registration.
- It is possible to register an offshore company (Belize, Seychelles, BVI, etc.);
- alternative is to register a legal entity in the territory of Anjouan;
- a local agent is required to submit and support the application.
3. Submitting an application.
- the review takes 2-4 weeks;
- if necessary, the regulator may request additional information;
- all communication is done through an authorised representative.
4. Payment of fees.
- registration fee - 17,000 euros;
- licence validity period - 1 year;
- annual renewal, the procedure is simplified and does not require a new set of documents.
5. Obtaining a licence.
After approval, the operator receives an official licence with a unique number, indication of the type of activity and legal entity. The document is allowed to be placed on the website - this increases the trust of users and partners. A sample licence can be requested from the regulator.
Additional services
- PSP integration - connection of payment gateways via certified solutions;
- access to game providers - directly or through aggregators.
- Comprehensive support ensures not only obtaining a licence, but also its effective use within the legal framework.
Possible limitations and risks
Despite the obvious pros, there are potential complications to consider. These are:
- evaluation by banks and PSPs - not all payment systems perceive Anjuan's licence in the same way, additional checks are possible;
- geo-blocking - the licence does not give the right to work in countries with local regulation (UK, USA, Malta, etc.);
- regular reporting - updated KYC documents and business reports must be submitted;
- regulatory control - random audits are possible in case of complaints.
Nevertheless, if all requirements are met and the legal model is correct, the Anjouan licence allows for legal, stable and scalable operations in international markets.
