Why operators switch from Curacao to Anjouan

Last updated: June 2026.

Over the past year, many gaming operators have started reassessing their choice of jurisdiction as new regulatory frameworks emerge worldwide. The shift away from Curaçao’s familiar licensing regime stands out. Operators are increasingly looking to Anjouan, part of the Comoros Islands, as a pragmatic alternative for 2026 and beyond. This change is more than a trend—it’s a strategic step toward cost control, operational flexibility, and future-proof compliance.

Let’s explore why industry leaders are moving from Curaçao to Anjouan, how the process works, and what advantages these operators can expect along the way.

How Curaçao’s LOK reform is changing the game

Curaçao’s National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK) signals a major shift in licensing. Under the new rules, the master/sub-license system ends. All operators must now apply directly to the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), pass enhanced compliance checks, and submit to regular audits.

Stronger player protections and increased transparency are positive for the market, but new costs and requirements are substantial. Here are a few highlights:

• Annual license fee: €47,450
• Application fee: €4,592
• Background check, UBO registration, and domain fees
• Higher ongoing reporting and audit obligations
• Local staff and physical office requirements

Existing sublicensees must transition within a set window. Delays are possible—some applicants have already waited 5+ months. For fast-moving startups or operators with high monthly costs, this is a significant challenge.

Why operators are moving to Anjouan

Anjouan offers a streamlined, business-oriented approach. Operators can apply for an Anjouan gaming license and get approval often within four to eight weeks. Instead of unpredictable licensing hurdles, they gain clear requirements, predictable costs, and a collaborative regulator.

Major benefits include:

• Single license covers all B2C gaming activities (casino, sportsbook, lottery, poker, and more)
• No gaming tax on gross revenue
• Lower setup and annual renewal fees
• No requirement for local staff or physical office
• AML, KYC, and fair gaming rules align with global standards
• Market access and payment provider integrations on par with Curaçao
• Fast processing—getting live in weeks instead of months

Importantly, market recognition is strong: leading platforms, payment gateways, and affiliates now accept Anjouan licenses without issue.

Migration plan: moving from Curaçao to Anjouan

Switching jurisdictions does not have to interrupt operations. Here’s a common step-by-step migration plan:

1. Company formation: Set up an international company (often in Anjouan, Seychelles, or BVI) to hold the license.
2. Document preparation: Gather business plan, personnel documents, due diligence, software info, and policies.
3. Application submission: File directly with Anjouan Licensing Services. Most operators need only an online meeting and standard KYC.
4. Compliance check: Regulator reviews technical and AML controls, then issues the license.
5. Banking and payment integration: Update or obtain payment processing agreements.
6. Start operations: Launch or migrate players. No need for a multi-month “pause” in business activity.

Cost & speed comparison:

Key advantages of Anjouan for operators

• Flexibility: Scale up or pivot operations globally without new licenses or local hiring obstacles.
• Fast market access: Get to market quickly—especially critical for startups or those with high staff and tech costs.
• Stable compliance: Anjouan’s legal regime is designed for international operators, with practical rules and adaptable oversight, including crypto payments and innovative iGaming formats.
• Cost management: Lower total cost of ownership due to modest license fees, no GGR taxes, and minimal overhead.
• Banking and payments: Proven ability to open bank accounts and set up payment gateways, with success depending more on company profile and AML documentation than on jurisdiction.
• Comprehensive coverage: One license covers all core iGaming activities—casino, sportsbook, poker, lottery, and eSports included.

In our practice, the operators who switch fastest are those already carrying high fixed costs under Curaçao’s direct regime — for them, Anjouan’s lower overhead and 4–8 week timeline pays back almost immediately.

Legal and practical considerations

Operators planning to migrate should:

• Review contracts: Notify game providers, affiliates, and payment partners of the change.
• Update disclosures: Clearly display new licensing and compliance information on player-facing websites.
• Comply with local rules: Ensure continued market access by monitoring restricted geographies per Anjouan and international standards.
• Maintain compliance: Implement robust AML/KYC procedures and appoint a compliance officer—requirements are similar across leading jurisdictions.

With proper planning, the transition can be smooth, with no disruption to operations or player experience.

Final thoughts

While Curaçao’s LOK brings important reforms, the increase in costs and complexity is prompting many operators to explore alternatives. Anjouan offers a balanced mix of credibility, low operating barriers, and operational speed—exactly what efficiency- and growth-focused operators need in a rapidly changing regulatory landscape.

Authoritative sources

• Anjouan Gaming Board — issuing regulator and public licence registry: anjouangaming.com
• Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) — the jurisdiction operators are leaving: gamingcontrolcuracao.org
• FATF — AML/CFT standards both regimes align to: fatf-gafi.org

Frequently asked questions

Is Anjouan cheaper than Curaçao under the LOK?

Generally yes. Anjouan starts from roughly €17,828/year all-in with no GGR tax and no local-office requirement, whereas the reformed Curaçao regime carries a €47,450+ annual fee plus application, audit and local-presence costs.

How long does the switch take?

Anjouan licensing typically completes in about 4–8 weeks; with parallel preparation, operators move without pausing the business.

Will payment providers accept an Anjouan licence?

Yes — major platforms, payment gateways and affiliates onboard Anjouan-licensed operators. Approval depends more on your company profile and AML documentation than on the jurisdiction itself.

Do I need a local office or staff in Anjouan?

No. Unlike Curaçao’s LOK regime, Anjouan does not require local staff or a physical office, which is a large part of the cost saving.

Full guide: why operators are moving from Curaçao to Anjouan — cost, requirements, the application process and jurisdiction comparisons in one place.

This article is for general informational purposes and reflects the regulatory position as of June 2026. It is not legal advice; gaming-licence requirements change and depend on your specific circumstances. Speak to a qualified adviser or the Legarithm team before acting.