Why operators switch from Curacao to Anjouan

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 2025 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 Curacao’s LOK 2025 is changing the game

Curaçao’s National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK), effective in 2025, signals a major shift in licensing. Under the new rules, the master/sub-license system ends. All operators must now apply directly to the Curacao Gaming Authority (CGA), 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 12 months. Delays are possible—some applicants have already waited 5+ months with no clear end in sight. 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 Anjouan gaming license and get approval often within two to four 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 (typically €20,000–€25,000/year all-in)
• 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 Curacao 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 multi-month “pause” in business activity.

Typical timeline:

• Document preparation: 1–2 weeks
• Application review: 2–3 weeks
• Go-live: under 1 month, depending on complexity

Cost Comparison Table:

Key advantages of Anjouan for operators

A closer look at the benefits reveals why operators are voting with their feet:

• 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. The system recognizes evolving needs, 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, successfully rates similar to Curaçao, as these depend more on company profile and AML documentation than jurisdiction.
• Comprehensive coverage: One license covers all core iGaming activities—casino, sportsbook, poker, lottery, and eSports included.

Leading operators confirm these advantages. For example, when BC.Game encountered unexpected hurdles after moving to Curaçao’s new direct license, they switched to Anjouan and continued to thrive. More than 150 operators have followed suit.

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 as 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. Forward-thinking operators are now using this transition period to optimize corporate structures, improve compliance, and test new offerings with minimal risk.

Final thoughts

While Curaçao’s LOK brings important reforms, the increase in costs and complexity is prompting many operators to explore new alternatives. Anjouan offers a balanced mix of credibility, low operating barriers, and operational speed. For operators focused on efficiency and global reach, the jurisdiction provides exactly what they need to compete and grow in a rapidly changing regulatory landscape.