Gibraltar Gambling Licence
UK-facing operators base of choice with efficient regulator and competitive tax.
What this licence covers
Gibraltar has been a preferred base for operators serving UK and European markets for over 20 years. The Gambling Commissioner runs a rigorous fit-and-proper test but the regulator is commercial and efficient. Popular with sportsbook operators targeting UK players.
Pros
- Long track record with UK-facing operators
- Competitive 1% gross gaming yield tax
- Efficient regulator with commercial mindset
- Full scope covers remote casino, sportsbook, bingo, poker
- Access to European banking and payment infrastructure
Cons
- Strict fit-and-proper test for beneficial owners
- Post-Brexit EU passporting uncertainty
- Requires Gibraltar substance (office, staff)
- Higher costs than offshore alternatives
Who should consider this licence
Operators targeting UK and European markets with significant sportsbook volume.
How to obtain a Gibraltar licence
Phased process for the Gibraltar under Gibraltar Licensing Authority. Typical timeline: 4 to 6 months.
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Phase 1 01
Pre-application consultation
Initial meeting with Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner, business model review and assessment of fit and proper suitability.
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Phase 2 02
Gibraltar corporate setup
Gibraltar company incorporated with registered office, local directors, company secretary and substance for GGT qualification.
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Phase 3 03
Licence application filing
Full application submitted to Gambling Commissioner - business plan, AML policy, software description and shareholder declarations.
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Phase 4 04
Technical assessment and suitability review
Platform and RNG technical review by Commissioner. Suitability assessment of all key persons and beneficial owners.
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Phase 5 05
Licence grant and conditions agreement
Commissioner determination. Licence conditions negotiated, 1% gross gaming yield tax confirmed and operations authorised.
Gibraltar licence questions
- What gaming tax does Gibraltar charge?
- Gibraltar charges 1% gross gaming yield tax, one of the lowest effective rates among prestige jurisdictions, capped at £425,000 per year.
- Does Gibraltar still provide UK market access after Brexit?
- Gibraltar-licensed operators serving UK players must also hold a UKGC licence. Gibraltar no longer provides automatic UK market access post-Brexit.
- How long does a Gibraltar gambling licence take?
- Typically 4 to 6 months from initial consultation to licence grant, with beneficial owner fit and proper review being the longest step.
We handle the paperwork. You handle the product.
Application support, corporate structuring, compliance setup and platform integration in one package. Scoped roadmap within 48 hours.