Curaçao Gaming Control Board's Portal Now Live for Licence Applications

Beginning on 1 September, the portal revealed application forms and guidelines for potential applicants. However, it wasn't until 1 November that these hopefuls could officially register. The portal serves dual objectives. Firstly, it processes fresh applications per the GCB's present legislation. Secondly, it records all sub-licensees desiring to persist their operations post the activation of the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK). This ordinance's execution will also herald the birth of the new Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA).

Diverse Functions for Registrants

Those interested can now register on the GCB portal for five functions. These include account management, sub-license registration, game applications, license management, and an integrated ticketing system. But before these applications can be submitted on 15 November, a 15-day window is provided for account verification.

To qualify for verification, these accounts must be registered under a Curaçao-based company. Furthermore, they should utilize a unique company-affiliated email and possess an authorized letter from the company's Ultimate Beneficial Owner. Only after this thorough verification can the final application be submitted.

Towards A Seamless Transition

Successful applicants will be granted an interim Curaçao license. Following this, they are provided a six-month timeframe to furnish additional necessary documentation.

Dr. Javier Silvania, Curaçao's Finance Minister, recognized the importance of this day, stating, "The inception of November 2023 signifies a pivotal moment, redefining Curaçao's stance as a prominent gambling jurisdiction." Further emphasizing the gravity of this move, Aideen Shortt, advisor to the Minister of Finance, noted the overwhelming response to the portal's launch, equating the team's anticipation to "children awaiting Santa Claus."

Embracing Newer Regulations

This development is a continuation of Curaçao's journey towards embracing the LOK. Currently, the jurisdiction is undergoing a transition, setting the stage for a fresh regulatory framework. Once functional, the LOK promises a comprehensive revamp of Curaçao's extant gambling regulations.

In the previous month, Silvania had portrayed the LOK as a protective measure against potential greylisting, citing Gibraltar's status on the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) grey list. He emphasized how being a significant gambling hub can influence FATF's decisions, underlining the importance of revamped regulations.

A Portal for Progress

Curaçao's stride towards reshaping its gambling landscape is evident with the GCB portal's inauguration. It not only streamlines the application process but also prepares the island nation for more stringent and holistic gambling regulations.