Curaçao, the well-known Dutch Caribbean island in the iGaming industry, is currently in the midst of a transformative phase in its online casino licensing procedures. This shift is driven by the implementation of the National Ordinance for Games of Chance by the government.

The introduction of the new legislation brings about a revamped licensing process, initiated in early September with the official launch of the license application portal by the Gaming Control Board.

Under the current legislation, the new portal is handling fresh applications and registering all sublicensees seeking continuity in their operations once the National Ordinance for Games of Chance becomes effective. Notably, the forthcoming law introduces a new regulatory body, the Curaçao Gaming Authority.

The updated legal framework specifies that licenses will only be granted to companies registered in Curaçao. This entails two key obligations for online casino operators: maintaining a registered Curaçao address and having at least one director based in the country.

Until the National Ordinance for Games of Chance takes effect, ongoing applications will be processed under the existing legislation, eliminating the immediate need for operators to establish a physical office on the island or employ local staff.

These adjustments constitute the primary alterations affecting online casino operators applying for licenses in Curaçao and those currently holding licenses aiming to sustain their operations.

The government's dedicated portal offers comprehensive information on the application process, complete with guidance. Operators are slated to commence the submission of their applications starting November 15.

Detailed Application Process
The application procedure is relatively straightforward, involving the completion of three forms: an application form, a corporate disclosure, and a personal disclosure. All these forms are accessible for download from the government portal.

The personal disclosure form is obligatory for all Ultimate Beneficial Owners holding a minimum 10 percent stake in the respective company, extending to key executives such as Chief Executive Officers.

The government has outlined a processing timeline of two months, applicable only to accurately completed applications. Successful applicants will be granted a provisional license for six months, during which they must submit audited policies and procedures.

Upon the enforcement of the National Ordinance for Games of Chance, the government will transfer all existing applications to the new format, irrespective of their current stage of processing.