The island of Anjouan, part of the Union of Comoros, is quickly becoming a popular alternative to longstanding licensing hubs like Curaçao. With attractive pricing and a rapid approval process, it’s easy to see why it’s so appealing for international operators, especially those focused on cryptocurrencies.
New operators and established brands, casinos and sportsbooks, and B2C and B2B companies can all agree: the Anjouan gambling license is the new go-to option.
While the license has been available for over two decades, it exploded in popularity during the restructuring of the Curaçao licensing system, and has only continued to gain steam. Affordable, flexible, with a short, straightforward application timeframe and worldwide recognition, it’s easy why international operators are focused on Anjouan as a licensing hub.
In this article, we’ll break down why the license is such a good choice, the benefits of having it, and the process that applicants go through.
What is the Anjouan iGaming license?
The Anjouan iGaming license is a universal, internationally recognized gambling license that covers all types of betting activities and games of chance. Licensees are entitled to organize sports betting, bingo, lotteries, slot machines, live table games, poker, scratch cards, and more, and no additional permits are required to add new games to the platform.
But just as important as the license’s scope are its price and timeframe: it’s one of the most affordable and effective ways to quickly launch an international iGaming project.
Why choose Anjouan for online gambling?
In 2025, Anjouan's popularity among iGaming operators can be explained by four key factors: affordability, flexibility, speed, and legitimacy.
The price of a license is a major concern. New operators need to keep their start-up costs as low as possible, and established brands need to avoid overspending when they’re trying to expand. Anjouan appeals to both, especially when it comes to taxation: no taxes are levied on gross gaming revenue, VAT, or corporate income.
The low licensing fees, as well as the very favorable taxation system, enable operators to invest all their profits in business development and marketing. This creates a stable and predictable financial environment, which is especially important in a competitive industry.
Corporate structuring can be a complex issue, which is why Anjouan offers very flexible conditions; companies can use a legal entity that is already registered in another country, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Cyprus, or the Seychelles. This simplifies tax and operational organization.
Another advantage is that the Anjouan license enjoys international recognition, as the country is a member of the World Trade Organization. However, there are restrictions; licensees are not permitted to operate in several regulated and prohibited markets; we cover this in more detail in the next section.
While in other jurisdictions, the licensing process can take several months, an Anjouan license is usually issued within two to four weeks of submitting a complete set of documents. Some other jurisdictions also issue separate licenses for each gambling vertical; the Anjouan license, on the other hand, is universal, covering all types of gambling, including casinos, sports betting, live games, poker, and lotteries.
Operators focused on blockchain tech like cryptocurrencies are especially drawn to crypto-friendly Anjouan, which officially permits the use of cryptocurrencies for deposits and payments. This is particularly significant for operators working in regions with limited banking services, including Latin America, Asia, and Africa. At the same time, the regulator maintains a high level of control and requires compliance with international AML/CFT standards, which maintains the license’s reputation.
What are the benefits of Anjouan's gaming license?
Let’s look at a few reasons why the Anjouan gambling license is such a popular choice for gambling businesses — and startups in particular — in 2025. Here are some key points:
International coverage
As a member of the World Trade Organization, Anjouan's gambling license is recognized internationally. However, there are countries that Anjouan gaming license holders are restricted from, including jurisdictions blacklisted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Licensees must use GEO IP technology to block access from the United States, France, Australia, the Netherlands, Curaçao, the United Kingdom, the Comoros Islands, Belize, Spain, Saint Martin, and St. Lucia.
Other than those, however, a single license allows you to operate in markets around the world.
Costs
The Anjouan license costs less than many comparable solutions, making it one of the most affordable options out there, which is perfect for most online gambling businesses, and especially for startups.
Tax benefits
The key financial advantage is the tax rate applied to gross gaming revenue: 0%. Operators are not taxed on the difference between player bets and winnings paid out; their only financial obligations are a fixed annual license fee and standard corporate service fees. This ensures maximum profitability and financial stability.
Dispensing speed
Obtaining an iGaming license in Anjouan is an exceptionally fast process. If the operator submits a complete and correctly prepared set of documents, they can receive approval and launch their project in as little as two to four weeks — a decisive advantage in the highly competitive iGaming industry.
High standards
Despite its speed and accessibility, the regulator maintains high standards of compliance. Due diligence procedures, as well as anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) requirements, comply with international standards. This ensures the legitimacy of the license and protects the reputation of the jurisdiction.
Crypto-friendly
Anjouan is a fully crypto-friendly jurisdiction. Operators are officially allowed to accept deposits and make payments in BTC, ETH, USDT, and other popular tokens. This attracts a large and growing segment of modern players and greatly simplifies international financial transactions.
Wide coverage
Anjouan offers an all-in-one license. A single permit covers all types of iGaming activities, including sports betting, casino slots, live dealers, poker, bingo, lotteries, and more. Operators do not need additional permits to expand their gaming portfolio.
B2C and B2B
Casino or sportsbook operators can apply for a B2C license, while B2B licenses are available for software providers. B2B providers who are already licensed in another jurisdiction can apply for a B2B recognition certificate.
Is the Anjouan license legit and regulated?
Legitimacy is a key issue, especially in an era when so many consumers prioritize ESG. The Anjouan gambling license is fully legal and regulated. Although it has only recently gained widespread recognition in the iGaming market, its regulatory framework has been intentionally developed to align with international standards. Authorized bodies strictly regulate the industry to ensure transparency, licensee accountability, and player protection.
Gambling regulatory authorities in Anjouan
The island’s gambling industry is overseen by two main regulatory bodies that are created to combat illegal activities:
- Anjouan Licensing Services Inc. (ALSI).
The ALSI ensures that businesses adhere to the highest standards of integrity, security, player safety, and transparency. This Anjouan gaming authority body makes sure that operators’ needs are met and the process flows as smoothly as possible.
- Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA)
The AOFA holds responsibility for wider financial sector regulations, including AML-CFT standards. By ensuring compliance with AML standards, it protects players, operators, and the legitimacy of the license.
Anjouan’s licensing framework was first established by the Betting and Gaming Act 2005, which has been updated in the intervening years to adapt to the modern market.
The background and security checks are very strict. Applicants with any connection to illegal activities are rejected. Authorities in Ajouan also keep an eye on the players themselves, for AML-CFT purposes as well as to prevent minors from playing.
Operators must demonstrate that their RNGs ensure the integrity and fairness of their games, as well as showing that they will successfully generate a sustainable amount of revenue. Software must be certified and domains should be secure. The license is valid for one year, to be renewed annually.
Types of licenses in Anjouan
Anjouan has a simple, straightforward licensing structure. The regulator offers two main types of licenses.
B2C license – for online gambling operators
The B2C license is intended for operators who work directly with players.
It is the primary license required to launch an online casino, bookmaker, poker room, or other enterprise that organizes games of chance and offers prizes. License holders can manage gaming sites, connect payment systems, accept deposits, run marketing campaigns, and pay out winnings. Its universal format allows all types of gambling to be offered under a single permit.
B2B license — for gaming solution providers
The B2B license is intended for companies that provide software and solutions for the iGaming industry.
This includes game developers, platform providers, content aggregators, and white label solution providers. Having a B2B license confirms that a company's products and business processes comply with international standards of fairness, security, and responsible gaming. With a B2B license, you can legally supply your products and services to B2C-licensed operators worldwide.
Costs and fees for a gambling license in Anjouan
When compared to other options, the Anjouan license is relatively affordable.
However, there are additional costs to keep in mind. For example, the gambling business must cover administrative fees and legal consultations. There is also an annual renewal fee, and while the license allows the operator to use up to two web addresses simultaneously, each additional web address must be paid for separately.
Requirements to get an Anjouan gambling license
The Anjouan gaming license is granted to companies that meet the jurisdiction’s requirements. Among others, these criteria are taken into consideration:
- Transparent cash flow. The operator is required to keep records of banking transactions and demonstrate where the funds come from.
- Information about the registration address. This data must be legally verified.
- Business plan. The applicant discloses the future direction of the business and financial expectations.
- Reports to be submitted. The company provides immediate information about significant changes and submits regular reports on its activities to the Anjouan Banking and Gaming Supervision Authority within a short period of time.
- Legal status. The applicant prepares and submits documents to obtain a gambling license in Anjouan as an officially registered entity.
- AML/CFT provisions. The company must appoint a representative responsible for monitoring compliance with the requirements.
Step-by-step instructions for obtaining an Anjuan gambling license
According to the experts in our legal department, the most important factors when choosing a license are your business plan, resources, and expected financial performance. Laying out what you have and where you’re trying to go will point you in the right direction. Checking whether the Anjouan gambling license covers all the needs for reaching goals is an essential step.
Pre-consultation
To be granted a license, operators need to fulfill all stages of the application respectively. The whole review can be divided into three crucial parts:
- Groundwork. First, the company has to demonstrate its competence. Also, the origin of funds of every party involved will be analyzed by the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board (ABGB).
- Audit. All key figures (such as owners, shareholders, directors, investors, etc.) in the business will go through Due Diligence and KYC checks.
- Documentation. All relevant forms must be filled in and downloaded online. The more prepared your company is, the less time the application process takes.
To pass all three parts of the application review, start with a proper company registration.
Company formation
To successfully apply for a license, the operator has to establish a company. Here are the initial steps of company registration:
- Establish a legal entity. First you must choose the company structure, such as a limited liability company (LLC).
- Appoint a local representative. The AOFA requires licensees to have a representative on hand to handle any issues that may arise and oversee operations.
- Open a bank account. Applicants must have a merchant account to conduct secure transactions.
After the registration procedure is complete, the company can move forward with their license application. We will share more details about the necessary documents to be collected below.
NOTE Both the server and the player database must be located in Anjouan.
Document submission
Here is the list of documents that applicants are required to supply:
- Certified copy of a valid passport (containing signatures and a photo)
- Recently received utility bill
- Police clearance certificate (a proof of no criminal cases recorded)
- Resume/CV
- Original banker’s reference (relationship has to be older than 2 years)
- Professional letter of reference from an accountant or lawyer (relationship has to be older than 2 years)
- Thorough gaming content explanation, including copies of RNP (if relevant) and agreement and/or third-party RNG testing certificates
- Proof of submitted domain ownership
- Copies of Terms & Conditions, which contain mandatory underage and responsible gaming policies and player KYC policies
NOTE The listed documents should be supplied in English (dated no older than 90 days). Otherwise certified English translations are required.
Please, keep in mind that the paperwork list is provided for your general awareness only. To make sure you have all paperwork required at the time of application, check the up-to-date list with the regulatory authorities.
Due diligence
Every key employee of the company (owner, director, beneficiary) must undergo strict KYC checks and integrity assessments.
Approval & license issuance
After successful completion of due diligence and payment of all necessary fees, the regulator makes a decision on approval and issues a gambling license to the company. This process usually takes 2-4 weeks from the date of submission of the complete set of documents.
Integration & going live
The final stage is technical integration and launch. At this stage, the operator connects payment systems and game providers and launches the platform. It is important to ensure that the servers containing player data are configured in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Taxation in Anjouan
Anjouan's tax system is one of its main advantages. Gambling license holders enjoy a zero tax rate on gross gaming revenue (GGR), setting Anjouan apart from most European licenses. The only mandatory payments are a fixed annual license fee and standard corporate contributions for company maintenance. The simple and transparent tax policy makes Anjouan an attractive choice for operators seeking to maintain and increase their profits.
Renewal of Anjouan iGaming license
The license renewal is conducted annually. There are strict requirements to maintain it. In addition to general compliance, operators should provide authorities with yearly reports and obligatory payments. Besides that, any important change has to be reported, as well as adding web addresses, which also require additional costs.
Looking to get licensed in Anjouan?
Anjouan is one of iGaming’s most affordable and attractive licensing jurisdictions. To get started with your application, get in touch for a free consultation.
Why is the Anjouan online gambling license beneficial for startups?
The Anjouan license provides operators with flexible conditions and the opportunity to test different options of business performance without substantial investments. It’s also one of the most affordable options on the market, and the application process has a relatively short time frame.
How do I get a gaming license in Anjouan?
As an operator, you can submit the application online, but first, you should register a company in Anjouan. Check the criteria mentioned in this article to see what is required in terms of documents and expenses. For more detailed and personalized information, please contact the relevant authorities.
How long does it take to get a gambling license in Anjouan?
The Anjouan gaming license is one of the fastest to get. If all goes smoothly, it takes just around 2-4 weeks for a gambling company to be found suitable for legal operation and granted a license (after the application is accurately checked and approved).
What taxes does a company with a gambling license in Anjouan have to pay?
Anjouan does not have a GGR tax, though there are other fees and costs involved.
Is auditing required for companies with a gambling license in Anjouan?
Yes, the audit is obligatory. Due Diligence evaluations are applied to every investor, director, shareholder, and other leading business participants.
How is the Anjouan gaming license different from the Curaçao license?
The Anjouan license differs from the Curaçao license in price, terms of the application review and the coverage of geographical business performance. Besides, the Curaçao license can be obtained either to B2B or to B2C (two different types of licenses). The Anjouan issues only one kind of license suitable for different operators.
Comments (4)
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