If you’re working in iGaming, you know just how challenging it’s become to find a cost-effective license option that’s fast to set up, globally recognized, and not buried in red tape. Traditionally, many operators turned to Curacao for its approachable online gambling license, but rising costs and tighter regulations have left startups and small companies looking elsewhere. Enter Anjouan—a tropical island in the Indian Ocean that’s suddenly getting a lot of attention. In this article, I’ll break down why more and more online gambling operators are moving to Anjouan and what you need to know if you’re considering it as an alternative.
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What is the Anjouan gambling license?
Anjouan is part of the Union of the Comoros, located between Madagascar and mainland Africa. Its gaming license isn’t brand new—the framework has existed since 2005—but only in recent years has it emerged as a prominent competitor to Curacao and other offshore licensing centers. The Anjouan license covers multiple forms of online gaming, including casino, sportsbook, poker, lottery, and even blockchain-based games. For operators, it means you can run a full range of online gambling activities under just one license.
Why is Anjouan becoming so popular?
Lower costs and fewer barriers
One of Anjouan’s biggest advantages is the low cost of entry. Application and renewal fees are among the lowest in the industry. There are no taxes on your gross gaming revenue (GGR) from Anjouan—this alone can save businesses thousands each month. The setup process is also much less bureaucratic than established jurisdictions; you can expect approval in about three to four weeks if your documents are in order. These savings and short timelines are a major advantage for startups or operators with lean budgets.
Simple and fast licensing process
If you’ve looked at jurisdictions like Malta or the UK, you know that getting licensed often takes months and requires detailed audits, on-site offices, and extensive compliance procedures. In Anjouan, the requirements are straightforward: register a local company, provide basic documentation, and pass due diligence checks. No need for heavy local presence or complex reporting right out of the gate. For many, the convenience alone is worth it.
Broad coverage and flexibility
Anjouan’s model is built for flexibility, allowing a huge range of business models—from crypto casinos to sports betting and beyond. One license gives you the legal foundation to operate a multi-vertical gambling site. Plus, unlike in other jurisdictions, Anjouan’s framework supports fast scaling, business model pivots, and easy updates to your license as your business grows.
International access
While Anjouan itself is a small island, its license is internationally recognized. This allows operators to target a broad spectrum of markets—Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Eastern Europe have been particularly attractive given their fast-growing online gambling sectors. However, like all offshore licenses, operators must respect international restrictions (such as avoiding the US and certain Western European markets without additional local permits).
Comparing Anjouan to Curacao
Regulatory frameworks
Curacao recently underwent a major overhaul of its regulatory system. This means higher costs, stricter audits, and more stringent anti-money-laundering (AML) and responsible gambling rules. For large, established brands, this is a positive change—it boosts credibility and trust with players and regulators. But for smaller companies and start-ups, the step-up in time, cost, and compliance can be a dealbreaker.
Anjouan, on the other hand, maintains a more relaxed environment. The requirements for Know Your Customer (KYC) and AML measures are still present and in line with global standards, but with less bureaucracy and more practical support from local authorities.
Timeframes and ongoing costs
Getting a Curacao license can now take several months with higher upfront and ongoing fees. For Anjouan, it’s possible to complete the whole process in under a month, often for a fraction of the price. Renewal costs are predictable and low.
For operators wanting to test a new platform, move quickly to market, or get proof-of-concept before scaling, Anjouan’s license can be a strategic starting point.
Market perception and banking
Curacao is globally recognized—most payment providers, banks, and players know it and accept it. Anjouan is still building its reputation, with recognition growing fast due to the influx of new licensees over the last two years. For banking, payment gateways, and partnerships, Anjouan-licensed businesses still have access to the key suppliers and service providers, especially as the license covers compliance procedures required by international financial institutions.
What types of operators benefit most from the Anjouan license?
- Startups and entrepreneurs: The low fees and quick turnaround are perfect for businesses that need to get to market quickly with minimum investment.
- Crypto casinos and innovative tech: Anjouan is open to projects using blockchain, alternative payment rails, and unique gaming formats. It’s one of the few offshore licenses to openly support these sectors.
- Businesses targeting emerging markets: If your main player base is in Africa, Asia, or Latin America, the Anjouan license opens doors without complicated multi-jurisdictional licensing headaches.
- Operators aiming for flexibility: Whether you want to pivot between casino, lottery, sportsbook, and other products, Anjouan licenses are suited for diverse online gambling models.
Compliance and ongoing obligations
Despite the ease of entry, operating under an Anjouan license still means following clear rules. Operators need to implement anti-money laundering and responsible gaming measures in line with the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Act. Regular compliance reporting, record-keeping, and appointing a local compliance officer are mandatory. Marketing must avoid targetting underage players or any market where gambling is illegal without proper authorization.
Anjouan’s authorities have also streamlined compliance updates by supporting licensees with clear guidelines, making it far less daunting for new operators to get started. This collaborative regulatory approach is especially helpful if you’re new to gaming regulations.
The application process: how to get started
In short: the process is designed to be simple. You’ll need to:
- Register a local business entity in Anjouan.
- Prepare and submit your application with supporting KYC/AML documents for shareholders and directors.
- Pay the government application fee.
- Undergo due diligence and basic review by the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board.
- Receive your full license, often within a few weeks.
You can obtain Anjouan license by working with a local adviser or a global consultancy that specializes in online iGaming compliance. This keeps the process as efficient and smooth as possible, giving you expert guidance right from the start.
Key points to remember
- Lowest setup and renewal costs among all online gambling jurisdictions.
- Zero gaming tax on gross gaming revenue.
- Quick processing (as little as three to four weeks).
- Comprehensive multi-vertical coverage: one license for casino, sports, poker, lottery, and more.
- Straightforward compliance: Practical obligations for AML/KYC, not heavy bureaucracy.
- Flexible for crypto and innovative tech businesses.
Is Anjouan right for your business?
If you value cost-efficiency, speed, and operational flexibility—especially as a newcomer or a business focused on rapid growth—Anjouan could be the perfect launching pad. While it might not yet have the long-established pedigree of Curacao or Malta, its practical advantages are hard to beat for anyone looking to get licensed and live as soon as possible. For many, the best route is to start with Anjouan and, as the business grows, consider layering on additional licenses for specific regulated markets.
If you’re ready to take your iGaming idea global or want to expand into new markets without breaking the bank, the Anjouan gambling license is absolutely worth exploring.
