Alderney iGaming Licence

Alderney is a self-governing British Crown dependency that operates independently from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and is not bound by EU gambling legislation. The Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC), established in May 2000, is an independent and non-political authority responsible for regulating eGambling on behalf of the States of Alderney. The AGCC is renowned for its high regulatory standards, commitment to player protection, and technical neutrality.

With extensive regulations, reasonable licensing fees, and a business-friendly environment that includes no gaming duties, corporate taxes, or VAT, Alderney has positioned itself as an attractive jurisdiction for iGaming operators seeking international recognition for integrity and fairness.

Types of Licenses and Certificates The AGCC offers different types of licenses and certificates for businesses looking to operate within its jurisdiction:

• Category 1 Licence – For B2C operators handling player registration, verification, and fund management.
• Category 2 Licence – For B2B software providers managing gaming operations and services.
• Core Services Associate Certificate – For foreign-based companies providing core services.
• Category 1 Associate Certificate – Equivalent to a Category 1 Licence but for foreign-based companies.
• Category 2 Associate Certificate – Equivalent to a Category 2 Licence but for foreign-based companies.
• Hosting Certificate – For entities hosting gaming equipment.
• Temporary eGambling Licence – For operators already licensed in another jurisdiction, allowing them to operate for a limited period.
• Key Individual Certificate – Required for key executives involved in gaming operations.

Licenses are granted to companies based in Alderney, while Associate Certificates are issued to foreign-based entities. Both provide the same operational abilities, with the main distinction being the jurisdiction of incorporation.

Temporary eGambling Licence The AGCC offers a Temporary Licence for operators already licensed in another jurisdiction, allowing them to conduct gambling activities for up to 29 consecutive days or 59 days intermittently within six months. If the operator exceeds this timeframe, they must apply for a full eGambling Licence within 42 days.

Advantages of an AGCC Licence

• Cost-Effective: No VAT, corporate taxes, or gaming duties.
• Risk-Based Regulation: Compliance requirements tailored to the operator’s specific business model.
• Reputation: Recognized as one of the most stringent and reliable regulatory bodies in the iGaming industry.
• Player Trust: Due to strict regulations, players have high confidence in AGCC-licensed operators.
• Simple Licensing Structure: One license covers all types of gambling activities.
• Drawback: While advantageous, obtaining an AGCC licence can be costly.

Requirements for Applying

• Only a company registered in Alderney can obtain a Category 1 or Category 2 Licence.
• Appointment of Responsible Persons, such as an Executive Director and an Anti-Money Laundering Officer, to report compliance matters to the AGCC.
• An initial investigation deposit of £10,000 and a £17,500 licence fee for the first year.
• Licensees must notify the AGCC before commencing operations.
• Online casinos must have all games licensed and comply with responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion options and time-out limits.

For foreign-based companies seeking an Associate Certificate (Category 1 B2C), a resident representative in the Bailiwick of Guernsey is required.

Temporary Licence Requirements

• Available only to offshore companies with an existing licence in another jurisdiction.
• Valid for 29 consecutive days or 59 intermittent days within six months.
• Licensees must notify the AGCC within one hour of activation and termination of the licence.
• Licence fee: £10,000.

Application Process

The licensing process takes a minimum of four weeks and consists of six phases:

1. Application Submission: Submit necessary documents and pay the investigation deposit (£10,000, or £5,000 for a Temporary Licence).
2. Regulatory Investigation: AGCC assesses the applicant’s character, business reputation, financial standing, ownership, and funding sources. Temporary Licence applicants present their business plan and corporate structure.
3. Regulatory Meeting: Applicants meet with the Director of Regulatory Operations to discuss their business model, associates, and key individuals.
4. Licence Decision: Upon successful review, the AGCC grants the licence after payment of the full fee. Temporary licences are approved or denied based on the application’s merit.
5. Equipment Testing: Gaming systems undergo compliance testing before operation. Temporary licence holders receive their licence upon final payment.
6. Business Operation: Once approved, the business can commence operations.

Licence Fees:

Licence fees vary depending on the type of licence and the Net Gaming Yield (NGY):

• Category 1 Licence: Introductory fee of £17,500, plus £35,000 per year for NGY up to £500,000. The maximum fee for all activities is £400,000.
• Additional fees apply for other licence types.

For more details on fees, visit the AGCC website.

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