Cyprus Gambling License
Last Update: 18.03.2026
The Cyprus gaming license is one of the most attractive in Europe and the global gambling industry. Strict security standards, transparency, and high regulatory standards make it the preferred choice for online gambling operators. Gofaizen & Sherle provides a full range of services for registering a gambling company in Cyprus. Our company is ready to assist in obtaining licenses, provide tax advice, develop effective legal strategies, and ensure high-quality reporting.
Cyprus is an island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is located south of Turkey, west of Syria and Lebanon, and east of Greece. The state is a presidential republic. Cyprus has a multinational population, and its cultural heritage is a combination of Greek and Turkish cultural influences. The official languages are Greek, English, and Turkish.
Thanks to its membership in the European Union, Cyprus uses the euro as the island’s main currency. The agricultural sector of the economy is gradually giving way to the service sector. The economic situation is stable, regulation is balanced, and per capita income is high. These factors attract international investment, including in the gambling sector. Despite the relative flexibility of its legal system compared to other European countries, Cyprus strictly complies with all relevant EU directives, adhering to high standards and ensuring safety in the gambling industry.
The Cypriot banking system is an extensive and diverse infrastructure that plays an important role in international financial activities. It consists of local and foreign banks and is regulated by the Central Bank of Cyprus in accordance with European Union standards. Cypriot banks provide a wide range of banking services, including financing, investment, and traditional banking operations. Following the 2013 financial crisis, regulatory reforms were introduced to strengthen the banking system, making it more resilient and transparent. This is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs who value the confidentiality, security, and stability provided by European Union financial institutions.
Advantages of obtaining a Cyprus Gambling License
Obtaining a gambling license in this jurisdiction allows online gambling operators to enjoy many advantages:
Cyprus is a member of the EU.
Cyprus does not issue a pan-European iGaming license; however, as an EU member, it provides operators with easier access to European payment systems, favorable double taxation treaties, and opportunities to establish cross-border holding structures. Cypriot companies are often used as B2B platforms, development centers, or marketing hubs in international licensing schemes.
Favorable taxation
Cyprus offers competitive tax rates, making it an attractive destination for gambling operators. Favorable tax conditions can have a positive impact on the profitability of businesses in this industry.
Regulatory standards
A gambling license in Cyprus is issued by the National Gambling Authority, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards. This promotes a safe and transparent gambling environment, increasing player confidence.
Stable legal framework
Cyprus provides a stable legal framework for online gambling. Operators can benefit from clear guidelines, which reduce uncertainties in legal compliance and facilitate the smooth running of the business.
Relatively simple licensing process
By maintaining high standards, regulators aim to simplify the application and approval process, allowing operators to start operating more quickly.
Advanced technological infrastructure
Cyprus has a modern technological infrastructure, including a stable internet connection. This ensures that online gambling platforms can operate uninterrupted and provide a positive user experience.
Focus on consumer protection
The Cyprus regulator emphasizes the importance of player protection measures, including responsible gaming initiatives and dispute resolution mechanisms, and monitors their implementation.
Gambling Legislation in Cyprus
The growing popularity of sports betting among Cyprus residents has led to the introduction of regulations for both online and offline betting. In 2012, Cyprus passed the Betting Law, which legalized sports betting both online and through traditional channels. In 2019, significant changes were made to this law, creating a modern legal framework that complies with EU standards. At present, this law is the key piece of legislation regulating online gaming in Cyprus.
The Betting Law established the National Betting Authority (NBA), which is responsible for processing applications, issuing licenses, conducting audits, and supervising potential bookmakers and online betting operators.
Under current legislation, engaging in online casino gambling in Cyprus is considered illegal and punishable. That said, Cyprus prosecutes both operators and players. The only form of online gambling allowed in Cyprus is internet sports betting while betting on horse racing is not permitted. Cyprus’ infrastructure provides various services for online gambling operators and suppliers, including high-capacity private server racks, customized cloud services, dedicated dedicated servers, and other hosting options.
Regulatory Authorities
The iGaming sector in Cyprus is regulated by the National Betting Authority (NBA), an independent government agency established under the Betting Act. The NBA is the only authority authorized to issue licenses to bookmakers. It has the right to revoke or suspend licenses if bookmakers violate betting laws or AML/CFT regulations.
As part of its responsibilities, the NBA monitors gambling companies and services for compliance with the Cyprus government standards and regulations. Regular compliance checks are conducted to ensure that license conditions are being met. Licensees are required to maintain a complete audit log for each player who deposits with the operator, including information on financial transactions and individual bets. Gaming systems, including server software logs, must be available for inspection by third-party auditors. Game rules, results, and payouts must be available to the National Betting Authority for five years.
The NBA oversees bookmakers and gambling, ensuring that they comply with government standards and regulations. The regulator conducts regular checks to ensure that bookmakers comply with the terms of their licenses.
Legal framework for online gambling
In addition to the Betting Law, the following regulations govern online gambling:
- Regulations for the Protection of Players, Minors, and Pathological Gamblers (2019) – which establishes measures to protect the interests of players, prevent minors from accessing gambling, and assist those suffering from pathological gambling addiction;
- Advertising Standards Code (CA.02.2021) – which sets out commission requirements for advertising and promotion of gambling aimed at ensuring ethics and compliance with standards in this area;
- The Rates (Fees Payable) Regulations 2019 (R.A.A.84.2019) – regulates matters relating to fees payable under rates, setting out relevant rules and regulations in this area.
Also between 2007 and 2018, Cyprus enacted several laws aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. These laws are designed to make the financial market more transparent and secure, as well as to help detect and suppress criminal activity.
As a member of the European Union, Cyprus is required to comply with Article 56 TFEU (EU directives on gambling). According to these directives, operators from other EU countries have the right to apply for online gambling licenses and accept players from all member states. Moreover, if a country does not grant such licenses, foreign operators should still be allowed to serve its citizens without obtaining a local license.
In 2025, Cyprus continues to update and improve its legislation in order to remain competitive and comply with EU standards. In the future, we can expect:
- The introduction of licenses for online casinos.
- tighter controls using AI-based tools;
- stricter enforcement of responsible gaming requirements.
Operators focused on long-term stability and growth need to keep a close eye on these changes and adapt to them promptly.
Gaming business licensing
As already mentioned, in Cyprus in 2025, gaming business licensing is entirely concentrated in the hands of the National Betting Authority, which is the only body authorized to issue licenses to betting companies. Obtaining a license allows you to officially take bets and operate in a regulated market.
In order to obtain an NBA license, a company must be registered in Cyprus, with betting as its main activity. A foreign company can apply for a license through its Cypriot branch, but in both cases, the authorized capital must be at least €500,000. The application requires detailed information about managers, beneficiaries, and significant shareholders, as well as internal procedures for financial control, money laundering prevention, and compliance with security standards.
The license is issued for one or two years and can be renewed with the approval of the NBA.
NBA-licensed bookmakers are required to:
- keep a detailed log for each player who has made a deposit, which must contain information about the player’s financial transactions and bets;
- provide access to their gaming systems, including server software logs, for verification by third-party auditors;
- store information about game rules, results, and payouts for five years.
If the platform includes a casino, online slots, or poker, it will not be possible to obtain a Cypriot license, so operators have to consider alternative jurisdictions such as Curacao or Malta, while maintaining their operational or financial structures in Cyprus.
Requirements for obtaining a gambling license in Cyprus
To obtain an online gambling license in Cyprus, a company must meet a number of organizational, financial, and technical requirements set by the National Betting Authority (NBA). These conditions are designed to ensure transparency, reliability, and compliance with EU standards in the field of financial and digital services. These requirements include:
Company registration in Cyprus
The applicant must establish a private limited company registered in Cyprus, whose main activity is gambling. If the company is not registered in Cyprus, it is necessary to either open a branch or enter into a partnership agreement with a Cypriot company.
Presence of a local representative
Operators providing services to Cypriot players must be residents of Cyprus. In the case of foreign companies, a local director who is a resident of Cyprus must be appointed to liaise with the competent authorities and conclude contracts on behalf of the company.
Applicant’s reputation
The company’s managers and owners must have an impeccable business reputation.
Transparency of activities
When applying, it is necessary to provide a detailed business plan, a technical description of the platform’s operation, and measures to ensure data security and transaction reliability.
Bank account in Cyprus
It is necessary to open an account with a local bank to conduct all operations with client funds, including deposits and withdrawals. Licensed online gambling operators may only process player payments through payment systems approved by the NBA.
Financial stability
The company must confirm that it has the minimum authorized capital and provide a bank guarantee to cover any potential liabilities to customers and the regulator.
The minimum share capital for an applicant company is €500,000 (approximately $581,000), which applies to both Cypriot and foreign companies.
The bank guarantee from a Cypriot or other EU-based bank must amount to €550,000 (approximately US$640,000) and remain valid for at least six months after the license is issued. This guarantee ensures the payment of player winnings, taxes, and contributions to the NBA.
Compliance with standards
The company is required to implement internal procedures to combat money laundering (AML) and terrorist financing (CFT), as well as to comply with consumer protection and responsible conduct regulations. It is also important to monitor compliance with the principles of protecting minors and controlling the content and placement of advertising materials.
Technical requirements
The server containing the company’s key data must be physically located in Cyprus. It must be connected to the main server and back up all necessary data in real time in accordance with NBA rules. The technical specifications and procedures for using this equipment must be clearly defined and may be revised by the NBA as necessary.
The process of applying for a gambling license in Cyprus
Obtaining a gambling license in Cyprus is a strictly regulated procedure designed to ensure transparency and protect player interests. Licensing is supervised by the National Betting Authority, and only Cypriot companies whose shares are traded on the Cyprus Stock Exchange can become licensees. The licensing process includes the following steps:
Step 1: Company registration.
Before applying, you must register a legal entity in Cyprus and ensure that it complies with the regulator’s requirements. The company must be public, with shares admitted to trading on the Cyprus Stock Exchange. It is also important to appoint a local authorized representative and prepare internal policies to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.
Step 2: Submission of an application to the National Betting Authority.
The application is submitted to the NBA, specifying the type of license — class A (land-based betting shops) or class B (online betting). If the company plans to operate in both areas, two separate applications are submitted, which are considered independently.
The application must include contact details in Cyprus, information about beneficiaries, directors, and shareholders, financial statements, and a description of the terms and conditions of service provision to players.
Step 3: Verification and review of documents.
The National Betting Authority conducts a comprehensive check of the applicant, including an analysis of capital sources, criminal records, business reputation, and corporate structure transparency. Additional documents or clarifications may be requested if necessary. The application may be rejected if the applicant is associated with financial crimes, gambling violations, or is under 25 years of age (for individuals).
Step 4: Obtaining a license and starting operations.
After a positive decision, the company receives a license to operate a betting business. The license is non-transferable, valid for one or two years, and requires full compliance with all regulatory conditions. The NBA reserves the right to amend the terms of the license or revoke it in case of non-compliance with the law, after notifying the licensee in advance.
To renew the license, an updated set of documents and confirmation of compliance with all regulatory requirements must be submitted 3 months before the license expires. The procedure is similar to the initial licensing, but is faster if there are no violations.
Documents required to obtain a Cypriot gambling license
To obtain a Cypriot gambling license, the applicant must prepare a package of documents that includes:
- Incorporation and registration documents — the company’s articles of association, confirmation of registration of the legal entity, and a postal address in Cyprus for official correspondence;
- owner and management documents — copies of identity cards, information on the place of residence and shareholdings of all shareholders, directors, and ultimate beneficiaries, as well as certificates of no criminal record and police certificates;
- current financial data confirming the company’s solvency, as well as information about its business reputation and participation in other commercial structures;
- operational documents — the applicant must describe the terms of service provision to players, the betting structure, and the platform’s operating mechanisms so that the regulator can assess the transparency and legality of the gaming activity;
- Compliance and internal control policies — detailed AML and KYC procedures, internal regulations on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing, and a description of the internal control system must be provided.
For a complete list of documents required for business licensing, please contact the lawyers at Gofaizen & Sherle.
Find more information about Cyprus Gambling License
How to Start a Gambling Company in Cyprus
Registering a new company in Cyprus with the Registrar of Companies (RCOR) is a straightforward process that takes only 4-5 business days.
Setting up a gambling company in Cyprus consists of the following steps:
- Selection of the organizational and legal structure.
The most common form of gambling business is a private limited liability company (Ltd). Non-resident foreigners can register such a company under Chapter 113 of the Cyprus Companies Law (2012).
The number of shareholders can vary from 1 to 50 and personal presence in Cyprus is not required for registration. A private limited company must have a minimum of one director and a secretary.
- Verification and registration of the name of a joint stock company with the Registrar of Companies (RCOR).
- Preparation of documents.
The required list of documents for registration includes:
- a completed and signed application for registration from the founders;
- Articles of Association and business plan of the company;
- list of shareholders and directors;
- a document confirming the consent of the persons appointed as directors to fulfill their duties;
- certified copies of personal documents of the founders and directors;
- documents confirming the address of the company, such as a lease agreement or proof of ownership of an office in Cyprus;
- documents confirming approval of the company address, including a letter from the building owner or consent from the tenant to use the company address.
If the founders wish the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association to be written in a language other than Greek (e.g. English), an official translation certified by a sworn translator in Cyprus is required.
- Open an account with a Cyprus bank. Ensure compliance with all financial requirements set by the NBA.
- Deposit the minimum authorized capital required by the NBA.
- Pay the registration fees.
The fee for standard registration is €165 (approximately $177). Accelerated registration will require an additional 100 euros (approximately $107).
Upon completion of the incorporation process, you should receive corporate certificates from RCOR, which confirm the company’s registration and legal capacity.
Types of Gambling Licenses in Cyprus
Under the Betting Law 2012, there are two main types of gambling licenses in Cyprus, each covering different areas of the gambling industry:
- Class A bookmaker’s license – regulates land-based betting on sporting events. This license provides the ability to accept bets on all sports, excluding horse racing and internet activities.
- Class B bookmaker license – regulates online betting and gambling, excluding slot machines, online casinos, and lotteries.
The NBA maintains a list of all gambling licensee companies in Cyprus. This list, together with information from license applications, is regularly published by the NBA on its official website.
Cost of a Cyprus Gambling License
The cost of a Class A or B bookmaker’s license in Cyprus is determined by its term and is paid upon application or renewal of the permit.
The fee for a one-year license is €30,000 (approximately $35,000), and for a two-year license, it is €45,000 ($52,300). These amounts are the same for Class A and B licenses and cover the administrative costs of review and supervision by the Cyprus National Betting Authority.
If the applicant acts through an official representative, a separate fee of €2,000 per year or €3,000 for two years ($2,300 or $3,500) is payable.
If the application is rejected, the regulator will refund 75% of the amount paid, which partially compensates the company for the costs of obtaining the license.
Possible complications and restrictions of a gambling license in Cyprus
Although Cyprus is considered an attractive jurisdiction for iGaming, the local license has several significant restrictions and requirements:
Limited list of permitted games
Online casinos, poker, and slot machines are not covered by the license, which significantly narrows the opportunities for operators.
High entry threshold
The licensing process requires significant financial guarantees, authorized capital, and regular reporting, which complicates market entry for small companies.
Strict regulation of financial flows
Control over the movement of funds is extremely tight, cash payments are prohibited in many cases, and audits are conducted regularly.
Regulatory risks
Gambling legislation in this jurisdiction is subject to change, and its interpretation may vary, creating uncertainty for operators.
Mandatory investment in responsible gaming programs
The regulator requires ongoing investment in safe gaming and player protection programs, which increases operating costs but remains a prerequisite for maintaining a license.
Obligations for operating a gaming business in Cyprus
Licensed operators in Cyprus are required to strictly comply with laws and regulations aimed at protecting players and ensuring business transparency. Key obligations include compliance with AML and KYC rules in accordance with EU directives, protection of personal data in accordance with GDPR standards, and implementation of responsible gaming policies, including self-exclusion tools for players. Operators are also required to conduct regular audits and reporting, including financial reports and activity logs.
Bookmakers have additional obligations under the responsible gaming principles established by the NBA. They are prohibited from offering casino games and must provide players with opportunities to control their own participation: limits on losses, deposits, and playing time.
Operators’ advertising must be socially responsible and not targeted at minors, and persons under the age of majority are prohibited from accessing betting and gambling.
Penalties for non-compliance
Licensed operators who do not comply with the requirements may face various consequences: fines and penalties, suspension or revocation of their license, as well as domain blocking and restricted access to banking services.
In particular, the NBA has the right to block an operator’s website, impose a fine of up to €200,000 ($233,000) for licensees and up to €300,000 ($350,000) for unlicensed companies, or revoke the license entirely. In particularly serious cases, violators may face criminal charges: up to three years in prison for licensed operators and up to five years for unlicensed companies.
A breach of responsible gaming requirements may result in a fine of up to €1 million (approximately $1.2 million) or criminal prosecution. Such strictness ensures compliance with the rules and protects players, maintaining the stability and transparency of the gambling market in Cyprus.
Taxation of Gambling Companies in Cyprus
According to Article 71 of the Betting Law 2012, gaming companies in Cyprus are liable to pay a combined gaming tax of 13% on their net income. This tax includes:
- 10% in favor of the State.
- 3% contribution to the National Betting Authority, of which 2% is distributed to the Cyprus Sports Federations and 1% is allocated to gambling addiction programs.
Although the gambling tax rate in Cyprus may not seem the most favorable compared to other jurisdictions, other tax rates present significant competition. Many companies choose Cyprus as their base because of its low corporate tax rate, which is only 12.5% of their net profits. In addition, there is no tax on income from dividends and interest paid to non-residents of Cyprus, as well as royalties paid to non-residents of Cyprus for rights not used in Cyprus.
Cyprus has also concluded more than 65 international double taxation treaties, which improves cross-border investments and reduces the tax burden for international entrepreneurs whose companies are considered tax residents of Cyprus.
If you are interested in receiving detailed individual advice on obtaining a gambling license in Cyprus, do not hesitate to contact our lawyers.
Conclusion
The regulatory framework for iGaming in Cyprus is transparent, clearly structured, and fully compliant with EU standards, creating a solid foundation for legal and regulated betting activities. Despite existing restrictions on online casino licensing, the market offers ample opportunities for betting platforms, B2B providers, affiliate networks, and support services.
Companies that understand and comply with NBA principles can operate safely and effectively, taking advantage of Cyprus’ benefits, from tax breaks to a stable banking system. Our lawyers are always ready to provide professional support at every stage of licensing a gaming business in Cyprus, ensuring full compliance with all regulatory requirements.
FAQ about Cyprus Gaming License
How do I get a gambling license in Cyprus?
To obtain a gambling license in this jurisdiction, you need to establish a company, determine the appropriate type of license, prepare the necessary documents, complete an application with the National Betting Authority (NBA), and pay the appropriate fees. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive the appropriate license.
How long does it take to get a gambling license in Cyprus?
The process of applying for a gambling license in Cyprus usually takes 2 to 3 months.
How much does a gaming license cost in Cyprus?
A one-year license for a Class A or Class B betting shop in Cyprus costs €30,000 (approximately $32,339) and a two-year license costs €45,000 (approximately $48,508).
Are there any challenges associated with securing a Cyprus gambling license?
One of the main challenges for those seeking a license is the strict regulations that must be complied with. Additional challenges may arise in the area of financial obligations such as license fees, operating costs, and more. It is also important to consider changes in legislation that both new and existing licensees must adapt to.
Do Cyprus gambling companies undergo auditing processes?
Yes, gambling companies in Cyprus undergo audit processes. These audits may include financial audits, operational audits, and compliance audits to ensure that companies comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. Audits help to maintain the integrity of gambling operations and protect the interests of both operators and players.
Is gambling regulated in Cyprus?
Yes, under the Betting Law 2012, gambling in Cyprus is regulated by the National Betting Authority (NBA). The NBA regulates various forms of gambling activities including sports betting, online betting, and other gaming services. It issues licenses to operators and monitors their activities to ensure compliance with established rules and standards. Regulation also includes measures to prevent money laundering, protect consumer rights, and promote responsible gambling practices.
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