Gambling license in Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis is one of the most favorable countries for the legalization of online gambling, including casino, poker, roulette, and sports betting.
Gofaizen & Sherle offers professional assistance in processing a Gambling license in Saint Kitts and Nevis. We provide full support, from preparing documents to fulfilling all legal requirements, so you can start your business successfully in the shortest possible time.
Gambling, such as casinos, poker, horse racing, and sports betting, is completely legal in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The Betting and Gaming Control Act 2021 ensured the legalization of this sector and established the Saint Christopher and Nevis Gaming Board to oversee operations and monitor compliance.
Businesses operating in Saint Kitts and Nevis can obtain a specialized gambling license that allows them to offer online gambling services. The process of obtaining a license involves compliance requirements, such as submitting documents and following established procedures. While foreign operators are given favorable conditions to operate, locals face strict restrictions on gaming.
With a clear regulatory framework and competitive tax policies, St. Kitts and Nevis has become a key destination for international gambling operators. The Gaming Board enforces fair play rules, protects participants, and supports the development of the industry, ensuring that the region is attractive to investors and tourists alike.
Advantages of Saint Kitts and Nevis gambling license
- Saint Kitts and Nevis provides a universal gaming license that allows for all types of online gambling, including casino, roulette, poker, bingo, and more. This universality simplifies the process of obtaining authorizations for internet gaming operators.
- Companies can have unlimited authorized capital, which creates additional opportunities for growth and attracting investors.
- The tax regime in St. Kitts and Nevis is attractive for entrepreneurs due to the territorial system, which excludes taxation of income received outside the country. There are also no capital gains, inheritance, or estate taxes.
- The jurisdiction offers technical solutions including private cloud servers and services for managing online casinos. This allows operators to focus on business development while minimizing technical difficulties.
- Access to international financial services and transaction management assistance make the region attractive to large operators.
- The island’s location and favorable climate make the country popular with operators and customers alike, increasing its tourism and economic potential.
- The St. Christopher and Nevis Gaming Board ensures transparent regulation, participant protection, and compliance, which contributes to the development of a stable and safe gaming market.
Disadvantages of Saint Kitts and Nevis gambling license
Saint Kitts and Nevis is known for its simplified administrative procedures in issuing betting licenses, making it the preferred option for international operators. However, despite these conveniences, there are significant disadvantages that should be carefully considered before starting operations in this jurisdiction:
- St. Kitts and Nevis’ gambling industry is primarily geared towards foreign customers, as locals are legally prohibited from participating. This dependence on global markets exposes operators to fluctuations in international demand and economic downturns, increasing the vulnerability of the business.
- Running an online casino requires operators to meet strict criteria, such as maintaining financial stability and access to specialized resources such as private cloud servers, secure banking solutions, and international transaction support. These conditions can increase operating costs and require significant investment, posing challenges for smaller companies.
- The limited local labor force in St. Kitts and Nevis makes it difficult to find qualified personnel to run gaming operations. As a result, companies often resort to hiring expatriates, resulting in increased recruitment costs and logistical problems.
- Failure to comply with regulations, such as registering all employees or providing accurate information, can result in significant fines (up to $50,000) or license suspension. Operating without a license can face up to 2 years in jail.
With these considerations in mind, companies should carefully assess potential risks and prepare adequately to ensure stable operations in this jurisdiction.
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Types of Saint Kitts and Nevis Gaming Licenses
There are several types of gaming licenses in Saint Kitts and Nevis, including licenses for casinos, racetracks, slot machines, and lotteries.
However, only one license is required to organize and conduct online gambling – the Betting and Gaming License. It covers all types of gambling conducted over the Internet, including casinos, sports betting, poker, and other virtual entertainment. This type of license allows operators to legally offer their services to players all over the world, except for some restrictions imposed by law, such as providing services to residents in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
The holder of a Gambling license in Saint Kitts and Nevis is entitled to:
- Offer services to players through telecommunication networks;
- Operate web-based online gambling platforms, applications, and services;
- Connect participants from all over the world (within the legal framework of the respective countries).
An Internet gaming license is valid for one year from the date of issuance. To renew, you must submit an application, pay the license fee, and provide updated business details.
Liability for the absence of a license:
- Conducting gambling without a valid license is considered a serious offense.
- Individuals are liable for a fine of up to $50,000 or imprisonment for up to two years.
- Legal entities face an increased fine of up to $150,000 for violating the law.
Requirements for obtaining a Saint Kitts and Nevis gambling license
- Register a company in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
- Apply for a license, including the exact type of gambling business.
- Attach a business plan outlining sources of funding, company structure, and expected financial performance.
- Provide certified copies of the company’s statutory documents, including the certificate of incorporation.
- Obtain approval of all key personnel, including verification of their qualifications, trustworthiness, and impeccable reputation.
- Pay the required registration and annual license fee.
- Open a bank account with a licensed bank within St. Kitts and Nevis.
- Ensure certification of gaming equipment through independent testing laboratories.
- Establish and comply with a system of internal controls, including anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing measures.
- Provide audited financial statements annually.
- Allow only foreign users, excluding citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis, to access gaming activities.
- Consult with government agencies in the development and publication of promotional materials.
- Comply with requirements to keep daily records of all financial transactions and make them available for inspection by regulators.
- Ensure that gaming activities are consistent with the public interest and regulations set by the state.
Cost for Saint Kitts and Nevis gaming license
Obtaining a Gambling license in Saint Kitts and Nevis involves a clear and structured financial framework. Companies wishing to open a licensed gambling establishment must meet the following payment requirements:
Application Fee:
$2,500 – payable upon application for a license. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the review.
Annual License Fee:
$25,000 – paid annually to maintain the validity of the license.
Registration fee per employee:
$500 – for registration of key gaming staff (e.g. platform administrators, technicians, etc.).
Penalties for violations:
Up to $50,000 for individuals.
Up to $150,000 for legal entities.
Additional costs may also be incurred.
Costs of platform certification by independent laboratories.
Consultation and support for paperwork.
Costs to verify regulatory compliance.
The cost of the license makes St. Kitts and Nevis a competitive jurisdiction for online operators, providing the opportunity to operate in an international legal environment.
How to Apply for new gambling license in Saint Kitts and Nevis
The process of obtaining a gaming license involves several steps:
Company Registration:
Step 1
Establishing a company in Saint Kitts and Nevis is a prerequisite. The company must be registered under local law and its structure must comply with the requirements of the Gambling Commission.
Gather the necessary documents:
Step 2
Prepare a complete set of documents including:
- Certificate of incorporation of the company.
- Articles of incorporation.
- Business plan with a description of the company’s activities.
- Information about the owners, directors, and key employees.
- Financial statements or proof of capital.
- Police reports for all key persons.
Filing an application:
Step 3
An application is submitted to the Gambling Commission indicating the type of license. It includes all the documents collected, as well as a customized application form that meets the requirements.
Payment of Fees:
Step 4
At this step, fees must be paid:
- A one-time application fee of $2,500.
- License fee, valid for one year – $25,000. Additional costs may include consultant and auditor fees.
Commission Review:
Step 5
The Commission conducts a thorough review of the data provided:
- Funding sources.
- Compliance of the applicant with statutory requirements.
- Reliability of the online gambling platform.
- Competence and trustworthiness of the company’s employees.
Equipment verification:
Step 6
All gaming platforms and equipment used are independently verified for compliance with standards. Certification confirms that the system protects user data and ensures the integrity of the games.
Obtain a license
Step 7
Upon successful completion of all inspections, a Saint Kitts and Nevis gambling license is issued for one year. The licensee gets the right to conduct activities related to online gambling provided that all legal requirements are met.
License Renewal:
Step 8
When the license expires, you must apply for renewal, re-check, and pay the annual license fee. You must also submit updated company information, including financial statements and a statement of current operations.
Explore more information about the Saint Kitts and Nevis Gambling License
Gambling Lawyers in Saint Kitts and Nevis
Position
Senior Associate, Business Development Manager (FX & iGaming)Phone
+372 5477 0344
Position
Senior Associate, Head of Sales (FX and iGaming)Phone
+372 5300 1858How to Establish a New Company in Saint Kitts and Nevis
To obtain a Saint Kitts and Nevis betting license, the key step is to incorporate a company. This process provides a legal basis for future operations, including obtaining the necessary licenses. Below is a step-by-step guide to setting up a company that complies with local legal requirements and allows you to start operating without any irregularities.
Determine the type of company
Choose a business form that matches your goals. The most popular options are:
- International Business Company (IBC) – ideal for offshore activities such as asset management, international trade, or investment.
- Private Limited Liability Company (LLC) – recommended for local or international business activities, including service or asset management.
Select a company name
Make sure the name is unique and not used by other registered companies. Also contrary to the laws of St. Kitts and Nevis, e.g., not misleading, does not contain prohibited words.
Appoint directors and shareholders
- Minimum one director, who may be a natural or legal person of any nationality.
- A minimum of one shareholder, who may be an individual or an organization.
- Establish the shareholdings of the shareholders if there is more than one.
Register an agent and rent a physical office
The agent serves as the official point of contact to interact with local authorities and receive legal documentation and notices. The office is used to store corporate documents and correspondence.
File documents with the Registrar of Companies
Submit an application for registration including:
- A completed application form.
- Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company.
- Copies of proof of identity of directors and shareholders (passport and proof of address e.g. utility bills).
- Confirmation of the registered office address of the company.
Pay the registration fees
Open a bank account
To open an account you will need:
- Certificate of incorporation of the company.
- Minutes of the board of directors with a resolution to open an account.
- Copies of the identity cards of the directors and authorized persons.
- A document confirming the company’s address.
Obtain a Betting and Gaming License in St. Kitts and Nevis
Register with the tax authorities
Start operating
Once the company has been registered, a bank account opened and all necessary permits have been obtained, the company is ready to start operations. Make sure all obligations, including annual renewals and reports, are met on time.
Corporate Taxation and License Tax
St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for online gambling companies due to its favorable tax system. Companies with an Internet gambling license can count on significant tax benefits if their activities are internationally oriented.
The main features of the tax system:
- Companies that do not operate in St. Kitts and Nevis are exempt from paying corporate tax.
- This means that income earned from outside the country is not taxed.
- Instead of corporate tax, companies pay a fixed annual fee, the amount of which is determined by the type of license and the nature of the business.
- Dividend, interest, and royalty payments to non-residents are exempt from taxation. The exception is the 15% withholding tax on payments received from sources in St. Kitts and Nevis.
- For resident companies (if managed from within the country) the official corporate tax rate is 33%, but it can be reduced to 1% or a flat license fee can be paid.
FAQ about obtaining a gaming license Saint Kitts and Nevis
Is gambling legal in Saint Kitts and Nevis?
Gambling is legal and regulated in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Licensing is carried out by the Gambling Control Acts.
Are gambling activities licensed in Saint Kitts and Nevis?
Yes, gambling activities are licensed through the Gambling Commission. Licenses are issued for a variety of activities including internet gaming.
How does Saint Kitts and Nevis gambling license work?
The license grants the right to conduct gambling activities, regulating the company’s activities by the law. It is valid for one year and is subject to annual renewal.
Is getting a license a long process?
The process of obtaining a license takes between 30 and 90 days, including the submission of documents, verification of the application, and payment of registration fees.
What is the process of getting a gambling license in Saint Kitts and Nevis?
The process includes registering a company, submitting an application form, submitting articles of association, and directors’ details, paying fees, and undergoing an inspection.
Can a license be obtained without a bank account?
No, a bank account is a prerequisite. The bank requires company documents and a resolution of the board of directors to open an account.
Can a foreigner start a business in Saint Kitts and Nevis?
Yes, foreigners can register a company and obtain a gaming license. There are no requirements for local directors or shareholders.
Can gambling companies in Saint Kitts and Nevis be owned by non-residents?
Yes, non-residents can own gambling companies. Shareholders and directors can be of any nationality.
How much does it cost to set up a company in Saint Kitts and Nevis?
Company registration costs from $1,750, including government fees and the services of a registered agent.
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