Last Updated on January 11, 2023
Established in 1996, the Curacao Gaming Authority is one of the oldest online gambling regulators and license providers around. Aiming to oversee the conduct of all operators under its jurisdiction, the CGA ensures online casinos, bingo rooms and poker operators comply with the standards set out in its licensing laws while also enforcing strict anti-money laundering and responsible gambling policies.
Although not as highly respected as certification from the UKGC or the MGA, acquiring a Curacao gambling license at least ensures operators adhere to certain standards and safety measures, usually guaranteeing a fun and fair experience for players. On this page, we’ll take a look at some of the better Curacao casinos and go over the pros and cons of the Curacao gaming license in much greater detail.
Top Curacao Online Casinos In 2022
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* Only for new registrations and only for their first deposit
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£5,000
Welcome Package
* Only for new registrations and only for their first deposit
€3,000
Welcome Package
* Only for new registrations and only for their first deposit
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Welcome Package
* Only for new registrations and only for their first deposit
Bonus 50% up to:
€4,000 + 125 Free Spins
Welcome Package
* Only for new registrations and only for their first deposit
Bonus 750% up to:
€3,000
Welcome Package
* Only for new registrations and only for their first deposit
Why Is A Curacao License Good?
From an operator point of view, there are several very good reasons to apply for a Curacao eGaming license. For one, the Curacao license grants them access to a wide range of international markets as an overseas operator. This allows them to circumvent local restrictions and offer services to players in many countries where online gambling is either locally prohibited or heavily controlled by regulators.
Secondly, the application process for a Curacao betting license is also quick and relatively inexpensive, while for online casino companies that actually intend to headquarter their businesses on the Caribbean Island, there’s zero VAT and corporate tax on profits. English is also widely spoken in Curacao, which, given its prevalence as the main language in the gaming industry, is an added bonus.
Non Gamstop and Curacao Licenses
Of course, another advantage for both Curacao online casinos and the players that they service is that acquiring a Curacao license effectively enables them to circumvent the UK’s Gamstop restrictions. As these casino sites do not have to abide by UKGC rules but remain available to players that reside in the UK, there are fewer restrictions on bets and promos and self-excluded players are also welcome.
What To Check Before Listing A Curacao Operator
While obtaining a Curacao gaming license is usually a good indicator of an operator’s credibility, users are advised to still be vigilant before choosing to play at a Curacao casino online. In 2006, there was some controversy in the jurisdiction when reports emerged of several casinos using pirated NetEnt and Novomatic software, and it was never explained how this went undetected by local authorities.
Perhaps owing to the relatively easy nature of acquiring a Curaçao gambling license, some less reputable operators see it as a quick way to get their platform authorized. For this reason, players choosing to use Curacao gambling sites are advised to read our unbiased reviews for the best guidance, while also checking for important safety features such as the site’s RG and security policies.
Drawbacks Of The Curacao Gaming License
As mentioned above, being able to display a certificate from the Curacao Gaming Authority is perhaps not held in as high regard as boasting a license from the UKGC or MGA might be. Owing to the relatively cheap cost of acquiring a Curacao license and the streamlined approval process, there are occasionally a few bad apples that make it through undetected and pose a potential risk to customers.
While a lack of Gamstop regulations may seem like a win for players who find that their UK gambling is too heavily restricted, the fact remains that the service provides an important safety measure for those who are most at risk in terms of problem gambling. Offering services to self-restricted players is therefore somewhat questionable and Curacao may not be able to provide the protection they need.
Somewhat related to this is the complaints procedure in Curacao. While all players are technically able to contact the Curacao Gaming Authority if a dispute with a Curacao betting platform arises, more often than not the regulator sides with the casino. As such, customers may find themselves chasing a lost cause with the CGA, whereas they’d typically receive far fairer treatment with another regulator.
Curacao Casinos Frequently Asked Questions
The Curacao eGaming license is the certificate that is awarded to online casinos that have successfully applied for regulation through the Curacao Gaming Authority. It entitles operators to offer their services as an offshore casino site to customers in a wide variety of jurisdictions worldwide, while also providing some measure of their integrity and accountability.
For the most part, yes. Although not considered one of the stricter online gambling regulators around, the Curacao Gaming Authority does at least vet potential applicants based on their fairness, security and responsible gambling practices. While a few bad apples have gained CGA approval in the past, generally sites displaying a Curacao license can be trusted.
Yes, but you are advised to do so at your own discretion. As holding a Curacao betting license entitles operators to host players from the UK without them having to adhere to UKGC regulations, players who’ve previously self-excluded are not prevented from registering. Even without Gamstop, Curacao casinos are required to enforce to responsible gambling.
In many cases you will. The Curacao Gambling Authority has been one of the more progressive regulators when it comes to embracing cryptocurrencies. This means leading tokens such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash are widely accepted at Curacao casinos and is another reason why many operators turn to the CGA for their licensing.
For the most part, Curacao-licensed online casinos are both fair and transparent and safe to play at. If some of the stories about disreputable Curacao casinos have put you off, however, you can always check our unbiased reviews before signing up. It’s also a good idea to check any prospective site for its security certification and responsible gambling policy.
Gabe Harper has been working in the online casino business for a bit over a decade. He has worked on the backend of more established casinos, and has also watched scams come and go. While mostly an avid table game and poker player, Gabe is also known for his tips and bets whenever the Premier League rolls around.
