Anjouan Gaming License – A Comprehensive Guide On How To Get Anjouan License In 2026

The Anjouan gaming license is a low-cost offshore option for online gaming operators. It is issued on the autonomous island of Anjouan, part of the Union of the Comoros, for B2C and B2B activity. If you are planning a casino software development project, check market acceptance first: the license is not universal, and the Comoros government disputes the legitimacy of the Anjouan register.

• Anjouan Gaming lists €17,828 for license issuance and the same for annual renewal. Consultants quote as little as three weeks, but the regulator publishes no fixed timeline.
• Consultants report no gaming tax on revenue. The regulator lists B2C and B2B license types, with permitted activities set in each license’s conditions.
• Licensing is run by Anjouan Gaming, which operates under the Anjouan Offshore Financial Authority (AOFA). The Comoros government disputes the regime, and the license does not authorize services in regulated markets such as the UK.

Understanding the Anjouan Gaming License

The Anjouan gaming license is popular with online gaming operators because of its low fees and fast process. It is not internationally recognized in the way a UK or Malta license is: acceptance depends on the market.

Anjouan stands out with lower licensing fees and minimal taxation on gaming revenues, especially when compared to top gambling licenses such as Malta and the Isle of Man. Anjouan’s legal framework aims to ensure fair gaming practices and compliance with international standards.

Startups also look at the license for its flexibility. The application involves less bureaucracy and lower fees than many alternatives.

The license allows operators to run several forms of online gaming. The regulator lists online casinos, sports betting, poker and bingo, prediction markets, blockchain-based gaming platforms, and cryptocurrency-enabled gaming as permitted activities, with the specific activities set out in each license’s conditions.

What Is an Anjouan Online Gambling License?

The Anjouan online gambling license is an authorization granted to gambling service providers by the Anjouan gaming authority. This allows operators worldwide to conduct online gambling, covering various types of gaming activities such as casinos and sports betting under a single permit. The license applies under Anjouan law only.

History and Overview of Anjouan Gaming License

Anjouan, part of the Union of the Comoros, set up its offshore authority (AOFA) in the late 1990s, after the island claimed independence in 1997, as part of a strategy to attract offshore businesses. The gaming license is part of that offer, with simplified application steps and low fees.

Before becoming a thriving online gambling jurisdiction, Anjouan’s economy relied primarily on agriculture. The island was a renowned supplier for the perfume and culinary industries offering products like ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cinnamon. However, due to the unpredictable nature of agriculture, the government sought alternatives that could provide long-term financial stability to the region.

The licensing regime rests on the Computer Gaming Licensing Act of 2005, according to the licensing body.

Since May 2023, licenses have been issued through Anjouan Licensing Services (ALSI), which runs anjouangaming.com.

Key Functions and Powers of the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board

Anjouan Gaming is the licensing and supervisory body for internet gaming in Anjouan. It operates under the Anjouan Offshore Financial Authority (AOFA), with oversight from the Anjouan Gaming Board (sources also use the names Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board and Anjouan Gaming Authority). The ABGB’s role extends to monitoring gaming operations and enforcing gaming regulations to maintain the integrity of the industry. Some of the core responsibilities of this board are highlighted below:

• Receiving reports from gaming license holders
• Ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering regulations
• Implementing responsible gaming policies
• Protection of vulnerable groups such as minors and players prone to gambling addiction

Types of Anjouan Gambling Licenses

Anjouan Gaming issues two license types: a B2C Operator License for entities that run gaming platforms for players, and a B2B Service Provider License for suppliers of platform, software, or technical services to licensed operators. The regulator lists online casinos, sports betting, poker and bingo, prediction markets, blockchain-based gaming platforms, and cryptocurrency-enabled gaming as permitted activities, subject to each license’s conditions.

The comprehensive license is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. It offers flexibility for operators to engage in multiple gaming activities under a single permit, simplifying compliance and operational management. However, sublicensing is not permitted, ensuring direct accountability and compliance for licensees.

Benefits of the Anjouan Gambling License

• Reported absence of gaming taxes
• Single License for All Activities
• Quick Processing Times
• Competitive Licensing Fees

Tax Benefits

Licensing consultants report that Anjouan charges no gaming tax on revenue. The regulator’s published pages do not state a tax rate, so confirm this in writing. Corporate tax depends on where the operating company is based.

Single License for All Activities

One of the most attractive features of the Anjouan license is its ability to cover all types of online gambling activities under a single permit. This includes casinos, sports betting, and other gaming services. By simplifying compliance requirements, operators can focus on expanding their offerings and reaching a broader audience without the need to obtain multiple licenses for different activities. This comprehensive licensing system streamlines operations and reduces administrative overhead.

Quick Processing Times

Consultants quote about three weeks for a complete application. Anjouan Gaming publishes no fixed processing time: applications are reviewed in the order received, and timing depends on the completeness of documents and on due diligence.

The streamlined application process allows businesses to start operations swiftly. This efficiency is crucial for operators eager to enter the market and begin generating revenue without delays.

Competitive Licensing Fees

The licensing fees in Anjouan are highly competitive, making it an attractive option for startups and smaller operators with limited budgets. These affordable fees lower the entry barrier for new businesses and encourage innovation within the industry. This cost-effectiveness positions Anjouan as a favorable jurisdiction for companies seeking a cheaper alternative to other jurisdictions. Anjouan Gaming lists €17,828 for issuance and €17,828 for annual renewal for both B2C and B2B licenses, and €500 for each additional domain (fee schedule).

Licensing Requirements

Applicants trying to figure out how to secure a gaming license must work from the regulator’s list of four document sets. Corporate formation documents: certificates of incorporation, articles of association, shareholder registers, and the ownership chain to the ultimate beneficial owner. Personal documents for directors, beneficial owners, and key persons: government ID, proof of address, and declarations. Financial documents that may be requested: audited financial statements, bank references, and source of funds evidence. Application forms and declarations. Corporate documents must be certified copies.

Applicants must also undergo a fit and proper test to ensure the integrity of the licensee, including verification of the background and conduct of the ultimate beneficial owner and other stakeholders of the business.

Application and Timelines

Anjouan Gaming publishes no fixed processing time, and incomplete applications are not processed. Consultants quote about three weeks for a complete application. The regulator describes four stages: submission of documentation, review of applicant information, regulatory due diligence (corporate structure, key persons, source of funds, sanctions screening), and license issuance, with the license recorded in a public register.

Anjouan Gaming License Application Process Step-by-Step

For anyone trying to figure out how to start an online gambling website with an Anjouan Gaming license, you will find that the whole process is pretty straightforward. Before you begin, carry out an integrity check on key stakeholders to ensure they meet the standard set by the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board. You should also get all the necessary documents in order. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process from start to finish:

1. Legal Entity Registration

In Anjouan, a gaming license can only be obtained by a fully registered company recognized as a legal entity. Once the requirement has been met, the certificate of incorporation will be issued by the Registrar of International Business Companies.

2. Documentation

In preparation for the application process, you need to gather all the necessary documents that will be submitted as part of the gambling license application. This includes corporate paperwork for the company such as incorporation documents, company strategy documents (KYC, AML, and responsible gambling), and contracts with developers. Other corporate documents include proof of web domain ownership and RNG testing certificates.

In addition to the corporate documentation, you will also need to provide the personal records of all of the company’s stakeholders. This includes notarized copies of their passport, police certificates from their country of origin, recent utility bills, Curriculum Vitae (CV), bank reference letters, and so on. 

3. Pay Associated Fees

The next step is to apply for a gambling license which begins by paying all associated registration fees. These fees are part of the initial costs of obtaining the gaming license and are necessary to proceed with the application process. The payment ensures that the application is officially recognized and can be evaluated by the Anjouan authorities.

4. Assessment and Approval

Once the application is submitted, the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board conducts a comprehensive assessment of the financial stability and ethical integrity of the applicants. This evaluation process ensures that the business is capable of operating in a legal and compliant manner. If the application meets all the regulatory requirements, the license is approved and granted for an initial duration of one year.

5. Start Operations

After obtaining the license, the licensee is legally allowed to start operations. This step marks the beginning of the gaming business’s journey under the Anjouan gaming license. The license permits operators to engage in various forms of gambling activities, providing them with the opportunity to explore and expand their offerings in the online gaming market.

Costs and Taxes Overview

Anjouan Gaming lists €17,828 for license issuance and €17,828 for annual renewal, for both B2C and B2B licenses, plus €500 for each additional domain. Fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome and subject to periodic review. Consultants report no gaming tax on revenue, which the regulator’s published pages do not confirm.

Payment Solutions and Corporate Structure

Setting up a corporate structure in Anjouan involves registering an International Business Company (IBC). The legal company registration begins with the appointment of a local representative or registered agent who has been approved by the Anjouan Offshore Financial Authority.

Then you need to open a corporate bank account and transfer the authorized capital requirements. Operators may also need to set up additional payment accounts to facilitate transactions and manage their operations effectively.

Next, you can proceed to submit the necessary documents in line with the International Business Companies Act. Some of the required paperwork for this process includes the Articles of Association, a business description, a Memorandum of Association, as well as relevant financial records.

Jurisdictional Restrictions

An Anjouan license does not provide international coverage on its own. The regulator states that it is not a universal authorization to operate in every country, and that operators must comply with the laws of the markets where they operate. In Great Britain, a UK Gambling Commission license is required. The Comoros government disputes the legitimacy of the Anjouan register, so banks, payment providers, and partners may apply their own due diligence to the license. Check every target market and partner policy before you rely on it.

For platform vendors: since July 1, 2025, Anjouan requires B2B suppliers that work with Anjouan-licensed operators (software developers, platform providers, RNG suppliers, and game suppliers) to hold a Recognition Certificate or a full Anjouan B2B license, with a 90-day grace period. Providers already licensed in recognized jurisdictions can apply for the certificate.

Remote Gambling in Anjouan

Anjouan has become a popular option for online gaming startups because of its fast, low-cost process. Operators do not need a physical business location in Anjouan, but that does not change the licensing rules of the countries where their players live.

However, to keep the license, operators must maintain high standards of player protection and responsible gaming practices. For more details on iGaming development and how to start a casino app, check our dedicated guides.

Regulatory Framework and Compliance

Anjouan’s regulatory framework is designed to ensure that gaming operators adhere to stringent legal obligations and compliance requirements, fostering a secure and trustworthy gaming environment. Operators must comply with comprehensive anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, which are crucial in preventing financial crimes and ensuring the integrity of gaming operations. These AML measures require operators to implement robust systems for monitoring transactions and identifying suspicious activities, thereby safeguarding against illicit financial activities.

In addition to AML regulations, Anjouan places a strong emphasis on responsible gaming initiatives. Operators are required to establish policies that promote responsible gaming, protecting vulnerable players and minimizing the risks associated with gambling addiction. This includes implementing measures such as self-exclusion programs, setting betting limits, and providing resources for players seeking help with gambling-related issues.

Online gambling business operators must also adhere to strict data protection and privacy laws, ensuring the confidentiality and security of player information. Regular audits and compliance checks are conducted by the Anjouan Betting and Gaming Board to ensure that operators maintain high standards of operation and adhere to all regulatory requirements.

These obligations apply under the license conditions that Anjouan Gaming publishes. Standard conditions include using only approved operational domains, designating an Authority-approved alternative dispute resolution (ADR) provider that is listed in the player terms, notifying the Authority of material changes, and maintaining beneficial ownership records. Non-compliance can lead to suspension or revocation.

Ongoing Maintenance and Compliance

License holders in Anjouan have to renew their licenses annually and adhere to a set of ongoing compliance requirements. Operators must implement internal controls aligned with international practices, including anti-money laundering regulations and responsible gaming measures. Regular audits and risk assessments are mandatory to identify and address any operational vulnerabilities.

Anjouan license holders must also submit annual reports to the regulatory authority, including financial statements and compliance evidence. Quarterly updates on key performance indicators and business changes may also be required.

License renewal involves paying annual fees and submitting updated documentation, such as a police clearance certificate and proof of web domain ownership. Timely submission is essential to avoid operational disruptions.

Operators are encouraged to continuously improve and train their staff on regulatory developments and industry trends, maintaining compliance and fostering integrity.

Why Choose the Anjouan Gaming License?

The Anjouan license is a low-cost, fast option for operators whose target markets accept offshore licenses.

Its regulator publishes AML, responsible gaming, and due diligence requirements, and a public register of licenses. Weigh this against the 2026 dispute over the legitimacy of the regime and the limited acceptance of the license.

Do you want to find out more about other gambling licenses? Check out our articles on:

• Curacao gaming license
• Tobique gaming license
• Malta gaming license
• Isle of Man gambling license
• Kahnawake gaming license
• Alderney gambling license
• Gibraltar gaming licence
• UK gaming license

Key Considerations for License Applicants

Prospective licensees must ensure that both their servers and player databases are hosted in Anjouan to meet regulatory compliance. Additionally, applicants must be over 18 years old and have no relevant criminal history in the past three years. All submitted documents must be in English. If they are not, they should be accompanied by certified translations and dated within the last 90 days.

The application process may include comprehensive reviews and interviews to discuss business strategies. Applicants are also required to provide detailed descriptions of gaming content along with third-party testing certificates to demonstrate compliance.

Explore our detailed guide for more on how to start an online gambling business.

Conclusion

The Anjouan license combines low cost with a fast process, but its value depends on the markets you target. Timing depends on complete documents and due diligence.

Anjouan’s tax policies favor gaming companies by not imposing corporate taxes on their gross gaming revenue, enhancing profit margins for operators. The future also looks promising as Anjouan continues to adapt its regulatory framework to meet the evolving needs of the iGaming industry.

We build the software side, including KYC provider integrations and the player-facing flows that meet the operator’s regulatory obligations. Contact us to discuss your platform.