Casino Licensing Authorities Explained
A licence is the most important sign that an online casino is safe. Our guide to casino licensing authorities explains what each regulator does, how much protection it gives players and how to check a casino's licence yourself.
Casino Licences Compared
| Regulator | Player protection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UK Gambling Commission | Very strong | Required for Great Britain; strict bonus and slot rules |
| Malta Gaming Authority | Strong | Respected EU regulator |
| Gibraltar | Strong | Selective; established operators |
| Alderney | Strong | Small, selective Channel Islands regulator |
| Kahnawake | Moderate | Long-standing; common for Canadian players |
| Curaçao | Moderate, improving | Reformed licensing regime |
| Anjouan | Limited | Popular with new and crypto casinos |
| Costa Rica | None | Company registration, not a gambling licence |
| Social casino | Not applicable | Virtual coins; not real-money gambling |
How to Check a Casino Licence
- Find the licence number and company name in the casino's footer.
- Search the regulator's official public register.
- Check that the licence is active and covers the casino's website.
- Make sure the licence covers your country.
Casinos without a verifiable licence end up on our blacklist.
FAQ
Which casino licence is the most trustworthy?
The UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority are among the most trusted, followed by Gibraltar and Alderney.
Is a Curaçao licence safe?
It is a real licence and the regime has been reformed, but it offers less protection than the UKGC or MGA.
How do I know if a casino is licensed?
Look for the licence number in the footer and verify it on the regulator's official website.