Gibraltar Gambling Licence Explained

Gibraltar is home to some of the world's best-known online gambling companies. Its licensing regime is known for being selective and strict. Here is what a Gibraltar licence means for players.

About Gibraltar Gambling Regulation

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, has been a centre for online gambling since the late 1990s. Licences are issued by the Gibraltar Licensing Authority, and the Gambling Commissioner oversees regulation. The jurisdiction is selective: it typically licenses established operators with a real presence on the Rock rather than large numbers of small start-ups.

What a Gibraltar Licence Means

• Established operators – licensees are usually large, well-capitalised companies.
• Fair gaming and anti-money-laundering rules monitored by the regulator.
• Responsible gambling requirements for licensed operators.
• UK access – Gibraltar operators serving British players also need a UKGC licence.

Gibraltar-licensed brands often hold additional licences, such as from the UKGC or MGA, depending on the markets they serve.

How to Check a Casino's Licence

1. Scroll to the casino's footer and find the licence number and the name of the company that holds it.
2. Open the regulator's official website and search its public register for that number or company.
3. Make sure the licence is active and that the casino's domain is listed under it.
4. Be wary of logos that link nowhere or to pages that are not on the regulator's own website.

Why Gibraltar Is a Major Gambling Hub

• Stable regulation with experienced regulators.
• Proximity to Europe and the UK and an English-speaking legal system.
• A deep talent pool of gambling professionals.
• Selective licensing that favours established businesses.

What Gibraltar Regulation Covers

For British players, the UKGC licence held by Gibraltar-based operators is what determines your protections in Great Britain.