You’ve been lied to about gaming licenses

In this article, iGaming industry consultant Ron Mendelson, Fast Offshore, looks into the benefits of obtaining an Anjouan gaming license, and why it is considered the 'rising star' of gaming jurisdictions.

Malta? Curacao? The truth is—you’re overpaying and under-covered. Here’s the jurisdiction that’s changing everything…

Do you think Malta or Curacao are your only options for iGaming licenses? Think again. The industry has fed you myths about high costs and complex processes, leaving you overpaying for licenses that don’t consistently deliver comprehensive coverage. But there’s a game-changer in town: Anjouan.

With a streamlined process, unbeatable affordability, and a single license covering all iGaming activities, Anjouan is redefining the licensing landscape. Backed by crypto-friendly policies and global recognition, it’s the jurisdiction that’s changing the face of the iGaming sector.

The hidden costs of Malta and Curacao licenses

We all know that Malta is an expensive jurisdiction for obtaining a license, and that Curacao is no longer as cost-effective as it once was. However, it is not just the application cost that you need to consider. Both jurisdictions levy different forms of tax on revenue derived from iGaming, meaning you need to ensure this is all paid, while taking a slice of your profits. In addition, stringent compliance standards mean you spend more on audits and reports, staying in line with the standards, and all the additional fees that accompany them. 

While in Anjouan, there are also several rules, regulations, and requirements; the approach is a little more hands-off, significantly reducing your compliance bill. In addition, depending on what you offer, to whom, and where, you may also incur additional fees, whereas in Anjouan, it is a one-license-fits-all approach.

Anjouan: The rising star in gaming jurisdictions

Anjouan has had an iGaming licensing framework in place for many years, but it has never enjoyed much uptake or prestige. Then, in 2023, the authorities overhauled the process, streamlining applications, raising standards, and ensuring it could compete with other names on the international stage. 

The results speak for themselves. In two years, Anjouan approved 825 licenses, which support over 2017 live gaming websites around the world. Anjouan has quickly become one of the leading and most accessible licenses on the market, offering a significant step up for entry-level and mid-level operators seeking a reliable and legitimate jurisdiction.

How Anjouan saves you money without sacrificing coverage

The Anjouan has the lowest application and renewal fees on the market as of 2025. It also does not require that operators pay any kind of tax or VAT on the revenue they earn. In addition, the streamlined setup and ongoing maintenance requirements mean that costs for administration, paperwork, and other matters are relatively low when compared to Malta and even Curacao. 

This means less money is needed to go live, and more revenue can be saved for investment back into the business or for profit. For both startups and established brands, the Anjouan license offers the best chance of financial success with the minimum investment required. For the money you spend, you receive a license that allows you to work in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe, all lucrative and growing regions that offer plenty of room for expansion.

Comparing jurisdictions: Malta, Curacao, and Anjouan

It is difficult to do a direct comparison of Malta, Curacao, and Anjouan because they are all different and targeted at different audiences. Malta is considered a Tier-1 jurisdiction and comes with high application costs, stringent requirements, and expensive renewals. Curacao, following its recent regulatory overhaul, is now a mid-tier jurisdiction; however, it has relatively high application and renewal costs, as well as tax obligations and more stringent requirements. This has made it a less appealing choice for many operators that would have opted for it under the previous regime. 

Anjouan is not a Tier-1 license, but it does offer a high level of coverage, access to banks and payment institutions, credibility, and reliability for players, operators, and third parties, as well as a great degree of flexibility. In Malta, it is not as straightforward as getting just one license for all your needs, and there are many additional costs and requirements. In Curacao, a degree of uncertainty surrounding the new changes has also deterred many previous and potential operators. 

As for Anjouan, it is the lowest cost and quickest license on the market, is accepted by banks and payment providers, and allows you to offer a full portfolio of gambling products, including even blockchain and crypto, and other emerging technology-based offerings.

Streamlined processes: Why Anjouan stands out

The Anjouan iGaming license, when processed by Fast Offshore, boasts one of the fastest and most streamlined processes in the industry, often completed in just a few days. Unlike jurisdictions with lengthy approval processes, Anjouan’s efficient system minimizes bureaucracy, requiring only essential documentation, such as business plans and KYC compliance. Fast Offshore’s expertise ensures seamless navigation, handling company incorporation, document preparation, and regulatory coordination. 

Real-world benefits of choosing Anjouan for your business

Aside from its low costs and quick approval process, Anjouan excels in various other areas. A single license covers all iGaming activities, including casinos, sports betting, poker, and more, offering flexibility without the need for multiple permits. Anjouan’s crypto-friendly regulations support modern payment methods, broadening audience reach and increasing player trust. Meanwhile, the robust regulatory framework ensures compliance with anti-money laundering and fair play standards, enhancing credibility and player trust. For businesses seeking affordability, speed, and operational versatility, Anjouan is a strategic choice to thrive in the competitive iGaming industry.

What the future holds for gaming licenses with Anjouan

Anjouan’s iGaming license is poised to shape the future of the gaming industry, offering a streamlined, cost-effective solution for operators. As global regulations tighten, Anjouan’s efficient licensing process, often completed in days with Fast Offshore’s support, will attract startups and established firms alike. Its affordability positions it as a market leader, and its crypto-friendly policies align with the rise of blockchain-based gaming and NFTs. 

Going forward, the authorities have been clear that there are no limits. In a recent public statement, they said that collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect have turned an under-the-radar jurisdiction into a trusted licensing hub. They stated that looking ahead, they commit to enhancing oversight through data-driven supervision, expanding support so that licensees can scale confidently, and elevating standards to ensure that player protection remains at the heart of it all. This means that license holders are in safe hands and can expect more great service and opportunities, all within a responsible and supportive legal and jurisdictional framework.

As demand for flexible, globally recognized licenses grows, Anjouan is likely to expand its regulatory framework, enhancing transparency while maintaining ease of access. By striking a balance between affordability and credibility, Anjouan will remain a top choice, driving competition and empowering developers to thrive in an evolving, tech-driven gaming landscape. To find out more about the Anjouan license or to start the process, just contact a member of Fast Offshore today!