Why speed matters: Launching faster with Anjouan licensing

In this article, iGaming industry consultant Ron Mendelson, Fast Offshore, explains why Anjouan is the ideal choice for those seeking to launch quickly in the online gaming market.

In the iGaming sector, time is more than just money; it's the difference between seizing market opportunities and watching competitors move ahead. For startups and entrepreneurs eager to enter the online gambling arena, the ability to launch quickly can make or break a venture. 

That's where the Anjouan Gaming License shines. Recently modernized and streamlined by local authorities, this lesser-known but increasingly popular option is poised to become a top choice for online gaming licensing in 2026 and beyond. If you're looking to get your platform live and generate revenue without unnecessary delays, Anjouan offers speed, accessibility, and efficiency.

At Fast Offshore, we've helped countless startups navigate this process, and we're here to explain why prioritizing speed with Anjouan licensing could be your smartest move yet.

The need for speed in iGaming startups

The online gambling industry is booming, with global revenues projected to exceed $100 billion in the coming years. But for new entrants, the race to market is intense. Delays in licensing can tie up capital, stall development, and allow established players to dominate emerging trends like blockchain-based games or eSports betting.

Traditional jurisdictions like Malta, Curacao, or the UK often involve lengthy approval processes, sometimes stretching to six months or more, coupled with high fees and bureaucratic hurdles. This is where Anjouan stands out: its licensing timeline is among the shortest worldwide, often wrapping up in as little as a few business days once documents are submitted.

Why does speed matter so much? For startups, a faster launch means quicker access to players, faster product iteration, and earlier revenue streams to fuel growth. Imagine having your casino, sportsbook, or poker platform operational while others are still buried in paperwork.

Anjouan's single-license model covers everything from slots and live tables to lotto, bingo, provably fair games, and even crypto-integrated offerings. No need for multiple permits or add-ons, just one efficient license that lets you hit the ground running.

Key benefits: Accelerating your launch

The Anjouan Gaming License isn't just fast; it's designed with startups in mind, blending speed with cost-effectiveness and simplicity. 

• Lightning-fast processing times: Unlike jurisdictions where applications can languish for months, Anjouan's streamlined process minimizes wait times. Provided your documents are complete and certified, approval can come in under three weeks. This is ideal for entrepreneurs with tight deadlines, allowing you to secure funding, integrate software providers, and start marketing campaigns without prolonged uncertainty. At Fast Offshore, we guide clients through document preparation to ensure no hiccups, turning what could be a months-long ordeal into a swift success.

• Affordable entry point: Speed doesn't come at a premium here. Setup costs are competitive, making Anjouan accessible for startups or those testing concepts. Ongoing maintenance fees are low, with annual renewals that won't strain your budget. Compare this to the hefty upfront fees in places like the Isle of Man or Malta, and it's clear why Anjouan enables faster profitability. No fortune spent on applications means more resources for player acquisition and platform enhancements.

• Hassle-free application: Bureaucracy can kill momentum, but Anjouan's process is refreshingly straightforward. While requirements exist, such as police clearance certificates, CVs, and proof of domain ownership, the paperwork is manageable. There's no endless red tape or multiple rounds of revisions. This ease lets you focus on building your business rather than navigating legal mazes. For first-timers, it's a low-stress entry, allowing experimentation without overwhelming commitments.

• Comprehensive coverage in one license: Speed extends to scalability. With a single license covering all iGaming activities, including casino games, sports betting, poker, eSports, and more, you can launch a diverse portfolio from day one. Want to add blockchain games later? No additional applications needed. This flexibility accelerates diversification, helping startups adapt to market demands without restarting the licensing clock.

• Zero gaming tax advantage: Launching faster also means optimizing finances from the start. Anjouan's 0% tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR) is a game-changer, far lower than the 5-20% rates in other jurisdictions. This fiscal incentive lets you reinvest profits into growth, marketing, or tech upgrades, accelerating your path to sustainability.

Meeting the requirements without delays

To capitalize on Anjouan's speed, preparation is key. The requirements are reasonable and focused on ensuring operators are fit and proper. Fast Offshore's onboarding process mirrors this, verifying your identity, intentions, and funding sources to align with Anjouan authorities' expectations.

Key documents for each officer, shareholder, director, or beneficial owner include:

• Certified copy of a valid passport (photo and signature pages)

• Recent utility bill

• Police clearance certificate (no criminal record)

• CV or resume

• Original banker's reference (relationship over 2 years)

• Original professional reference from an accountant or lawyer (relationship over 2 years)

• Details of content, including agreements, RNG testing certificates, and RTP (if applicable)

• Proof of domain ownership

• Copies of terms & conditions, including policies on underage gaming, responsible gaming, and player KYC

All must be in English, dated within 90 days, with certified translations if needed. By partnering with Fast Offshore, we handle compilation and submission, minimizing delays and ensuring everything is spot-on.

Cost considerations: Speed on a budget

Costs vary based on your setup, but Anjouan remains budget-friendly. Fast Offshore offers tailored packages that consider your goals, timeline, and finances. We provide transparency: no hidden fees, and we can bundle services like offshore company formation, bank account setup, and payment provider negotiations.

This holistic approach accelerates your launch while keeping expenses in check. For startups, this means entering the market without depleting reserves, positioning you for rapid ROI.

Ongoing maintenance: Sustaining momentum

Speed doesn't end at launch. Anjouan's low-maintenance requirements, such as annual reports, compliance checks, and renewals, keep things moving smoothly. Fast Offshore’s maintenance packages handle these for a fixed, competitive price, freeing you to focus on expansion. Whether adding payment options, changing directors, or scaling services, we ensure seamless continuity.

Why Anjouan is the ultimate fast-track for startups

Traditional licenses can stifle innovation due to their slow pace. Still, Anjouan enables rapid testing and iteration, making it ideal for validating ideas, building a user base, and pivoting without financial strain. Once established, you can transition to other jurisdictions if needed, and Fast Offshore can assist with that, too.

In conclusion, speed matters because it translates into competitive advantage, reduced risk, and faster growth in iGaming. The Anjouan Gaming License delivers this through quick approvals, low costs, and comprehensive coverage, while maintaining legality, security, and international recognition.

Ready to launch faster? With over 27 years of experience, Fast Offshore is your partner in Anjouan licensing. Contact us today to discuss your vision, get a custom quote, and accelerate your journey to success. Let’s make your iGaming dreams a reality - swiftly and efficiently.