Gambling License in UK (UKGG)

Launch your gambling business with one of the most reputable jurisdictions in the world. The UK offers strong international credibility, access to a mature market, and a well-defined regulatory framework. While the licensing process can be complex and requires local legal insight, it ensures high compliance standards.

Adam Smith provides expert support throughout the process, helping you secure a UK gambling license in approximately 4 months.

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Strong Regulatory Reputation

The UK Gambling Commission is one of the most respected regulators globally, giving your business immediate credibility and trust with players and partners.

Predictable Licensing Process

Clear legal procedures and established requirements help minimize uncertainty and delays. With expert guidance, licensing can be completed in as little as 4–6 months.

Comprehensive Legal Support

Adam Smith offers tailored assistance at every stage — from application to compliance — ensuring a smooth and efficient path to market entry.

UK Gambling License – 2025 Overview

The United Kingdom is an independent and well-established jurisdiction with full authority over its gambling regulation, company law, and taxation policies. Its transparent legal framework and long-standing regulatory tradition make it a preferred destination for both startups and established gambling operators seeking credibility and market access. The UK offers a clear, structured licensing process and a strong reputation that appeals to investors and global partners.

The current regulatory regime was introduced under the Gambling Act 2005. Licensing and oversight are managed by the UK Gambling Commission, an independent authority known for its strict compliance standards. As of recent data, over 2,000 operators hold active UK gambling licenses. Holding a UK license is widely regarded as a mark of trust and professionalism, strengthening a company’s position in both local and international markets.

Why Choose the United Kingdom for Your Gambling License?

The United Kingdom is internationally renowned for its robust, transparent and innovation friendly approach to licensing gambling businesses. As Europe’s biggest gambling market the UK offers great commercial opportunities, advanced legal framework and stable regulatory environment to attract and support industry leaders.

The UK ranks highly for ease of doing business, it’s a trusted destination for global businesses. According to the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index the country ranked 8th out of 190 countries, considering factors important for doing business including ease of entity registration, access to credit, protection of minority investors and simple procedures for dealing with tax and legal requirements.

UK licensed operations benefit from one of the clearest and most stable regulatory frameworks in the world provided by the UK Gambling Commission. This commission provides strict yet fair compliance guidelines to prevent criminal activities, consumer protection and a safe and responsible gambling environment.

In addition to simplified legislation gambling businesses in the UK enjoy preferential tax rates from 3% to 21% based on net profits (stakes minus winnings paid out). And with over 130 international agreements to avoid double taxation setting up your business here is financially efficient, transparent and globally competitive.

Europe’s Biggest Gambling Market

Unbeatable opportunities for new and existing gambling businesses.

Over 130 Tax Treaties

Protection against double taxation, global competitiveness and investment.

Global Reputation

Boost your company’s international reputation.

Non-UK Residents

Licensing options not limited to UK nationals, attracting international ownership and investment.

Types of gambling licenses in the United Kingdom (UKGC)

In the UK, an operator may need several licenses for different types of gambling activities . We will focus on licenses for sports betting and online casinos (online activities require UKGC remote licenses).

Betting (bookmaker) license

Allows you to take bets on live sporting events over the internet. The UKGC classifies such licenses as Remote General Betting Standard (Real Events), covering online bookmakers. A separate virtual events license is required to accept bets on virtual events as well.

Pool Betting License (Pool Betting)

Is required to run a totalizator (pari-passu betting) where all bets are pooled and winnings are distributed to the winners. Remote Pool Betting Licence covers online horse racing sweepstakes, soccer pools, etc.

Betting Exchange License

Required for a platform where players bet with each other and the operator acts as an intermediary with no betting liability. The UKGC defines such activity as Remote Betting Intermediary, commonly known as a betting exchange.

Online Casino License

Allows you to offer casino games such as poker, roulette, blackjack, slots, etc. over the internet. Each license is separate. For example, if you plan to launch a site with betting and casino games, you need to get two licenses – one for betting and one for casino games. Also, key employees need to have Personal Management Licenses. The advantage of the UK system is its flexibility – the licenses cover a wide range of gambling services, so you can legally cover different gambling verticals.

Get Your UK Gambling License Now

If you want to get your UK Gambling License in 2025, act now. Our team handles all formalities, provides tailored advice for your business and ensures full compliance so you can start operating in the UK’s gambling industry. Contact us today and turn your gambling dream into reality!

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UKGC requirements for the applicant and operational standards

The regulator sets out a set of requirements for companies applying for a UK gambling license. UKGC assesses the applicant according to the “three branches” principle: financial stability, honesty and competence, willingness to comply with social responsibility. Below is a full list of key requirements:

Legal entity and structure

The applicant must be a registered company (in the UK or other jurisdiction acceptable to UKGC). A diagram of the ownership structure down to the ultimate beneficiaries must be provided. The company must have transparently identified directors and officers; if there are trusts or corporate structures among the shareholders, disclose their beneficiaries.

Good business reputation

All owners and officers are thoroughly checked to ensure they meet the “fit and proper” test. No criminal record and proven reliability of key persons is required. Criminal records (including foreign, certified English translation) and credit reports on beneficiaries. UKGC may refuse if any related person has reputational or legal problems.

Qualifications and experience

The company must demonstrate that its team has the necessary skills to run the gambling business. The application package includes executive resumes, a description of their industry experience and supporting educational or professional credentials. Having compliance, AML and responsible gaming management expertise will be an advantage.

Financial resources

The regulator requires proof that the applicant has sufficient funds to launch and sustain the project. Financial statements (balance sheet, P&L), bank statements, information on sources of funding and investors are provided. Profit and loss forecasts for 3 years ahead showing the business model are also prepared. UKGC will check this data to ensure the business is viable and will be able to pay its obligations to players (e.g. winnings).

Business Plan

A detailed business plan describing the product strategy, target market, marketing, operational processes and planned game types is required. The plan must take into account UK legal requirements and measures to comply with license conditions. Having a solid plan shows the operator understands its objectives and how to achieve them.

Policies and Procedures (LCCP)

The applicant must have a set of internal policies that comply with the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP). These include: AML and CTF policies, KYC procedures for customer screening, responsible gaming policies (self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, identification of problem players), fair play and gaming integrity rules, user agreement and betting rules. These documents must be ready and compliant with UKGC standards at the application stage.

Personnel and Management Licences

Key people of the operator (e.g. CEO, CFO, CMO, Head of Compliance, etc.) must have personal licences from the UKGC – Personal Management Licence (PML). Alternatively, some individuals may need to submit a detailed Annex A form with their personal information. The company must appoint an MLRO (Money Laundering Reporting Officer) under AML policy. The company must also designate a person responsible for social responsibility. All appointed individuals must meet the UKGC’s “fit and proper” test.

IT System and Platform

For online operators, having a tested and certified IT platform is crucial. Software (gaming platform, RNG, games) must comply with the UKGC’s Remote Technical Standards. RNG certification and games testing by accredited labs is usually required. The system architecture must have data protection, redundancy, operation logging and ability to generate reports for the regulator. If using third-party software, ensure the provider has a Gambling Software Licence from the UKGC.

Data and Transaction Security

The platform must have high level of protection for players’ personal and financial data (e.g. SSL encryption, modern cybersecurity standards). Compliance with GDPR for data processing is required. The operator must have fraud detection systems and DDoS protection to ensure uninterrupted service.

Segregation of Customer Funds

In line with player protection principles, the operator must hold customer deposits. A common practice is to keep client funds in segregated bank accounts, separate from company operating accounts. Alternatively, other safeguards may be used (insurance, trust funds), with the UKGC being informed of the chosen method. The level of customer fund protection (Basic, Medium, High) must be displayed on the company’s website as required by the regulator.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML)

The licence applicant must comply with UK AML/CTF regulations. A robust KYC process must be in place for customer identification, including verification of identity and address. Sanctions list and PEP screening must be implemented. Internal procedures must support transaction monitoring and reporting of suspicious activity (SARs) to the UK’s financial intelligence unit. The UKGC expects the operator to demonstrate a clear understanding of AML obligations, including appropriate staff training.

Responsible Gambling and Player Protection

Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to Responsible Gambling principles. The operator’s website and services must provide tools for responsible play: self-exclusion options, deposit/betting limits, timeouts, session reminders, etc. The operator must integrate with the GAMSTOP national self-exclusion system (mandatory for all online operators in the UK). The responsible gambling policy must prevent underage gambling – strict age verification measures must be in place before allowing access to betting. Information about gambling risks and support services (such as GamCare) must be displayed on the site.

Local Presence and Taxation

Although the UKGC licenses foreign companies, an operator active on the UK market will typically become a UK tax resident. Registration for gambling tax obligations is required: Remote Gaming Duty (21% of GGY) applies to online casinos, General Betting Duty (15% of gross betting profits) applies to betting, etc. The company must also pay UKGC fees (application and annual). The company should either have a UK presence or, at a minimum, appoint a local representative for regulatory communication. A UK office and bank account are advantageous when assessing the license application.

Compliance with Technical Standards and Reporting

After the licence is granted, the operator must comply with all UKGC licensing conditions and technical standards. This includes timely submission of regulatory reports (financial data, incidents, player complaints, etc.), audits, and notifying the UKGC of any changes in the company (including changes in structure or key individuals, which require prior approval).

UKGC license process (Roadmap)

Applying for a gambling license in the UK is a step-by-step process that usually takes about 16 weeks, if the application is complete and correct. Below is the roadmap - the main stages to get a license

Company Registration

The applicant must operate through a registered legal entity. Usually a company (Private Limited Company) is set up in the UK or in another jurisdiction allowed by the UKGC. At this stage the company structure is formed and directors and officers are appointed.

Document preparation

The most time consuming stage. It is necessary to collect an extensive package of documents and information about the company: ownership structure (ownership diagram), statutory documents (Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles), information about top managers and beneficiaries, confirmation of their identity and reputation (passport, criminal records, credit reports, etc.). Financial documents are prepared: bank statements for 6 months and confirmation of the availability of funds to finance the project. Development of a detailed business plan and financial projections for 3 years as well as internal policies and procedures (AML/KYC, in-game responsibilities, game rules, user terms and conditions) in accordance with UKGC and LCCP requirements are mandatory. For online operators, technical documents are added: description of the software used, IT system diagram, remote access policies. If the company already has gambling licenses in other countries, copies of these licenses are attached.

Submitting an application to the UKGC

The application is made via the UKGC online service with a non-refundable application fee. As of March 2025, the UKGC basic application fee is £370, however for remote casinos and bookmakers additional fees apply depending on projected turnover (GGY). The application is accompanied by all prepared documents. In parallel, applications for personal licenses for key managers (PML) are submitted or Annex A forms are filled in for each responsible person. Once the application is submitted, formal review begins.

Due Diligence

The Gambling Commission conducts a thorough review of the information provided. The regulator evaluates the financial condition of the company, transparency of the structure and origin of funds, business reputation of beneficiaries and managers (criminal record, experience in the industry). Particular attention is paid to the readiness to comply with the rules of responsible gaming and anti-money laundering. The UKGC may request additional information and clarifications during the course of the inspection. The quality and completeness of the application largely determines the speed of the review – an incomplete package of documents or a complex ownership structure may increase the time.

Decision and license issuance

If the regulator successfully passes the review, the regulator approves the application. The applicant must pay the first annual license fee within 30 days. Once the fee is paid, the UKGC issues an Operating License to start operations. The license is issued indefinitely, but requires annual payment of the fee and strict compliance with the licensing conditions. If a license is refused, the Commission gives reasons and the applicant can remedy the deficiencies or appeal.

Once licensed, the operator must comply with all UKGC requirements on an ongoing basis. The licensee reports to the regulator, submits annual regulatory reports, keeps all internal policies up to date and undergoes compliance audits. Failure to comply may result in fines or license revocation.

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Take the first step towards transforming your business prospects in the UK's lucrative gambling market. Our licensing specialists ensure a smooth and fully compliant process tailored to your needs. Save time, mitigate risk, and accelerate your path to success.

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Clear and Transparent Pricing for Your UK Gambling License

Entering the UK’s gambling market is a lucrative opportunity with huge growth potential. To launch your operations smoothly you need to know the licensing costs and related services. We offer full transparency so you can navigate the financial aspects with confidence. Our services are structured in packages designed to match your business needs and simplify getting your UK gambling license.

Basic License Setup

^£7 500 16 Weeks
- Full preparation of documentation required for the Gambling Commission
- Legal compliance check
- AML/CTF Policy Formation
- Representation & handling of all administrative procedures until issuance of the license
- Dedicated customer support throughout the process
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Advanced Licensing and Corporate Structuring

^£14 000 18 Weeks
- All-inclusive gambling license application and follow-up
- Company registration in the United Kingdom
- Development of a comprehensive business plan and risk assessments
- Customized AML/KYC policies and internal procedures
- Professional management training on compliance and gambling regulations
- Ongoing support and regulatory updates for 12 months
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Premium Turnkey Solution

^£25 000 18 Weeks
- Priority application processing and expedited document handling
- Complete UK gambling and company license handling
- Provision of premises address for regulatory documentation serving purposes
- Preparation and submission of audits, financial projections, and internal documentation
- AML/KYC compliance systems and integration support
- In-depth consulting, training, and unlimited regulatory and administrative assistance (18 months)
- International taxation advice and strategy incorporating double taxation treaties
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UKGC Licensing Fees for Remote Licences

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GGY Range	Remote casino operating licence	Remote betting standard licence
Less than £550,000	£3,520	£3,962
£550,000 – < £2 million	£3,520	£10,074
£2 million – < £5.5 million	£3,520	£11,652
£5.5 million – < £15 million	£7,742	£38,501
£15 million – < £55 million	£7,742	£54,274
£55 million – < £110 million	£10,232	£87,451
£110 million – < £220 million	£17,576	£159,789
£220 million – < £550 million	£21,115	£326,730
£550 million – < £1 billion	£30,933	£575,270
£1 billion +	£30,933	£730,270 + £100k for each extra £500m GGY

Note: Prices are approximate for a startup project with one licence. Final pricing will be determined on a case by case basis based on the scope of work and business size. Adam Smith offers transparent pricing — “turnkey” means no hidden fees and a full service package.

Our Team of Experts

The value of your application is in the hands of the experts who know the gambling licensing inside out. Our team consists of licensing specialists, compliance experts, qualified solicitors, certified CPAs and regulatory advisors. Each member of our team has years of industry experience and up-to-date knowledge base to ensure your application is handled correctly and accurately from start to finish. They are passionate about each client’s unique needs and build long-term business relationships and deliver results. (Team details to be filled)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is gambling regulated in the UK?

Yes, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) rigorously regulates all gambling activities to ensure fairness, responsibility, and integrity in the industry.

What documents do I need to get the license?

You’ll need corporate documents, financial records, business plans, internal operating policies, and background checks for key individuals.

Can foreign companies apply for a UK Gambling License?

Yes, the UK Gambling Commission accepts applications from companies and individuals outside the UK, provided they meet all licensing and regulatory criteria.

How much tax will my gambling business pay in the UK?

Taxes depend on gambling activities, typically ranging 3%-15% (General Betting Duty), 15% (Pool Betting Duty), or 21% (Remote Gaming Duty).

Is there a minimum investment needed to start gambling business in the UK?

No specific minimum investment is mandated by UKGC. However, your documentation must convincingly demonstrate that your business has sufficient financial resources.

Do I need a business address in the UK to apply?

Yes, you must provide a UK-based address where official communications can be legally served.

How long does it take to obtain a UK Gambling License?

Typically, application processing takes around 4-6 months, dependent on the complexity and completeness of your application.

Should I disclose previous offenses when applying for the license?

Yes, full disclosure of all relevant prior offenses is mandatory to ensure transparency as required by UKGC regulations.

Are there international tax treaties applicable with the UK?

Yes, the UK has over 130 international agreements for avoidance of double taxation, benefiting international operators.

Can you assist by providing legal support throughout the licensing journey?

Absolutely. Our expert legal and compliance teams will guide you through every step of the licensing process and ongoing compliance requirements.

Apply for Your UK Gambling License Today

Ready to harness tangible opportunities in Europe's largest gambling market? Our experienced licensing professionals help streamline your license application process — swiftly, seamlessly, and successfully, preparing your gambling business for immediate growth.

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