No license, no launch: that’s the real rule of iGaming. If you're planning to run a serious casino in 2025, getting legally set up is the first order of business. A great casino website and game selection mean nothing without the right license in place. It’s your passport to credibility, payment systems, and long-term success.

But let’s face it: digging through license fees, annual costs, legal paperwork, and hidden taxes isn’t what most entrepreneurs sign up for. And yet, before your casino software can go live, these milestones are wired into the system. That’s why understanding the gambling license cost upfront is paramount — not solely for compliance, but for budgeting, long-term growth, and market access.

Are you eyeing Europe, Latin America, or a global launch? In either case, this guide will help you take a closer look at the numbers, demystify the licensing process, and get closer to the big question: how much does it cost to get an online gaming license in 2025? At NuxGame, we help operators understand the full landscape and find the model that fits. Contact us today for quality iGaming legal services!

Why Licensing Still Comes First

Before the games, before the payment gateway, and even before your brand is fully built, licensing is what makes your operation real. It’s the approval stamp for banks, game providers, regulators, and, most importantly, players.

Getting a gambling license gives you the possibility to: 

  • Builds player trust.
  • Access respected casino game providers.
  • Plug into third-party tools like KYC and payment systems.
  • Reach wider markets.

But all licenses are not created equal, and neither are their price tags. So if you’ve ever Googled the cost of an online gambling license, it’s time to get real numbers based on real options.

Gaming License Classification (And Cost)

Before we discuss budgets, it’s important to understand the main types of gaming licenses available to operators in 2025. Each one comes with its own rules, markets, and payment expectations. Here are the top gambling jurisdictions worth considering this year:

  • Curacao Gambling License. One of the most accessible options. Fast setup, global-friendly, and ideal for first-time operators or crypto-based projects. Full license cost: $12,000 – $25,000 yearly (with setup and incorporation).
  • Malta Gaming License. Trusted in the EU and favored by large-scale operators. Comes with strict regulation, but also credibility. Excellent choice for responsible gambling. Online gambling license cost: $40,000 – $60,000 annually, plus setup fees.
  • Isle of Man Online Casino License. Respected by banks and payment providers worldwide. Known for strong regulation and high stability. Gaming license cost: $40,000+ with application, corporate, and control fees included.
  • Anjouan Gambling License. Gaining traction fast. Offers fast approval times and attractive global flexibility. Gambling license price: around $15,000 – $25,000 yearly, depending on services required.

These are your starting points within the gambling industry. Selecting the right type of license for you depends on your launch markets, tech stack, payment needs, and long-term ambitions. Some licenses open more doors; others keep the initial costs down. Either way, working with experts in gambling laws (NuxGame, for instance) helps you follow your business plan with a clear head and solid info.

What Goes Into the Total Cost

The number one mistake new operators make is thinking that the gaming license cost is just a flat fee. In reality, there are multiple components — some upfront, some recurring — that determine your budget. We’ve shared the details below:

Upfront Costs:

  • Application process fees.
  • Legal setup (company registration).
  • Technical audits.
  • First-year license fee.

Ongoing Costs:

  • Annual license renewal.
  • Corporate maintenance and tax filing.
  • Audits and software certifications.
  • Specific requirements regarding a local office (for certain jurisdictions).

Extras to Consider:

  • KYC and AML software integrations.
  • Domain fees (many regulators require a .com or specific TLD).
  • Bank account setup in approved jurisdictions.

What is the real price tag for operators who want to open an online casino? It usually lands somewhere between $15,000 and $100,000 and is determined by where you get licensed and how ambitious your setup is. Planning ahead means avoiding budget surprises. That’s why working with an experienced provider like NuxGame (who offers licensing and full turnkey casino software) gives you a better sense of direction.

Tips for Managing License Costs Smartly

Instead of rushing into the priciest license or trying to cut corners with unverified providers, smart operators know how to balance budget and long-term growth. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Start an online casino where it makes sense, not where it’s most famous. If you’re not targeting the EU immediately, licenses like Curacao or Anjouan may give you faster market access and lower fees.
  • Bundle license setup with online gambling platform support. Many tech partners offer licensing as part of their package. This cuts out the middlemen and saves time.
  • Plan for renewal before launch. Some operators forget that yearly fees hit hard when cash flow is still growing. Set aside a budget for year two early.
  • Check if your aggregator requires a specific license. Some casino aggregator platforms only work with certain license types. This affects your tech stack and future integrations.

Don’t forget: choosing the right license is step one. Staying licensed is a long-term commitment. Building your costs around stability — not solely speed — is how operators grow without setbacks.

What Else Impacts Your License Budget

Beyond the basic gambling license price, your location, audience, and payment processing tools can push your costs up or down. For example:

  • If you want to accept crypto, you may need additional approvals in some jurisdictions.
  • Expanding to certain countries (e.g., Germany or the Netherlands) requires local compliance add-ons.
  • Some B2B platforms won’t partner with you unless your license matches their standards.

With all that said, a license isn’t merely a checkbox. It’s a signal to your partners, banks, and players that your brand is real and ready. And the license you pick today impacts how you grow tomorrow.

Bottom Line: Let’s Build Your Fully Licensed Brand Together!

Operating without a license is not an option, that’s a given. When all is said and done, the overall cost of obtaining a gaming license depends on your path. But one thing’s certain in the online gambling industry: cutting corners here is never worth it. Operators with long-term plans know the license isn’t just a legal pass. It paves the way for partnerships, credibility, and market reach. And it’s one of the first questions asked by payment providers, aggregators, and even affiliates. At NuxGame, we offer full support: legal, technical, and operational. Industry experts from our team are always ready to help. Reach out today to discuss the online casino software price in your unique case! Let’s build a future-ready, fully licensed gambling business — together!