How To Get A UK Casino Licence in the UK

As a business owner, how do you go about doing this? Based on insight from Monster Casino Bonus, we take you through the vital steps in order to get an operating licence.

How Can I Apply For A UK Casino Licence?

Operating licences for casino operators, affiliates and associates are all regulated by the industry watchdog, the UK Gambling Commission. They provide licences to bingo game providers, casino gaming machine providers, casinos, lottery operators as well as remote gambling and external lottery managers. The Gambling Commission strictly regulates this industry, and it is vital that you have an operating licence, whether it is a physical or online casino facility, in order for your premises to be legally viable.

You can apply online for a licence through the Commissions website, and they do not accept applications made by email or through other means. The applications can take up to 16 weeks, so make sure you have made your application well in advance.

Documents Needed To Get A Casino Licence

You will need to provide a number of documents (which can be scanned and sent with your application) when applying for a licence. The exact list of items you will need can be checked online with their website, as depending on whether you are applying as a sole trader, a limited company etc. different documentation is required for each type of applicant.

Typically, you will need to provide operator identity documents showing:

• Certificate of incorporation
• Constitution
• Share certificates
• Management structure
• Articles of association

You may also need to provide policy documents detailing:

• Your business plan
• Proof of funding
• Rules of play
• Customer terms and conditions
• Bank statements dating from the last six months

You may also be asked for the following financial documents:

• Annual reports given to regulators
• Any details of profit-sharing or bonus schemes
• Annual returns
• Public debt or equity offerings your business has to date

Make sure that you have included all the necessary document stipulated in your application, or you could end up having your application being completely rejected.

Types Of Casino Licenses in the UK

There is not just one type of casino licence available. When making your application, you will need to make sure you are applying for the right type for your business.

In some cases, it may be relevant to obtain all three:

• A personal management licence
• An operating licence
• A personal functional licence

Depending on the type of casino business you run, you may also need to obtain a premises licence, which you can get directly through your Local Licensing Authority.

How Much Do Casino Licences Cost?

The amount you pay will be dependent on the type of business you run, your gross income and how many establishments you run in total.