The online gaming industry is a booming market that is expected to grow by 12.6 percent by 2033. It is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Europe and other nations, making it attractive for investors and entrepreneurs. Among all the jurisdictions, Nevis offers an all-in-one license that specifically focuses on offshore business.
Through a Nevis gaming license, you can onboard international clients from numerous locations across the globe. Are you thinking of setting up your gaming business in Nevis? Explore the key features and the process for obtaining the license in our latest blog.
What is the Nevis Gaming license?
Also known as a Nevis gambling license, it is a key approval that allows a firm to set up an online gaming business in Nevis. This licence allows a firm to become an online gaming operator or an online gaming supplier in the jurisdiction. An online gaming operator can offer gaming services such as sports betting, casino games, and poker directly to players. On the other hand, an online gaming supplier provides the technology or a platform that enables an online gaming operator to build the game.
It is an offshore license that prohibits domestic gaming activities. That means an online gaming firm cannot onboard citizens of Nevis as clients.
In Nevis, an offshore gaming license is governed by the Nevis Gaming License Ordinance, 2025. The Nevis Online Gaming Authority (NOGA) oversees the activities of the license holders.
What are the Key Features of the Nevis Gaming License?
A Nevis gambling license has key features distinguishing it from other types of business licenses. Here is a quick glance at them:
Annual Renewal
Section 19 of the Nevis Gaming License Ordinance clearly states that the offshore gaming license is issued only for one year, unless revoked or suspended by the authorities. You must renew it before the anniversary of the issuance of the license.
Only Issued to Companies
As per Section 7 of the Ordinance, only a firm registered in Nevis can obtain the license to render online gaming services. Moreover, any firm that is registered outside the jurisdiction must register as a foreign company in Nevis to obtain the license. For example, if you have a company incorporated in Seychelles, you must re-register as a foreign company in Nevis to obtain the license.
Allows Multiple Domain Registration
Any firm with a Nevis gaming license can register up to two domains (websites) through the license by default. Additionally, it can also extend and register up to 40 domains under the same license. However, you will have to obtain a second license to register more domains.
No Sublicensing
The Nevis Gaming Ordinance, 2025, strictly prohibits sublicensing. Thus, any firm with a Nevis gaming license cannot rent or lease that license to other firms. It allows transparency between the business and the government, as white-label models (such as a partnership between operator and supplier) require both B2B and B2C licenses and prior regulatory approval.
Non-transferable
A firm holding a Nevis gambling license cannot sell or transfer the ownership of the license to another firm. Thus, the legal permission to operate a gaming business is tied strictly to the specific company and individuals that the NOGA originally vetted.
Dual Licensing
A single firm can hold a B2B and a B2C license in Nevis. However, they require separate regulatory approval and payment of fees.
What are the Classes of the Nevis Gaming License?
There are only two classes of the Nevis gambling license. Unlike other jurisdictions, you don’t have to obtain any additional permits in Nevis. Section 8 of the Ordinance governs these license types:
- Business-to-Consumer (B2C) License: This is the gaming operator license that allows a firm to interact with the player directly. Holders of this license can provide gaming services, including poker, sports betting, and more.
- Business-to-Business (B2B) License: This is the gaming supplier license that is suitable for firms providing technology or infrastructure (such as software) to B2C operators.
Which Documents are Required to Obtain a Nevis Gaming License?
Online gaming is a regulated industry and requires strict due diligence. Anyone setting up a firm to obtain a Nevis gaming license has to submit two sets of documents: company documents and individual KYC documents. These documents can also vary as per the type of license.
Moreover, you may have to provide additional documents if you are setting up a subsidiary in Nevis under an already existing holding company in Nevis or another jurisdiction.
The following is the list of documents that must be compiled:
*A lawyer, accountant, or notary must complete the certification of the documents no more than 90 days prior to their submission to the relevant authority.
What are the Steps to Obtain a Nevis Gambling License?
Both foreign and domestic firms can apply for a license. You can follow the process below to obtain the same:
Step 1: Appoint a Registered Agent
Hiring a registered agent is mandatory for completing company formation in Nevis. The registered agent will handle all the formalities and help you meet the requirements. In case your firm is registered in another jurisdiction, you may have to register as a foreign company in Nevis.
Step 2: Get a Registered Address
Your Nevis firm must have a local address to facilitate correspondence with the authorities and meet the economic substance requirements.
Step 3: Set Up a Company
Select the company structure for your firm. You can choose from a Nevis international business company or a Nevis limited liability company as the structure for your venture. The registered agent will help you submit the forms and documents accurately.
Step 4: Decide the Business’s Purpose
Before moving forward with company incorporation, you must identify the business’s purpose. To enter the gaming industry in Nevis, your business can either be a gaming service provider or a supplier of technology. The licensing documents can vary depending on the purpose of your business.
Step 5: Apply for a License
Once your firm is set up, the registered agent will help you apply for a license. Initially, you must email the incorporation certificate and the business plan to the relevant authority. After making the requisite payment, you can access the portal, complete the application form, and submit additional documents for the license.
Step 6: Integrate Technology
Once you have obtained the license, integrate the appropriate technical infrastructure into your gaming website or application.
Step 7: Appoint a Compliance and Reporting Officer
This is especially important for B2C license holders, who must appoint both a compliance and a reporting officer. The compliance officer cannot be a shareholder, director, or UBO. Moreover, the reporting officer must be a resident and registered with the Nevis Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC).
What are the Reasons for License Revocation?
Section 22 of the Nevis Online Gaming Ordinance, 2025, outlines the following reasons for license revocation. A license is revoked when a firm:
- Has not commenced business within 90 days of the issuance of the Nevis gaming license.
- Has failed to comply with the requirements of the license.
- Has ceased to carry on business under its license for more than 6 months.
- Carries on the business in an unlawful manner.
- Has provided false or misleading information.
- Fails to pay the annual fee.
How Can Business Setup Worldwide (BSW) Help?
Nevis gaming license opens up avenues for entrepreneurs looking to enter the global gaming industry. With only two license classes, it is easier to create a vertically integrated business and act as both a supplier and an operator. With numerous documents to submit and criteria to meet, legal guidance is important. That’s where Business Setup Worldwide can help you. Our experts will help you with a detailed and customized plan so that you can enjoy a smooth license acquisition experience. Moreover, our experts are well-versed in business setup strategies. Reach out to us to get started with offshore company formation.
