Following the introduction of the Nevis Online Gaming Ordinance, 2025, Nevis has become a top-notch jurisdiction to begin a gaming business. The recently introduced legislation has streamlined the registration process by consolidating it into only two categories of Nevis gaming licenses: B2B and B2C.
For anyone looking to set up a gaming platform, an online casino, or a sports betting platform, Nevis provides a high-end, internationally recognized platform. Our blog guides you through the meaning, requirements, and process of obtaining a Nevis gaming license.
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. It allows a firm to become an online gaming operator or supplier in the jurisdiction.
As per the Nevis gaming framework, an online gaming operator offers gaming services, including sports betting, casino games, and poker, directly to players. Whereas 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.
The Nevis 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?
The following are the key features of the Nevis gambling license. Take a look:
Annual Renewal
As per the Section 19 of the Nevis Gaming License Ordinance, an 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 2 domains (websites) under the license by default, and this limit can be extended to 40.
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 strictly tied to the specific company and individuals vetted by the NOGA.
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.
The Crypto & Web3 Advantage
Built to accommodate the growing crypto industry, the Nevis framework explicitly accommodates cryptocurrency payments, blockchain-based gaming, and token integrations. Operators can run fiat-only, crypto-only, or hybrid payment models under a single license, provided they maintain strict, FATF-aligned AML/KYC protocols.
What are the Types of the Nevis Gaming License?
There are only two types 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.
Nevis Gaming License Vs. Other Jurisdictions’ Licenses - What’s Different?
Feature | Nevis (NOGA) | Malta (MGA) | Curacao (LOK Regulations) | Anjouan (AOFA) |
Reputation | Tier 3: Fast-growing, modern regulatory newcomer. | Tier 1: Elite, globally respected, high trust. | Tier 2: Established, transitioning to stricter oversight. | Tier 3: Entry-level, popular for rapid startups. |
Timeline | Fast (8 to 12 weeks) | Slow (3 to 6 months) | Moderate (2 to 4 months) | Very Fast (2 to 4 weeks) |
Corporate Tax | 0% on foreign income | 35% | 2% on Net Profits | 0% |
License Scope | Divided into simple B2C or B2B licenses | Multi-tiered (separate licenses for B2C / game types) | All-in-one license for all gaming types | All-in-one license for all gaming types |
Crypto-friendliness | Friendly | Strict | Highly Friendly | Highly Friendly |
Key Advantage | Modern 2025/2026 regulations, zero tax, no sub-licensing. | Unlocks major European markets and institutional partnerships. | Balanced middle-ground with a recognized framework. | The absolute cheapest and fastest way to launch legally. |
Documents 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.
Key Requirements to Obtain a Nevis Gaming License
To begin a gaming business in Nevis, you must compulsorily meet the following requirements to ensure compliance:
- Must form and register a local corporate structure in Nevis, typically an international business company (IBC) or a limited liability company (LLC).
- Must appoint a local registered agent and a physical registered legal address within Nevis to handle regulatory correspondence and secure financial recordkeeping.
- Strict operational protocols to ensure no services are offered to residents or citizens of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
- Must pay a non-refundable amount of €28,000 annual licensing fee.
- Must submit a detailed 3-year business plan outlining the corporate structure, software deployment contracts, game/content provider agreements, targeted marketing demographics, and revenue projections.
- Must have definitive proof of registration and ownership for the operational web domains (the baseline license accommodates up to 2 default URLs).
- Must draft corporate policies outlining comprehensive user identification, age verification (18+), and strict Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing procedures.
- Must integrate localized player protection features, including user self-exclusion tools, deposit and wagering limits, and active Geo-IP blocking software to restrict access from blacklisted countries.
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 payment of a non-refundable fee, 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 categories, 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 develop a detailed, customized plan so 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.
