When gambling online, safety should always come first. That’s why a casino license is the number one factor to check before signing up. A license ensures that the casino has passed strict regulatory audits, operates legally, and offers fair, transparent casino games. It also builds trust with players, improves the casino’s reputation, and ensures payment systems like Visa and Mastercard are available.

In this guide, we’ll explain why licenses matter, how to check them, and highlight the top 5 iGaming licensing authorities in the world.

Why Casino Licenses Are So Important? 

Online gambling is booming, with thousands of new casinos launching every year. However, not all are safe. Unregulated casinos often pose risks such as rigged games, unsafe transactions, or withheld winnings.

Licensed casinos, on the other hand, guarantee:

  • Fairness – RNGs (random number generators) are tested and unbiased.

  • Security – Player funds and personal data are protected.

  • Trustworthy partnerships – Top software providers (NetEnt, IGT, Microgaming, Blueprint, Playtech, Wazdan, etc.) and payment systems only work with licensed operators.

  • High roller attraction – Serious players avoid unlicensed casinos.

Simply put: a license is proof of legitimacy.

How to Check if a Casino is Licensed

Before registering in an online casino, you should carefully check for a license. It is not a complicated process and you can check the casino’s license in plenty of ways:

  • Casino website footer – Reputable casinos display their license number and regulator’s logo at the bottom of the homepage.

  • Regulator’s official site – Each authority lists licensed operators for transparency.

  • Independent reviews – Useful for extra info, but beware of fake reviews. Always cross-check with the official source.

Types of Gambling Jurisdictions

We normally distinguish between two types of gambling jurisdictions – internal and international. 

  • International (Offshore) Licenses – Allow operators to reach global markets and avoid local restrictions. Example: Curacao.

  • National (Internal) Licenses – Country-specific permits, legal only within certain borders. Examples: UK, Spain, Romania, Portugal.

Choosing the right jurisdiction depends on reputation, taxes, application costs, and compliance requirements.

5 Leading iGaming Licensing Authorities 

Wondering about where particular gambling sites get their licenses from?

Well, multiple iGaming jurisdiction bodies issue licenses to online casinos.  Look below!

1. Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

The Malta Gaming Authority is one of the most respected regulators in the world. Based in the EU, it offers four types of licenses for different gambling activities. Getting approved by the MGA is not easy, as the process includes deep checks into the casino’s software, business plan, and financial health. Because it is recognized across Europe, many top casinos choose it to build trust with players. The fees are not the lowest, but the global reputation makes it worth it for serious operators who want long-term success in the European market.

Key Points:

  • Application fee: €2,330

  • Annual fee: €8,500

  • Monthly gaming taxes

  • Global and EU recognition.

2. Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA)

The Gibraltar Regulatory Authority has been around since 1998, making it one of the oldest gambling regulators. Casinos that want a license here must provide extensive documents and meet strict standards. The GRA is known for its strong reputation in the industry and is trusted by players worldwide. Many large operators choose Gibraltar because it combines reliable rules with low taxes, which helps companies stay profitable while still being seen as trustworthy. The authority focuses on keeping games fair, protecting players, and supporting responsible gambling practices.

Key Points:

  • Founded in 1998

  • Strong global reputation

  • Requires extensive business documentation

  • Low tax system.

3. Curacao Gaming Authority

Curacao is one of the most popular licensing options for new casinos because it is affordable and covers all gambling activities under a single license. Many operators see it as a quick way to enter the global market. The application process is usually faster than other regulators, and the tax rules are favorable. While Curacao licenses may not carry the same prestige as Malta or Gibraltar, they are widely recognized, making them a good choice for smaller casinos or startups. This balance of low cost and broad coverage is why so many gambling sites use it today.

Key Points:

  • Costs: ~$14,000 first year, ~$10,000 yearly

  • Covers all gambling types with one license

  • Fast approval process

  • Favorable tax laws.

4. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda has been a respected name in gambling regulation for many years. Casinos that apply here face high costs, but in return they receive strong credibility. The process includes a $15,000 non-refundable application fee plus a $100,000 license fee. Renewal also requires a yearly $5,000 fee and a $100,000 reserve. These high costs mean that only serious and well-funded operators usually apply. For players, this often signals a safer and more stable casino. Antigua and Barbuda is known for its strict standards, making it a symbol of security and prestige in the iGaming industry.

Key Points:

  • Application fee: $15,000 + $100,000 license fee

  • Renewal: $5,000 yearly + $100,000 reserve

  • High costs, but strong credibility

  • Known for strict safety standards.

5. Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission

The Isle of Man offers one of the most respected licenses worldwide. Operators must register their company and host servers on the island, which ensures extra oversight. While the license comes with higher costs than some other regulators, it gives casinos a strong reputation for fairness and compliance. The tax rate is very low, ranging from just 0.1% to 1.5%, which helps operators remain competitive. For players, a license from the Isle of Man means that the casino follows fair rules and strict regulations. It’s a trusted option for both large companies and serious gambling sites.

Key Points:

  • Application fee: ~£5,000

  • Annual fee: ~£35,000

  • Taxes: 0.1%–1.5%

  • Strong reputation and fair regulation.

Comparison of Top iGaming Licensing Authorities

Licensing Authority Costs Taxes Reputation Pros
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) €2,330 application + €8,500 yearly Monthly gaming taxes Very high (EU recognized) EU trust, global respect, access to European markets
Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA) Varies (depends on business) Low tax system Very high Long history, reliable rules, strong name
Curacao Gaming Authority ~$14,000 first year, ~$10,000 yearly Very favorable Medium–high (widely recognized) Cheap, fast approval, one license covers all
Antigua and Barbuda $15,000 application + $100,000 license fee + $5,000 yearly renewal Not fixed, but high reserve required High Prestige, strong safety standards
Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission ~£5,000 application + £35,000 yearly 0.1%–1.5% Very high Strong reputation, strict compliance, low tax rates

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Verify a Casino License

Many players skip checking a license because they think it’s too technical, but in reality, it’s simple and takes less than five minutes. Following these steps will help you avoid unsafe casinos and protect your money.

1. Scroll to the Footer of the Casino’s Homepage

Legitimate casinos proudly display their license information at the very bottom of their homepage. In most cases, you will see the name of the licensing authority (such as Malta Gaming Authority or Curacao eGaming), the license number, and sometimes a clickable logo. If you can’t find anything, that’s already a red flag. A trusted casino will never hide this information.

2. Look for the License Number and Regulator’s Logo

A proper license entry should include:

  • The regulator’s logo (e.g., MGA, UKGC, GRA).

  • A license number or code.

  • Sometimes a direct link to the regulator’s official site.

If you only see a logo without a number, be careful — some scam sites use fake graphics to trick players. Always look for both the logo and the number.

3. Copy the Number and Check it on the Regulator’s Official Website

Each licensing authority has an official portal where they list all approved casinos. Visit the site of the regulator (for example, the Malta Gaming Authority License Register) and paste the license number into the search bar. If the casino is real, it will show up with details such as the company name, registration date, and license status.

4. Confirm if the Casino is Listed as Active

It’s not enough for the casino to appear in the register — you also need to check if the license is active and valid. Some casinos lose their licenses but continue displaying old numbers on their sites. On the regulator’s portal, look for words like Active, Suspended, or Expired. If it’s not active, stay away from that casino.

5. Double-Check with Independent Sources (Optional)

For extra safety, you can cross-check the license details with trusted casino review sites. Reputable reviewers often verify this information themselves. But remember: always rely on the official regulator’s database as your main source, since some review sites can be biased or outdated.

The Bottom Line

Licensing is the foundation of safe and fair online gambling. The top regulators — Malta, Gibraltar, Curacao, Antigua & Barbuda, and the Isle of Man — ensure that only casinos meeting strict standards can operate under their authority.

For players, checking for a license is the simplest way to protect their money, ensure fair play, and enjoy secure entertainment.