Anjouan Gaming License Surpasses 1,300 Active Permits in 2026

Anjouan Gaming License Surpasses 1,300 Active Permits – Cost Structure and Oversight Shape 2026 Market Position

Key Takeaways

• Anjouan authorities oversee more than 1,300 active iGaming licenses as of 2026.
• The license covers online casinos, sportsbooks, poker, lotteries, esports, and crypto games under one permit.
• The framework was updated and streamlined in 2023, contributing to increased adoption.
• There are no taxes on gross gaming revenue, VAT, or corporate income tax under the Anjouan regime.
• Approval can be issued within weeks if documentation is complete, according to industry consultant Ron Mendelson.

Regulatory Update in 2023 Drives Adoption

The Anjouan gaming seal, issued from the Comoros Islands, has gained visibility in the iGaming sector following a regulatory update and streamlining process completed in 2023. According to Ron Mendelson, Director of Costa Rica based consultancy Fast Offshore, the revised framework has led to a sharp increase in uptake among operators.

As of 2026, local authorities in Anjouan oversee more than 1,300 active licenses. Licensed operators run thousands of websites globally under this framework. The seal applies to multiple verticals, including online casinos, sportsbooks, poker platforms, lotteries, esports betting, and crypto based gaming products. These activities are covered under a single umbrella permit.

For operators evaluating licensing options, the updated structure has positioned Anjouan as a lower cost alternative compared to jurisdictions such as Malta or the Isle of Man, according to the information provided.

Tax Structure and Cost Model

A central feature of the Anjouan regime is its tax model. The framework does not impose tax on gross gaming revenue. It also does not levy value added tax or corporate income tax. In addition, application and renewal costs are described as comparatively low.

This structure affects how operators allocate capital. Without gaming revenue tax or corporate income tax obligations in the jurisdiction, companies retain a larger share of operational revenue within the licensed entity. According to Mendelson, this allows operators to direct funds toward technology infrastructure, user interface development, marketing, and security systems.

For international operators active in volatile or emerging markets, the absence of local gaming and corporate taxation may influence jurisdictional selection. However, the license is not described as a tier 1 authorization.

Scope of Oversight and Compliance Requirements

Although positioned as a cost efficient option, the Anjouan seal includes compliance requirements. The framework requires certified random number generators to support fair play. Operators must implement anti money laundering controls, transaction monitoring systems, and responsible gaming tools.

Mandatory responsible gaming measures include deposit limits, timeouts, and self exclusion options. In addition, the licensing process includes due diligence checks on owners, directors, and key staff. Applicants must provide passports, proof of address, criminal clearances, and professional background documentation. Criminal background checks are part of the approval process.

Applicants must also submit a detailed business plan outlining offerings, target markets, and financial projections. Technical requirements include encryption standards and certified gaming systems. Anti money laundering and know your customer policies must be documented and implemented.

The process typically involves incorporating a company, often in Anjouan or another qualifying offshore jurisdiction, and opening a local bank account. According to the information provided, if documentation is complete, approval can be issued within weeks and in some cases within days.

Positioning in Global Markets

The Anjouan seal is described as aligned with international regulatory norms. This alignment is presented as enabling operators to target high growth regions across Latin America, Southeast Asia, parts of Europe, and Africa.

For operators serving cross border audiences, a single license covering multiple verticals can simplify operational structuring. The framework allows casino, sportsbook, and crypto gaming activities to operate under one authorization rather than requiring separate approvals for each product type.

For players, the presence of the Anjouan seal on a website is presented as an indicator that the operator is subject to regulatory oversight, audits, and compliance requirements. The framework includes monitoring of transactions and enforcement mechanisms designed to remove non compliant actors.

Application Process and Role of Intermediaries

The licensing process involves several structured steps. Applicants must incorporate a corporate entity, prepare and submit a business plan, provide personal and corporate documentation, and implement compliant technical and compliance systems.

Consultancy firms such as Fast Offshore support operators in preparing applications, incorporating entities, and managing ongoing compliance obligations. According to Mendelson, working with experienced intermediaries can reduce processing times if documentation is complete and meets technical specifications.

The framework is described as less bureaucratic than some established European jurisdictions, while still requiring documented compliance procedures and due diligence checks.

Our Assessment

The Anjouan gaming seal has expanded significantly since its 2023 regulatory update, with more than 1,300 active licenses reported in 2026. Its structure combines a multi vertical permit with a tax model that does not impose gross gaming revenue tax, VAT, or corporate income tax within the jurisdiction. At the same time, it requires certified gaming systems, anti money laundering controls, responsible gaming tools, and documented due diligence on key personnel. For international operators and users evaluating licensing credentials, the framework represents a regulated but non tier 1 option that emphasizes cost structure, processing speed, and formal compliance requirements under the supervision of Anjouan authorities.