Head of practice
Head of Corporate Law and Fintech Practice. Expert in the creation and reorganization of companies, support of M&A transactions, as well as legal support for opening and running a business in the EU, Asia, and North America.
Obtaining a gambling license in the UK
A gambling license in the UK (UK Gambling Commission – UKGC) is one of the most prestigious in the world. It opens up access to the European and international market, and also increases the trust of players and partners.
As of 2025, there are over 2,300 licensed operators operating in the UK, of which over 600 companies are online casinos and bookmakers. The UKGC license gives the right to conduct activities in the following areas:
- online casinos,
- sports betting,
- lotteries,
- poker and bingo.
The company “Prikhodko and Partners” specializes in supporting clients in the process of obtaining a UKGC license, providing legal support at every stage.
What documents are required to obtain a gambling license in the UK?
To obtain an online casino license in the UK, the applicant must submit a package of documents to the UKGC, including:
- the company’s statutory documents;
- a business plan with financial forecasts;
- confirmation of the sources of origin of funds;
- certificates of good criminal record of owners and directors;
- AML (anti-money laundering) policy and responsible gaming policy;
- confirmation of GDPR compliance.
What are the requirements for someone wishing to obtain a gambling license in the UK?
In 2025, the minimum authorized capital for online operators is from 50,000 GBP, depending on the type of license.
The UKGC checks applicants according to the fit and proper test. The main requirements are:
- impeccable business reputation;
- no criminal record;
- confirmed source of capital;
- experience in the gambling industry or finance;
- the presence of a Compliance Officer and MLRO (Money Laundering Reporting Officer).
According to the UKGC, in 2024, 18% of applicants were refused due to financial or reputational problems.
What is the procedure for obtaining a gambling license in the UK?
To obtain a gambling license in the UK, a company goes through the following stages:
- Registration of a company in the UK.
- Preparation of internal policies (AML, KYC, GDPR).
- Submission of an application and payment of the UKGC fee.
- Due diligence check of owners and directors.
- Obtaining a decision from the Commission.
License obtaining period: 4–6 months, in complex cases up to 9 months.
Acquisition of a company with a gambling license in the UK: how much does it cost?
In 2025, purchasing a ready-made company with a UKGC license remains a popular solution for quick market entry. Prices range from:
- 450,000 GBP – a company with an online casino license;
- 700,000 GBP – a bookmaker license;
- 1.2 million GBP and more – multi-license (online casino + betting + lottery).
Important: even when buying a ready-made company, the UKGC conducts a check on the new owner.
When registering “from scratch”:
- strict AML/KYC requirements,
- high compliance costs,
- risk of rejection due to insufficient financial transparency.
When buying a ready-made company:
- high price,
- repeated UKGC check,
- possible hidden liabilities.
According to statistics, in 2024, 27% of transactions for the purchase of companies with a license were accompanied by additional checks due to AML violations.
Is it possible to obtain a gambling license in countries other than the UK?
Yes, there are other jurisdictions:
- Malta (MGA) – faster and cheaper.
- Curacao – a budget option, but with a lower level of trust.
- Gibraltar and the Isle of Man – prestigious, but also have strict requirements.
How can a lawyer help you obtain a gambling license in the UK?
Prykhodko & Partners will help you choose the best jurisdiction depending on your goals.
We offer a full range of services:
- company registration in the UK;
- preparation and submission of documents to the UKGC;
- support in opening bank accounts;
- development of AML/KYC policies;
- audit of companies before purchase;
- tax advice and support.
Our expertise in international corporate law and fintech allows clients to confidently enter the UK market and avoid legal risks.
If you are planning to obtain a gambling license in the UK, contact the team of “Prikhodko and Partners”. We know how to go through the procedure quickly and without unnecessary risks.
Calculate the cost of services
1 question
Do you need advice on obtaining a license?
2 question
Do you need help in collecting and preparing documents for obtaining a license?
3 question
Are you ready to consider buying a company with an already valid gambling license?
You may also need:
call back
during the day
Telegram
Viber
WhatsApp
Facebook
Instagram