Obtaining a gaming license in Vanuatu

Vanuatu, officially the Republic of Vanuatu, is an archipelago of 83 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Thanks to its stable economic environment, favorable legislation, and lenient tax policies, Vanuatu attracts international investors seeking a secure jurisdiction for business operations.

Vanuatu was one of the first jurisdictions to issue online gambling licenses. Vanuatu entered this market in the 2000s by adopting the "Interactive Gaming Act," which established the legal framework for online gambling regulation. Due to flexible licensing conditions, advantageous tax policies, and a favorable business environment, Vanuatu quickly became a popular jurisdiction for gambling operators.

High levels of confidentiality, minimal regulatory restrictions, and the ability to operate in many "unregulated" markets make Vanuatu one of the most attractive options for online gambling operators seeking a license in a stable and flexible jurisdiction.

• Accessibility. Vanuatu is one of the most affordable jurisdictions in terms of gaming license acquisition costs, making it an ideal choice for startups and experienced operators looking to optimize expenses. With low license fees, minimal taxation, and a transparent registration process, Vanuatu offers an efficient solution for companies wanting to operate in the international market with minimal financial expenditure.
• Multi-jurisdictional Nature. The Vanuatu license is among the so-called "multi-jurisdictional" licenses, alongside Curacao, Malta, and the Isle of Man, which grant the right to operate globally, subject to compliance with local laws in the countries where operators' clients reside. The iGaming license allows operations in various "unregulated" markets and markets in the process of establishing regulation. Thanks to the favorable regulatory environment and international recognition, this license enables operation in different jurisdictions without the need to obtain separate permits in each country.
• Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technologies. It is expected that in 2025, Vanuatu will introduce new legislation for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), opening additional opportunities for operators working with cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies in the gambling sphere. The adoption of this law will allow Vanuatu to adapt its regulation to international standards, particularly the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations regarding cryptocurrency transactions and financial security. The new legal regime will provide clear rules for using digital assets in gambling operations, creating a safe and transparent environment for investors and gambling companies.
• Speed and Flexibility. Vanuatu is one of the most attractive offshore jurisdictions for interactive gambling operators due to simplified legislation and an accessible licensing process. Flexible regulatory requirements, minimal bureaucratic obstacles, and quick application review make Vanuatu an ideal choice for companies seeking an international gaming license with optimal conditions.
• Stability of Online Gambling Sector Regulation. The regulation of the iGaming sector in Vanuatu is one of the oldest in the world, and the regulatory environment in Vanuatu is characterized by stability and predictability, which is a key factor for online gambling operators. The jurisdiction not only maintains transparent and convenient licensing conditions but also gradually improves regulation in favor of operators, making it even more loyal and competitive.

License Types: B2C/B2B

The online gambling license in Vanuatu is a B2C type license, oriented towards operators planning to work in previously unregulated markets.

The B2B license is currently in development, and B2B licenses are expected to be offered by local legislators later.

Process of Registering a Gambling Company and Obtaining a Gaming License

The process of obtaining a gaming license in Vanuatu is clear, quick, and convenient for operators. It includes several main stages:

1 - Company Registration

The local regulator (Vanuatu Gaming Authority) does not require using a local company as the applicant for obtaining a license. Thus, companies registered in other jurisdictions can obtain a license, provided this does not contradict the regulatory requirements of the respective jurisdictions. However, we still recommend using a local company in Vanuatu. This helps avoid additional risks, as regulations regarding online gambling in other jurisdictions may change, potentially affecting your business.

Main requirements for company establishment in Vanuatu:

• Company Structure. Registration requires at least one shareholder and one director (can be the same person).
• Resident Director. The company must have at least one director who is a natural person resident in Vanuatu. The shareholder can be either a resident or non-resident.
• Capital Requirements. No minimum share capital is established, providing flexibility in company creation.
• Office and Representative. The company must have a registered office and official agent in Vanuatu.

2 - Personal Verification and Financial Due Diligence

As part of the licensing process, the regulator conducts detailed verification of applicants to ensure their reliability and financial stability.

Each director, shareholder, and ultimate beneficial owner must provide the following documents:

• Identity verification – certified copy of passport.
• Criminal record certificate – official document from the country of residence, issued no more than 6 months before application submission.
• Financial statements – proof of financial capability, particularly a statement confirming sufficient funds for conducting gambling business.
• Professional experience – resume or CV containing detailed information about work experience, especially in the gambling sphere.

This verification is a standard procedure aimed at ensuring transparency and reliability of operators obtaining a license in Vanuatu.

3 - Submission of Detailed Business Plan

A comprehensive business plan is a mandatory element of the gaming license application in Vanuatu. It must contain the following key sections:

• Description of gaming services – list of activities the company plans to provide (e.g., online casino, sports betting, etc.).
• Marketing and customer acquisition strategy – approach to attracting and retaining players, as well as target markets where the company plans to operate.
• Technological solutions and security – detailed information about the gaming platform, software providers, and measures for data protection and player security.
• Responsible gaming – mechanisms for ensuring responsible gaming, including age verification, player protection policies, and other measures to prevent problem gambling.
• Financial Projections – expected revenues, expenses, and profit for the first 3-5 years of operation.
• Regulatory compliance plan – strategy for ensuring compliance with Vanuatu's regulatory requirements, including Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols and Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures.

A well-prepared business plan increases chances for quick and successful license obtainment, demonstrating to the regulator the company's serious intentions and ability to operate according to jurisdictional requirements.

4 - License Payments and Fees

Obtaining a gaming license in Vanuatu involves mandatory license payments, including:

• Application Fee – one-time registration fee paid during submission.
• License Fee – mandatory payment for obtaining an interactive gaming license, plus regular renewal payments.
• Annual License Fee – the company must pay an annual fee to maintain license validity.
• Additional Fees – may include payments for due diligence, company registration, and other administrative expenses required by Vanuatu legislation.

All payments are mandatory for obtaining and maintaining the license, and their payment guarantees official permission to operate in the jurisdiction.

License Acquisition Timeframe

The process of obtaining a gaming license in Vanuatu typically takes 2 to 4 months, depending on application complexity, number of founders, directors, etc., and the speed of providing necessary documents. The faster the complete document package is collected and submitted, the more promptly the regulator will review the application and issue the license.

Gaming Business Taxation

After license approval, operators must pay an online gambling tax of one percent (1%) of gross gaming revenue (GGR) received from all bets. No other taxes or fees are charged to licensees or their companies.

VAT does not apply to online gambling income, regardless of whether the activity is conducted within Vanuatu or abroad.

Ongoing Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

After obtaining the license, the company must comply with regulatory requirements, including:

• AML Compliance – the company must implement strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policies and regularly submit reports to the Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (VFIU).
• Fair Gaming Standards – the gaming platform must guarantee fair play, particularly implementing Random Number Generators (RNG) to ensure transparent game results.
• Annual Audit – the company must annually submit audited financial statements prepared by an approved auditor in Vanuatu.
• License Renewal – the license must be renewed annually, and the operator must timely pay all fees and meet regulator requirements.

Compliance with these requirements is mandatory for maintaining an active license status and ensuring stable operation in the international market.

Obtain a License in Vanuatu with Campio Group Support

Our specialists will provide full support at each stage of the process – from company registration to obtaining a gaming license in Vanuatu. We will help prepare all necessary documentation, ensure regulatory compliance, and simplify interaction with local authorities.