Overview of Gambling License in Belize
Belize has issued remote-gaming permits since the Computer Wagering Licensing Act 1995 and the Online Gaming Regulations 2004. The regime is enforced by the Gaming Control Board of Belize (“gaming control board”), an independent body appointed by the Government of Belize to regulate all gambling activities in Belize.
Operating a gambling business without a license is an offence under the Gaming Control Act; only two online-gaming companies currently hold valid certificates, proving that the board takes a strict stance on unapproved operators. This tight oversight gives new gaming operators credibility with banks while keeping the reputation of the Belize gambling sector intact.
Types of Gambling Licenses in Belize
Choosing the right type of license is the first strategic step. Each permit covers a specific set of gaming activities while sharing the same core compliance rules.
Online Casino License
A one-size-fits-all casino license that lets an operator run slots, live tables and RNG games for players outside of Belize. It also includes permission for remote poker rooms and virtual lotteries. A license to operate an online casino is valid for one year and must be renewed by 31 March.
Sports Betting License
This permit authorises fixed-odds, spread, and in-play wagers on international events, making it attractive to sportsbook-focused online gaming operators. It falls under the same annual fee schedule as the casino permit, so no extra levy is required when both verticals are combined.
Other Types of Gaming Licenses
Belize also offers certificates for bingo halls, raffles, and land-based gaming rooms. Each type of gambling needs separate board approval, yet the paperwork mirrors the remote-gaming file, streamlining expansion for established gaming companies.
Procedure for Obtaining a Gambling License
The application process follows six clear phases, all handled by the control board under the Gaming Control Act:
| Phase | Key Tasks |
|---|---|
| 1. Company setup | Form an International Business Company with the minimum paid-up capital of US $1 million; a licensed financial institution in Belize must confirm funds |
| 2. File & fee | Submit ten bound copies of the business plan and pay the non-refundable application fee of US $5 000 |
| 3. Due diligence | The gaming control board conducts background checks on shareholders and key staff; fingerprints and police records are mandatory |
| 4. Security deposit | Place US $500 000 in trust at the Central Bank to protect player funds and fines |
| 5. Inspection | Board officers review servers, RNG, and the internal control system that tracks every gambling transaction |
| 6. Grant of licence | A decision is usually issued within 24 hours once all documents are complete, making Belize one of the fastest jurisdictions globally |
Costs and Fees Associated with Belize Gambling Licenses
The license cost structure for Belize gaming licenses has evolved significantly over the years, making it one of the most affordable options in the industry:
| Item | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 5 000 | Due on filing |
| Gaming Control Board dues | 5 000 | Board administration charge |
| Guidebook fee | 500 | Payable once |
| Annual license fee | 10 000 | Invoiced each 31 March (the annual renewal fee becomes due) |
| Security deposit | 500 000 | Held in trust; refundable on exit |
| Tax on turnover | 0.75 % of gross, capped at 250 000 | Competitive for the online gaming industry |
The total license cost for year one is roughly US $515 500, yet the running fees drop to US $10 000 plus tax from year two onwards.
Advantages of Obtaining a License in Belize
Obtaining a gaming license in Belize offers numerous compelling advantages that make it attractive to international gaming operators:
- Speed – a full permit can be issued in 24 hours when the file is flawless.
- Low overhead – the license fee and tax band remain among the lowest in the Caribbean, boosting ROI for start-ups and seasoned gaming companies in Belize.
- Stable jurisdiction – Belize is English-speaking, uses common-law courts, and sits in a convenient time zone for both EU and LATAM player support.
- Flexible hosting – servers may reside abroad once mirrored logs are retained locally, easing scaling for cloud-based online gaming business models.
- One-stop permit – a single licence covers all types of gaming from slots to sports bets, simplifying compliance for multi-vertical gambling businesses.