United Kingdom (UKGC) Gambling License
UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
A UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) license is the most prestigious in online gambling. It grants direct access to the highly regulated, high-value UK market and signals unmatched credibility to banks, investors and tier-one partners.
The UK regime is also the strictest: licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP), Personal Management Licences for key individuals, stringent AML obligations and significant financial risk assessments. It is suited to well-capitalised, established operators.
Capital requirements
No fixed minimum, but the UKGC requires detailed source-of-funds evidence, a full financial risk assessment and — where applicable — an arrangement for holding player funds in a protected bank account.
Tax treatment
Remote gaming duty of 21% on gross gambling yield, payable to HMRC, on top of UKGC fees.
Required documents
Full corporate structure chart and KYC for every shareholder, UBO and director
Source of funds and source of wealth evidence for all major owners
Personal Management Licence (PML) applications for key individuals (CEO, MLRO, AML lead)
Detailed business plan and financial projections
AML/CFT policies aligned to LCCP and UK anti-money-laundering guidance
Safer gambling and player protection procedures
Technical platform documentation, RNG certification and independent game testing
Corporate structure
The operating licence is held by a UK entity (typically a UK-incorporated company) with named individuals holding Personal Management Licences. Applicants must satisfy the UKGC's fit-and-proper tests and ongoing compliance reporting.
Frequently asked questions
What licence types does the UKGC issue?
Operating licences for casino, bingo and betting activities (each licensed separately, with flat additional fees for combined activities), plus Personal Management Licences for key individuals.
What is the gambling tax in the UK?
Remote gaming duty of 21% of gross gambling yield, payable to HMRC.
How long does a UKGC application take?
Typically four to eight months from submission, depending on application quality, GGY band and PML processing.
Official source: UK Gambling Commission — fees
Compare with other jurisdictions

Anjouan
Fast, affordable license from the Comoros Union. Ideal for startups launching their first casino or sportsbook with minimal overhead and quick go-live.
2–6 weeksCuraçao
The most popular iGaming license worldwide. One license covers all game types, low cost, and broad international market access with a single application.
4–8 weeksMalta (MGA)
The gold standard of iGaming regulation. EU passporting rights, premium reputation, and seamless access to European banking partners.
12–24 weeksReady to apply for a United Kingdom (UKGC) license?
Our licensing team manages the full application — from company formation to issuance.
Talk to our licensing team