Curaçao Gaming Authority Publishes Version 2.0 of Fee Policy Under the LOK Framework

The regulator has published version 2.0 of its fee policy, formally removing the transitional phase of the former licensing system and introducing a semi-annual billing model for the first year of validity. The measure aims to consolidate regulatory modernization following recent institutional disruptions.

A close-up view of a gaming license document featuring an official seal.

Curaçao — The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) has released a comprehensive update to its fee policy under the new National Ordinance for Games of Chance (Landsverordening op de Kansspelen – LOK), marking another step in the consolidation of the island’s new online gaming regulatory regime. Version 2.0 of the fee framework introduces administrative adjustments and billing procedures designed to strengthen financial supervision and operational clarity for both B2C operators and B2B service providers.

The updated policy removes the final transitional provisions of the former NOOGH framework, formally bringing the previous licensing system to a definitive close. In parallel, it introduces a prorated billing model for the first year of application under the LOK. Under this approach, annual fees will be divided into two six-month periods: the first payable prior to the formal issuance of the license, and the second conditional upon the operator’s continued eligibility following an initial regulatory review. From the second year onward, billing will revert to a standard annual cycle.

The core fee structure remains unchanged. The license application fee continues to be set at EUR 4,592 for both operators and service providers. Licensed B2C operators remain subject to an annual fee of EUR 47,450, consisting of a contribution to the National Treasury and a supervisory fee payable to the CGA. B2B providers will continue to pay an annual fee of EUR 24,490. Administrative charges related to domains, certificates, or changes in ownership structures also remain unchanged.

The Authority further clarified that invoices must be settled within 14 days of issuance. Failure to pay within a maximum period of 71 days will result in immediate license revocation and removal from the public register. The CGA emphasized that receipt of an invoice does not constitute automatic license renewal; written confirmation from the Authority is required.

The publication of the revised policy takes place amid broader institutional realignment. In August, supervisory responsibility for the gaming sector was transferred from the Ministry of Finance to the Ministry of Justice, with the stated objective of strengthening the State’s legal capacity to address illegal gaming operations. This transition followed the collective resignation of the CGA’s board, which temporarily left the Authority without full leadership and under the direct oversight of Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas.

Despite these challenges, the updated fee framework seeks to ensure continuity in the regulatory modernization process and provide greater predictability for the market. Local analysts note that the prorated billing approach and enhanced precision in fee collection are intended to bring order to the regulatory transition, improve Curaçao’s international reputation, and attract operators that prioritize regulatory compliance.