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Gambling license in the Seychelles
The Seychelles is one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions for all types of entrepreneurial activity. To launch an online casino project, it is necessary to obtain approval from the local regulator in accordance with national legislation.
A new Gambling Licensing Act was adopted in the Seychelles in 2014. This law introduced changes to the types of available licenses and the requirements imposed on licensees.
Under current Seychelles legislation, there are three types of licenses available: Slot Machine License, Land-Based Casino License, and Interactive Gaming License (Online Casino).
Why do you need a gambling license in the Seychelles
A Seychelles gambling license is required to legally offer gambling services, including online casinos, poker rooms, sportsbooks, and other types of gaming operations.
- Legal compliance and business protection: operate within a legal framework and avoid enforcement actions or access restrictions from regulators.
- Player trust: licensed operators enjoy greater credibility, as their operations are regulated by the state.
- Access to payment systems: banks and payment processors are more likely to cooperate with licensed entities.
- Global operations: a Seychelles license permits activity in multiple jurisdictions (except where gambling is explicitly prohibited).
- Tax advantages: the jurisdiction offers low tax rates and no VAT, making it attractive from a fiscal standpoint.
Types of gambling licenses in the Seychelles
- Slot Machine License
Authorizes the installation and operation of physical gaming machines in designated venues. The licensee must comply with location requirements, machine maintenance standards, and equipment certification. - Land-Based Casino License
Permits the operation of a full-scale physical casino. Covers gaming tables (roulette, poker, blackjack, etc.) and slot machines, and typically involves requirements for security, control systems, and tax reporting. - Interactive Gaming License (Online Casino)
Allows offering internet-based gambling services, including slots, table games, live dealer games, and more. Requires servers, a certified Random Number Generator (RNG), data protection systems, and full AML compliance.
Licenses are issued by the Seychelles Gambling Authority (SGA).
Requirements for obtaining a gambling license
- The founding organization must be registered in the Seychelles. If the applicant already operates abroad, a new company must be incorporated locally or the HQ relocated.
- Servers supporting the online gambling portal must be located in the Seychelles.
- The gambling software must be certified.
Required documents & licensing costs
- Company charter, Certificate of Incorporation, and registration data from the commercial and tax registries.
- Game rules and user agreements for the gambling platform or land-based casino.
- Proof of software supplier certification and evidence of rights to develop gambling software.
- Information on authorized capital and financial statements.
- Proof of legal address, also listed on the website.
- Information about payment systems, payout ratios, and transaction transparency.
Process for obtaining a gambling license
The licensing process typically takes 1–3 months and includes several stages:
- Select the license type (one or multiple).
- Company registration: choose a name, appoint at least one director, minimum share capital $1.
- Prepare and submit the required documents.
- Issuance: after approval, a digital (or physical) license is issued. The site can then go live and accept players.
Our services
Law&Trust International provides legal and consulting support for businesses in the gambling sector, including assistance with obtaining a Seychelles gambling license.
- Consultation and business model analysis;
- Company incorporation services;
- Document preparation and submission to the SGA;
- Full legal support during due diligence review.
F.A.Q.
Does software involving NFTs or blockchain require additional authorization?
Currently, there is no explicit ban on the use of blockchain systems. However, future precedents may change the regulatory landscape. Contact us for up-to-date legal advice.
Can I obtain a Seychelles license if I was previously rejected by another regulator (e.g., Curaçao)?
Yes, but this may complicate the process. The SGA conducts a thorough due diligence process. If the previous rejection was due to fraud or AML violations, your chances are significantly reduced. If it was a technical rejection (e.g., missing documentation), it won’t necessarily hinder your application.
Do I have to open a bank account in the Seychelles, or can I use an EMI (electronic wallet)?
No, it is not mandatory to open a local bank account. Many licensed operators use EMIs (e.g., Payeer, AdvCash) or foreign banks (e.g., in Switzerland, Latvia, or the UAE). The key is to ensure legitimacy of funds and full AML compliance.
If I purchase a “ready-made” company with a license, do I need to re-register it in my name?
Yes, and this is more complex than it may seem. The SGA thoroughly vets new owners, just as it does initial applicants. Simply changing the director is not enough — a new due diligence process is required.
