The Caribbean island of Nevis has officially entered the global iGaming stage with the passage of new legislation enabling a comprehensive online gaming licensing regime.
Regulations are currently being finalized, and the jurisdiction is positioning itself as a serious, stable, and highly attractive option for operators seeking a Tier-1 gaming license.
According to documents received by AGBrief, the Nevis Online Gaming License will soon be open for business, and stakeholders are already referring to it as the new ‘gold standard’ in offshore gaming regulation, a term previously claimed by jurisdictions such as Malta or the Isle of Man.
With the legal foundation already in place, the regulatory framework is expected to roll out in the coming weeks. Leadership on the island has made it clear that this initiative is here to stay, with strong governmental backing and a strategic vision to make Nevis a premier destination for online gambling operations.
With a responsive gaming authority, transparent processes, and a focus on compliance with international standards, Nevis is making a bold entrance onto the scene – one that promises a stable, efficient, and credible path to licensing.
The license itself appears robust and comprehensive. The B2C license allows operators to run various gaming verticals including casino, poker, betting, and lotteries. On the B2B side, the framework caters to software and platform providers, affiliate marketers, KYC vendors, and payment service providers. All entities must establish a local Nevis Business Corporation (IBC) under the Nevis Business Corporation Ordinance.
The license is valid for one year and costs EUR28,000 ($32,000) annually, covering up to two operational URLs. Licensees may add up to 40 additional qualified domains at an extra cost. However, all URLs must be owned and operated by the license holder. Sublicensing is prohibited, and white label arrangements require separate licenses and specific approval.
The licensing process is designed to be clear and manageable. It includes a full application and due diligence process, “fit and proper” checks on directors, shareholders, and ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs), and thorough AML and compliance vetting. Operators must submit a business plan, proof of domain ownership, compliance policies, game testing certifications (where applicable), and various financial disclosures.
The total initial first year cost for this license, including legal formation, license application management, compliance officer appointment, and all mandatory reporting structures, will likely be in the EUR40,000 to EUR50,000 ($45,500 to $57,000) range, with ongoing annual costs projected to be in a similar range, including all recurring fees for license renewal, compliance, and local representation. As always with these types of licenses, much of the cost depends on of the process is done in-house, or if external services are engaged. Either way, the pricing appears attractive enough for established and startup companies alike, who are often put off by the high entry costs of other, mostly European jurisdictions.
Importantly, Nevis emphasizes its adherence to international financial and regulatory standards. The jurisdiction is fully compliant with both FATF and OECD guidelines and is not listed on any black or gray lists. Existing AML and KYC laws are firmly in place and must be followed by all licensees, further reinforcing Nevis’ commitment to integrity and global best practices.
The new framework is being rolled out by a gaming authority that has made responsiveness and transparency top priorities. With clear guidance, predictable processes, and dedicated support, Nevis is presenting itself as a credible, long-term player in the online gaming space.
As the global iGaming industry continues to seek out stable and innovative jurisdictions, Nevis is opening its doors with confidence. The message is clear: the island is open for business, the framework is built to last, and this Caribbean contender is ready to compete with the best. Once the regulations have been implemented, all eyes will be on the island to see if it can deliver what the market needs.
