Curacao Internet Gaming Association: Licensing Gambling

Curacao is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea, just 64 kilometers off the coast of Venezuela in South America. Curacao has long been a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The latest data available show that this island has approximately 155,000 inhabitants with the official languages being Dutch, English, and the local Papiamentu dialect.

Although this island appears to have nothing to do with the world of Bitcoin gambling sites, it is very important for all members of the industry. This is because a large number of Crypto gambling operators have not only been licensed by the Curacao government but are also registered there. Due to the high demand from Bitcoin gambling sites seeking licensing, the governing authorities of this island created a specific committee responsible for issuing such permits: the Curacao Internet Gaming Association (CIGA).

One of the Oldest Licensing Bodies

Established in 1996, the Curacao Internet Gaming Association is one of the oldest licensing bodies in the crypto gambling market. Its single objective is to license, regulate, and monitor all online gambling operators, including Bitcoin gambling sites. CIGA is not the only body responsible for regulating gambling in Curacao; the Curacao Gaming Control Board is also present, holding sole responsibility for issuing licenses for land-based casinos.

Safety & Player Protection

CIGA has been notorious among gamblers' circles for its lackluster levels of protection. Monitoring of Bitcoin gambling sites is almost non-existent, with safety protocols rarely enforced. In terms of protection systems, only the absolute basic measures are prerequisites for obtaining a Curacao gaming license, with most safety measures being left entirely at the discretion of the operators. This lack of monitoring is the main reason why most operators with a Curacao gaming license are banned in many European and North American countries.

CIGA & Complaints

The Curacao Internet Gaming Association is partially responsible for investigating any claims made against Bitcoin gambling sites. A special contact form is available for players to submit complaints. Additionally, grievances against any crypto gambling operator can be communicated via email or phone.

CIGA Licensing Process

There are two types of licenses that Bitcoin gambling sites can choose from. Both provide the freedom for Crypto gambling operators to offer their services legally. The key difference between the master license and the sub-license is that the former can issue licenses to third-party Bitcoin gambling sites.

To obtain any type of license from Curacao, operators must have all their electronic equipment physically located on the island. Additionally, operators must disclose personal details of the business owner. Once all necessary documents are submitted, the licensing process typically takes no longer than six weeks. The total cost of obtaining a Curacao gaming license is approximately $34,000.

CIGA Certified Casinos

The Bitcoin gambling sites licensed and regulated by the Curacao Internet Gaming Association continue to play a prominent role in the global online casino industry. While safety concerns remain, many Crypto gambling operators still seek a Curacao gaming license due to its relatively straightforward process and low cost.