Curacao’s gambling authority has confirmed how operators will be charged under the fully implemented Landsverordening op de Kansspelen LOK regime, clarifying application, licence and supervisory fees following the abolition of the old master-licence structure.
Under the updated framework, the application fee remains approximately €4,592. Annual licence and supervisory fees also continue, though billing cycles have been adjusted to reflect the transition into the new system.
The Curaçao Gaming Control Board said the first invoicing period under LOK will run on a pro-rata six-month basis. This transitional measure is designed to ease operators into the standard annual payment cycle that will apply going forward.
From master licences to direct oversight
The confirmation comes after Curaçao formally dismantled its historic master-licence model. Under that system, sub-licences were issued via private master licence holders, with relatively limited central oversight.
LOK introduced direct licensing by the regulator, alongside enhanced due diligence, stricter compliance monitoring and revised supervisory controls. The updated fee structure reflects that shift toward a more centralised regulatory architecture.
Transitional billing approach
Instead of immediately charging a full annual amount upon implementation, the regulator opted for a half-year billing period. This pro-rata approach is intended to synchronise all licensees within a unified annual cycle without creating abrupt financial pressure during the transition.
After the initial six-month period, operators will move into standard yearly invoicing under the LOK schedule.
Cost clarity during regulatory overhaul
While the headline application fee remains unchanged, the confirmation provides needed clarity for operators navigating the new regime. Curaçao has signalled that although the structure of oversight has evolved, the fee policy aims to remain predictable and transparent.
As the LOK system beds in, financial certainty around licensing costs forms part of the broader effort to reposition Curaçao as a more structured and compliance-focused jurisdiction in the international iGaming landscape.