Kahnawake Gaming License
NUR Legal assists businesses in navigating the full licensing process, ensuring compliance with KGC standards, and setting up your operations for long-term success.
ADVANTAGES
Global Recognition
The KGC is one of the oldest and most reputable regulators for online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms, providing strong international credibility.
Flexibility
The license covers multiple verticals, including casino, poker, sportsbook, and other interactive gaming formats, making it suitable for diverse operators.
Cost-Efficient Setup
Compared to many European jurisdictions, Kahnawake offers a competitive licensing fee structure and a straightforward application process.
0% Tax on GGR
Operators licensed in Kahnawake enjoy a favorable tax regime, with no direct gaming tax on revenues.
The KGC has been regulating online gaming for over 25 years, making it one of the most stable and trusted authorities worldwide. Many PSPs, banks, and financial institutions recognize Kahnawake licenses, supporting seamless integration of payment solutions.
WHY
NUR Legal blanks to start the Kahnawake Licensing
NB! These are not all and not the official stamped forms.
NUR Legal team fills and files the applications to the regulator
REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must meet a strict set of conditions to ensure transparency, financial integrity, and responsible operation. The KGC conducts in-depth due diligence on both the company and its stakeholders. The following requirements generally apply:
Corporate Requirements
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Incorporation of a company (can be domestic or foreign, but typically structured to align with KGC standards).
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Memorandum & Articles of Association or equivalent company constitution.
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Register of shareholders, directors, and ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs).
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Certificate of good standing (if the entity has been in existence for over one year).
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Corporate bank account and proof of sufficient operational capital.
Ownership & Management Requirements
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Detailed personal disclosure forms for all shareholders, directors, UBOs, and key function holders.
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Clean criminal record certificates from jurisdictions of residence for the past five years.
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Proof of professional experience in gaming, finance, technology, or management.
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Curriculum vitae (CV) of all key persons.
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Notarized copies of identification documents and proof of residential address.
Financial & Compliance Requirements
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Proof of funds: recent bank statements, audited financials, or a letter from a recognized financial institution.
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A detailed financial forecast for the first three years of operation.
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Evidence of liquidity to cover player balances and operational costs.
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AML/CFT compliance policies, including risk assessment, transaction monitoring, and reporting procedures.
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Player protection and responsible gaming policies, including self-exclusion measures, deposit limits, and underage prevention.
Technical & Operational Requirements
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Description of the gaming software platform, including supplier agreements and certifications (e.g., RNG certification).
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Internal control system (ICS) manual describing how games, payments, and security are managed.
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Cybersecurity measures, including data encryption, firewall policies, and disaster recovery procedures.
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Arrangements with Mohawk Internet Technologies (MIT) or another approved hosting facility in Kahnawake.
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Customer support structure and communication channels (email, live chat, phone).
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Fairness and transparency policies (e.g., independent audit of gaming software).
PROCEDURE
The licensing process with the Kahnawake Gaming Commission is structured and thorough. Each step must be carefully managed to avoid delays or rejections.
Step 1: Pre-Application Consultation
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Initial assessment of the applicant’s structure and eligibility.
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Strategic advice on corporate setup, hosting requirements, and compliance obligations.
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Identification of potential red flags (e.g., shareholder background issues).
Step 2: Company Formation & Structuring
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Incorporation of a legal entity (if the applicant does not already have a suitable corporate structure).
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Appointment of directors and compliance officers.
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Preparation of corporate governance documentation.
Step 3: Preparation of Application Documents
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Compilation of all required corporate, personal, financial, and technical documents.
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Drafting of AML/CFT policy, responsible gaming policy, and internal control system manual.
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Coordination with software providers to obtain necessary technical certifications.
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Arranging hosting infrastructure in Kahnawake (mandatory for licensing).
Step 4: Submission of Application to the KGC
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Formal filing of the application package, including fees and supporting documents.
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Acknowledgment of receipt from the Commission.
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Pay the government fee of 25,000 USD
Step 5: Due Diligence & Background Checks
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Comprehensive vetting of shareholders, UBOs, directors, and key personnel.
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Review of financial standing, business reputation, and source of funds.
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Examination of technical platform security and integrity.
Step 6: Initial License (Client Provider Authorization – CPA)
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If the application is satisfactory, the Commission grants a one-year CPA license.
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This period allows the applicant to commence operations under close supervision.
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The operator must demonstrate compliance with all KGC standards during this time.
Step 7: Compliance Monitoring During CPA Period
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Ongoing audits of financial transactions, AML/CFT controls, and player protection measures.
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Monitoring of server hosting and cybersecurity safeguards.
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Submission of regular operational reports to the KGC.
Step 8: Obtaining the License
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After successful completion of the CPA period, the applicant may apply for a full license.
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The KGC reviews operational history, compliance reports, and player dispute records.
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If satisfactory, the CPA is converted into a full Client Provider Authorization valid for multiple years, subject to renewal.
OUR OFFERS
NUR Legal provides an end-to-end service package to streamline the complex Kahnawake licensing process.
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For those still evaluating the regulatory landscape, we recommend getting a comprehensive Legal Opinion that assesses answers all of your questions in legal aspect before moving forward.
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For clients ready to proceed, we deliver a full-scope package that includes everything necessary to start your gambling business.
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Full package Licensing
Obtaining a Kahnawake license is complex, but our firm provides end-to-end legal and consulting support to streamline the journey.
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Setting up your company structure with vetted corporate advisors.
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Preparing and filing your Kahnawake license application and coordinating with the Kahnawake Gaming Commission.
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Drafting all required AML/KYC and responsible gaming policies to meet Kahnawake standards.
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Managing translation, notarization and certification of documents.
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Post-licensing services like license renewal, reporting, and liaison with Kahnawake regulators.
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Assistance with opening corporate bank accounts or crypto payment solutions, leveraging our partners experienced in Kahnawake-licensed operations.
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And more — full-spectrum Kahnawake licensing and operational compliance services
LEGAL FRAMEWORK
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC) operates under the Kahnawake Gaming Law (1996), enacted by the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake. This legal foundation gives the Commission the authority to regulate and license all forms of interactive gaming conducted from, or within, the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake. Over time, the framework has evolved into one of the most comprehensive systems for the oversight of online gaming.
The principal instruments include:
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Kahnawake Gaming Law (1996) – Establishes the Commission and grants it authority to regulate gaming activities within the territory.
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Regulations Concerning Interactive Gaming (1999, as amended) – The cornerstone regulations that set out the licensing procedures, obligations of operators, player protection requirements, and compliance standards.
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Regulations Concerning Licensing and Control of Interactive Gaming Service Providers – Governs the approval of software providers, hosting providers, and other technical partners.
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AML/CFT Guidelines – Establish strict requirements for anti-money laundering, counter-terrorist financing, customer due diligence, and reporting obligations.
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Responsible Gaming and Player Protection Guidelines – Ensure operators implement tools such as self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, age verification, and mechanisms for handling player complaints.
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Dispute Resolution Regulations – Provide a framework for resolving conflicts between players and licensed operators under the supervision of the KGC.
In summary, the Kahnawake legal framework combines flexibility for operators with strict oversight mechanisms, ensuring licensed companies operate responsibly, securely, and transparently. For applicants, it offers a credible, internationally recognized regulatory environment that balances opportunity with accountability.
OUR SERVICES
Ready to pursue a Kahnawake gambling license? Contact us for tailored legal guidance and a smooth licensing process in Kahnawake.
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At NUR Legal, our services encompass:
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Regulatory Consultation
Assessing the best jurisdiction and license type for your business.​
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Documentation Assistance
Preparing and reviewing all necessary documents.​
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Application Management
Handling the submission and liaison with regulatory bodies.​
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Post-Licensing Support
Ensuring ongoing compliance and addressing any regulatory updates.
