11/10/25
The choice between Curacao’s newly reformed regime and Nevis’s fresh licensing framework is now a pivotal decision for iGaming operators-each offers a distinct regulatory path and market perception.
💡 Key Development at a Glance
Nevis passed the Nevis Online Gaming Bill 2025 on 29 April, creating a dedicated regulatory authority and formal license categories for B2C and B2B operations.
Meanwhile, Curacao’s new Landsverordening op de Kansspelen (LOK)-the National Ordinance on Games of Chance entered into force on 24 December 2024, centralising oversight under the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) and replacing the old master/sub-license model.
🧾 Regulatory Foundations
Nevis’s new law mandates the formation or re-registration of operators under Nevis jurisdiction, full disclosure of beneficial ownership, AML and consumer protection protocols, and adherence to a published Code of Conduct, including segregation of player funds and compliance audits.
Curacao, under LOK, abolished the prior National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard (LBH) and now requires all online gaming providers to obtain licenses from CGA. The regime includes stricter substance requirements, local entity control, and renewed AML/CTF reporting obligations.
⚖️ Comparative Analysis & Risks
Curacao’s transition includes a provisional license extension: Green Seal B2C and B2B operators may continue under provisional status until 24 December 2025 to ease the shift to full compliance.
Importantly, from 1 July 2025, the CGA clarified that any gaming activity “in or from” Curacao by a local entity must be under a valid CGA license; reliance on foreign licenses via local shell structures is now considered unlawful.
Nevis presents itself as a “Tier-1 iGaming license” in promotions, emphasising speed, transparency, and modern infrastructure.
🌐 Impacts & Use Cases
Operators currently in Curacao’s older regime may find the extension period useful to prepare new documentation, upgrade technical systems, or restructure ownership.
New entrants targeting multiple jurisdictions may view Nevis as a compelling alternative: a unified license covering casinos, sportsbooks, crypto, and B2B services.
🔍 Conclusion
In summary, the gaming licensing landscape in 2025 is evolving rapidly. Curacao has restructured under LOK and tightened compliance, while Nevis has introduced a fresh regulatory regime with ambition for international standing. Neither path is risk-free: Curacao must prove its enforcement credibility, and Nevis must deliver on promises in practice.
If your team is considering a jurisdictional shift, planning a license application, or assessing regulatory risk, NUR Legal can provide informed guidance tailored to your business. Visit us at NUR-Legal.com or contact us directly at info@nur-legal.com
Kätrin Särap