Antigua Leisure and Gaming Association

The Antigua Online Gaming Association (AOGA), also known as the Antigua Leisure and Gaming Association (ALGA), is a body formed by online gambling operators licensed in Antigua and Barbuda. Its primary mission is to advocate for the industry, protecting it from potentially harmful public policies and fostering an environment for growth, innovation, and reinvestment within the Antiguan gaming sector. It works to improve the relationship between gaming companies and local regulators.

Online gambling in Antigua and Barbuda is primarily regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Commission's (FSRC) Division of Gaming. This body is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the offshore gaming industry within the jurisdiction, including the issuance of licenses. Antigua and Barbuda was one of the first jurisdictions globally to license and regulate online gaming, dating back to 1994. The regulatory framework includes strict adherence to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) requirements, player protection measures, and a commitment to industry enhancement. Licensed operators are required to have a physical presence and their primary servers located in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Antiguan authorities issue two main types of licenses for online gambling. An "Interactive Gaming License" is required for operations offering casino-style games, such as online casinos, poker rooms, roulette, slot machines, video slots, and lotteries. An "Interactive Wagering License" is needed for businesses focused on betting activities, including sports betting, horse racing, esports, and fantasy sports. It's important to note that if an operation intends to offer both casino and betting products, both types of licenses must be obtained separately. Each license is typically valid for one year.

To obtain an online gambling license in Antigua and Barbuda, applicants must undergo a thorough due diligence process. This includes providing detailed company information such as legal name, structure, ownership, and registered address. A comprehensive business plan, proof of financial stability, and biographical data for all key personnel are also mandatory. Applicants must demonstrate capital availability, typically by holding a significant financial reserve to protect players' funds. Additionally, proposals for control systems, anti-money laundering measures, and player protection policies, including preventing underage gaming and addressing problem gambling, must be submitted. All gaming software and systems are subject to technical evaluation to ensure reliability and fair play, and the primary server for operations must be located within Antigua and Barbuda.

Holding an online gambling license from Antigua and Barbuda offers several benefits. The jurisdiction has a long-standing reputation as a reliable and stable regulatory environment for online gaming, being one of the first to issue such licenses. This global recognition can expand a licensee's potential customer base. Antigua and Barbuda has a favorable tax regime, with certain international businesses not being subject to income tax or VAT on gambling activities, though specific annual fees and a gross income tax on net wins are applicable. The rigorous licensing process and ongoing regulatory oversight also contribute to maintaining a high level of integrity and trust in the operations of licensed entities. Furthermore, the commitment to responsible gaming and player protection, including the establishment of a gaming addiction research fund, enhances the overall ethical standing of the jurisdiction.