About the Antigua Jurisdiction

Antigua is an island located east of Puerto Rico in the West Indies. Together with the island of Barbuda, which is right beside Antigua, it is considered a part of British constitutional monarchy. Antigua was one of the first places in the world to license and regulate online gaming. In the past this popular tourist destination did not impose strict restrictions on gambling companies and it was risky to deposit money in casinos licensed in Antigua, however, recently Antigua finally started promoting fair gaming and player protection.

Antigua is governed by an appointed Governor General, who represents the British Monarchy. The Antigua government consists of three departments: legislative, judicial, and executive. The island has its own laws that include a relaxed view towards gambling. Antigua and Barbuda have been very proactive in regulating the offshore gaming. The Division of Gaming is the regulatory body under the Financial Services Regulatory Commission responsible for regulating offshore gaming industry in the jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda. The jurisdiction’s regulatory regime focuses on money laundering prevention, player protection and industry enhancement.

Antigua Licences

In the past it was easy to obtain a licence in this jurisdiction, but currently Antigua has tightened up licensing requirements. A company wishing to operate an online casino is required to be incorporated under the laws of Antigua and Barbuda. Once incorporated, a prospective licensee must then obtain a licence. In order to be considered for a licence a company must complete an application as well as a Business Entity Information Package and submit them to the Commission. Each key person, director, partner and chief executive officer of the company must also complete a Personal Information form. Finally, a non-refundable fee of $15,000 US dollars is to be submitted for conducting investigation and assessments of the applicant. If approved, the company must pay a $70,000 licensing fee plus 3% in annual taxes.

What is more, all gaming companies licensed in Antigua are required to establish clear internal procedures regarding “know your customer”, as well as have their accounts audited by external auditors who also have to certify their solvency, safety and soundness, player protection and compliance with the regulations of Antigua and Barbuda

Resolution of Complaints and Disputes

In case of any complaints involving companies operating out of Antigua and Barbuda, players can apply to the Directorate of Offshore Gaming, which will review the complaint and investigate it if necessary. The jurisdiction’s online complaints page is currently offline for maintenance, and players are asked to email any complaints to [email protected].

Summing up

Although in the past Antigua was not regarded as a top tier jurisdiction, recently it is becoming more and more interested in promoting fair gaming and player protection and it strives to tighten up licensing requirements.

For more information visit the Directorate of Offshore Gaming’s website at http://www.antiguagaming.gov.ag/

Online casinos with a licence granted by the Directorate of Offshore Gaming:

• Bodog Casino

• Casino Bellini

• Casino Del Rio

• Casino Tropez

• Europa Casino

• iWager Casino

• Linesmaker Casino

• Mapau Casino

• Players Only Casino

• Sport Fanatik Casino

• Sportsbook Casino

• Titan Casino

• Winner Casino