Skip to main content
ROSTERDECKROSTERDECK
◈ Wiki
Learn the language of iGaming.

From RNG to GGR, KYC to RTP — our Wiki covers the terms, certifications, and industry standards that define B2B iGaming. Clear definitions, no fluff, no paywall.

United Kingdom License (UKGC)

Published: August 1, 2026Updated: July 7, 2026
United Kingdom (UKGC)

The UKGC License is widely considered the gold standard in iGaming regulation. It is mandatory for any operator wishing to offer gambling services to consumers in Great Britain. The license is known for its extremely strict compliance requirements, heavy focus on player protection, and significant penalties for non-compliance. The UKGC splits consumer-facing digital operations into distinct categories: Remote Casino (slots, table games) and Remote General Betting Standard (sportsbooks). Any B2B provider supplying, developing, or compiling gaming software, sportsbook betting platforms, or digital slot titles used by UK players must hold an independent B2B operating permit.

Regulatory Body United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC)
Jurisdiction Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales)
Legal Framework Gambling Act 2005 (as amended by the Gambling (Licensing and Advertising) Act 2014)
Valid In

Exclusively for offering services to consumers located in Great Britain

Not Valid In

Does not permit operations in other jurisdictions without respective local licenses

Recognition

Tier-1 license, highly trusted globally but strictly territorial in its primary validity

What This License Covers

Remote casino operators Sports betting operators Bingo and lottery operators Non-remote (land-based) operators

Financial Requirements

Micro / Startup Operators (GGY under £550k) Upfront Application Fee Approximately from €3 700 to €5 900
Mid-Tier Operators (GGY £5m – £25m) Upfront Application Fee Approximately from €13 500 to €22000
Large / Tier 1 Operators (GGY over £500m) Upfront Application Fee Approximately from €68 000
Micro/Startup Annual License Fee Approximately €3 500 to €8 500
Mid-Tier Operators Annual License Fee Approximately €15 000 to €45 000
Large / Tier 1 Annual License Fee Approximately €185 000
Gambling Software (Remote) License Annual Fee Approximately from €8 800 to €228 000
Gaming Machine Technical Full Annual Fee Approximately from €1 800 to €289 000
Remote Gaming Duty 21% (GGR) applies to all online casino platforms, slots, poker, and digital scratchcard
General Betting Duty 15% (GGR) applies to traditional online sportsbooks and peer-to-peer betting exchanges
Corporate Income Tax 25%
The UK Statutory Levy 1.1% (GGR) Online operators face an additional deduction evaluated against online GGR
Additional Costs Remote Gaming Duty (15-21% on GGR)
  • High compliance and legal costs
  • Contribution to the Responsible Gambling Trust

Special Requirements

  • Local Presence: No strict requirement for local incorporation, but must have a presence in the UK or a representative
  • Corporate Structure: Must be a fit and proper entity
  • Capital Requirements: Must demonstrate sufficient financial resources
  • Technical Requirements: Extremely high standards for fairness, security, and age verification
  • Compliance Obligations: Rigorous AML/KYC, strict responsible gambling measures, and detailed reporting
  • Background Checks: Comprehensive fit and proper tests for all key personnel and shareholders

Ideal Use Cases

  • Operators targeting the UK market: Which is one of the largest and most valuable in the world
  • Large, well-capitalized companies: Who can meet the high compliance burden
  • Brands seeking maximum trust: And credibility