Gambling License in Panama
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Panama issues gambling licenses under Cabinet Decree No. 462, allowing companies incorporated locally to legally operate online gambling and direct services at international markets. The Panama gambling license covers casino games, sports betting, and poker — with no restrictions on serving players outside Panama.
Operational costs are low, taxation on foreign-sourced gambling revenue is minimal, and the licensing process is handled by the Panama Gaming Commission (Junta de Control de Juegos). For operators targeting a cost-effective, internationally recognized online gambling license, Panama remains one of the more practical jurisdictions outside the EU.
Why Operators Choose a Panama Gambling License
Panama License Cost & Fees
Application Fees
The Panama Gaming Commission (Junta de Control de Juegos) charges a non-refundable investigation fee of $5,000–$10,000, paid at submission. Amount varies based on application complexity and ownership structure.
Initial License Fee
A one-time state fee of $40,000 is due upon license approval under Cabinet Decree No. 462. This covers the first year of authorized international operations.
Ongoing Annual Costs
The annual license renewal fee is fixed at $20,000. From year two onward. Operators must also account for local legal and registered agent representation in Panama.
Revenue Taxation
A fixed 10% levy applies to Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR). Under Panama’s territorial tax system, 0% income tax applies to revenue earned from foreign players.
How to Get a iGambling License in Panama
Core Requirements & Documentation
Corporate Structure & Personnel
- Applicants must incorporate a local Panama company (Sociedad Anónima) with a minimum of three directors of any nationality.
- A local legal representative or resident director must be appointed as the official point of contact with the Junta de Control de Juegos.
- A dedicated compliance officer is mandatory to oversee all AML and KYC obligations under Panama’s Law 23 of 2015.
Documentation & Background Vetting
- Operators must provide technical certifications for server integrity, IT security, and data protection protocols.
- All gaming software and RNG systems must be independently tested and certified by recognized laboratories such as BMM Testlabs, GLI, or eCOGRA.
- A manual of internal control procedures must be submitted, detailing automated processes for customer verification
.and transaction monitoring.
Technical & Software Standards
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Operators must provide technical certifications for server integrity, IT security, and data protection protocols.
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All gaming software and RNG systems must be independently tested and certified by recognized international laboratories.
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A manual of internal control procedures must be submitted, detailing automated processes for customer verification.
Post-Licensing Support
Compliance Monitoring
We assist with regular internal audits and annual reports to keep your Panama gambling license in good standing. Our team helps you stay current with KYC/AML requirements and transaction monitoring obligations under the Junta de Control de Juegos (JCJ).
Legal & Tax Advisory
We provide ongoing guidance on Panamanian regulatory changes and territorial tax reporting under Panama’s territorial tax system. We help manage change-of-control notifications and provide support for contract drafting with local and international counterparties.
Banking & Payments
We support opening and maintaining international business accounts for gaming operators. We manage payment processor relationships and ensure AML compliance under Law 23 of 2015. Our team assists in securing settlement channels for both fiat and cryptocurrency flows.
Accounting & Audit
We handle bookkeeping and financial statements prepared to Panama gaming industry standards. We coordinate with certified Panamanian auditors to perform the mandatory annual reviews required by the JCJ.
Technical Troubleshooting
We manage ongoing software audits and integration of new certified gaming platforms. We maintain your IT security protocols and ensure RNG systems remain certified by accredited laboratories such as BMM Testlabs, GLI, or eCOGRA.
Marketing Compliance
We advise on permitted advertising channels and compliant promotional materials for international markets. This includes responsible gambling standards, geo-targeting restrictions, and player data privacy requirements under applicable jurisdiction rules.
What Operators Ask Before Applying:
Still have questions?
What types of online gambling does the Panama license cover?
The Panama gambling license allows you to operate all common forms of online gambling. This includes casino games, sports betting, poker, eSports, lotteries, bingo, horseracing, fantasy sports, Bitcoin casinos, and games of skill. With one license, you can offer multiple gaming products to international players.
Who can apply for a Panama gambling license?
Only companies registered in Panama as corporations under Law 32 of 1927 can apply. Your company must have at least three directors, but both shareholders and directors can be of any nationality. A local legal representative registered with the Junta de Control de Juegos is also required.
Can licensed operators accept players from Panama?
No, Panamanian law prohibits licensees from providing gambling services to Panamanian residents. All gaming activity must be targeted at international markets.
What are the main costs involved in obtaining and maintaining a Panama gambling license?
The state issues the license for a one-time fee of $40,000, with annual renewal at $20,000 from year two. Investigation fees paid to the Junta de Control de Juegos at submission range up to $10,000. A fixed 10% levy applies to gross gaming revenue (GGR).
How long does it take to get a Panama online gambling license?
Registering a Panamanian company usually takes up to 20 business days. Once your company and documents are ready, license processing by the Junta de Control de Juegos takes about 1 to 2 months.
What are the main compliance requirements for Panama gambling licensees?
License holders must maintain strong AML and KYC procedures under Panama’s Law 23 of 2015. You need to keep detailed transaction records, submit annual audits and financial statements, ensure proper game fairness, and respond to regulatory checks.
Is there any tax on gambling revenue earned outside Panama?
No, Panama applies a territorial tax system. Income earned from gaming activities outside Panama is not subject to Panamanian income tax, VAT, or withholding tax. However, there is a fixed 10% levy on gross gaming revenue.
Does Panama require servers or staff to be located locally?
No, there is no requirement for gaming servers or staff to be based in Panama. Operators have full flexibility on hosting infrastructure and technical setup location.
How long is the Panama gambling license valid?
The standard license is valid for 7 years and can be renewed by the Junta de Control de Juegos, with the maximum term reaching up to 20 years across renewal cycles.
What are common reasons for license application rejection or delay?
Applications are often delayed or rejected due to incomplete documentation, lack of a clear business plan, inadequate financial resources, or insufficient AML/KYC systems.
License Scope & Validity
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