Cyprus as a gaming jurisdiction: Is a license required?
Cyprus has become a popular hub for gaming operators, especially those targeting the European and global markets. The island’s widespread reputation for regulatory integrity, robust infrastructure, and favorable business environment puts it in the spotlight among iGaming entrepreneurs. But an important question arises: is a license required to operate a gaming or betting company in Cyprus? Let’s demystify the Cyprus gaming landscape, focusing on what’s legal, what’s prohibited, and the practical steps to obtain a license. What is allowed and what is prohibited in Cyprus? The framework for gaming in Cyprus is tightly controlled and primarily governed by the Betting Law of 2012 and its amendments. The National Betting Authority (NBA) supervises all betting activity, both land-based and online, ensuring fairness and consumer safety. In Cyprus, the key distinction lies between “betting” and “gambling.” While sports betting—both in physical locations and online—is regulated and permitted...