Launching an online gambling business is easier when your permit comes from a regulator that understands technology and moves quickly. A Kahnawake Gaming License issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC) lets you conduct interactive gaming legally while paying no gambling-specific tax. Cybetic supplies turnkey platforms and guides every license application – get a Kahnawake permit and start accepting players within three months.
Overview of Kahnawake Gambling License
The Kahnawake Territory sits just outside Montréal; the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake passed the Kahnawake Gaming Law in 1996, making the territory of Kahnawake one of the first jurisdictions to regulate real-money iGaming. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission is known internationally as a licensing and regulating authority that licenses and regulates more than 250 gaming sites, including online casinos, sportsbooks and poker rooms.
The commission’s Regulations concerning Interactive Gaming (the “regulations concerning interactive gaming”) govern all gaming activities within and from the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake and require every operator to host servers at Mohawk Internet Technologies, the sole data-centre operator holding the single Interactive Gaming License (IGL).
Types of Kahnawake Online Gaming Licenses
Before you pick software or payment rails, review the types of licenses the KGC offers and what each license means for your gaming business.
Interactive Gaming License (IGL)
The Interactive Gaming License represents the exclusive hosting authorization for the Mohawk Territory. This license allows the operator to manage data centers and provide internet services to other gaming operators within and from the Mohawk territory.
The IGL holder maintains the technical infrastructure that supports all interactive gaming activities in the jurisdiction. This exclusive arrangement ensures quality control and compliance with KGC standards.
Client Provider Authorization (CPA)
The Client Provider Authorization serves as the primary license for operators seeking to offer online gambling services directly to players. This license is ideal for business-to-consumer (B2C) operations across various gaming verticals.
Key Person License (KPL)
The Key Person License is required for individuals holding significant managerial roles within KGC-licensed operations. This license ensures that personnel in critical positions meet the integrity and experience standards expected by the commission.
Live Dealer Studio Authorization (LDSA)
The Live Dealer Studio Authorization enables operators to establish and operate live dealer gaming facilities within Kahnawake. This specialized license supports the growing demand for authentic casino experiences in online gambling.
Client Software Provider Authorization (CSPA)
The Client Software Provider Authorization serves operators providing gaming software and technology solutions to other licensed operators. This business-to-business (B2B) license enables software providers to offer their solutions within the Kahnawake ecosystem
Application Process for Kahnawake Gaming License
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission has established a structured application process designed to thoroughly evaluate applicants’ suitability for gaming operations.
Phase 1: Company Registration and Key Personnel
The first step involves registering your company and appointing a key person responsible for operations and regulatory compliance. This individual must demonstrate impeccable reputation and relevant gaming industry experience.
Phase 2: Documentation Preparation
Applicants must compile comprehensive documentation including:
- Certified passport copies for all beneficial owners
- Criminal background certificates for key person applicants
- Financial statements and bank references
- Gaming software documentation and RNG certificates
- Detailed business plan and operational procedures
Phase 3: Fee Payment and Application Submission
The application fee varies by license type, with CPA applications requiring $15,000-$25,000 initial payment. Annual fees must also be paid upfront, though these are refundable if the application is rejected.
Phase 4: KGC Review and Investigation
The gaming commission assigns a compliance officer to oversee the application review. This phase includes thorough investigation of applicant credentials and business operations.
Phase 5: Preliminary License Issuance
Successful applicants receive a 6-month preliminary license that allows limited operations while the KGC conducts final compliance verification.
Phase 6: Full License Approval
Upon satisfactory completion of the preliminary period, the KGC issues the full license valid for five years.
Costs Associated with Kahnawake Gaming License
| Permit | First-year outlay (USD) | Annual after Year 1 | Renewal (every 5 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPA | 40 000 | 20 000 + domain surcharges | 5 000 |
| KPL | 5 000 | 1 000 | 2 500 |
| LDSA | 25 000 | 10 000 | 5 000 |
For budgeting, the headline license cost is less than half of Curaçao’s multi-domain schedule, yet provides stronger oversight.
Taxes for Kahnawake Gambling License Holders
The KGC imposes no gaming duty, VAT or withholding on GGR; the regulator finances supervision through fixed fees only. Canadian corporate tax can apply if you locate management in Québec, but most licensed operators hold parent entities abroad and simply pay local taxes there. The absence of gaming taxes makes Kahnawake one of the most cost-effective jurisdictions for gambling operators seeking to maximize their operational efficiency.
Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC) Overview
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission – a gaming authority and gaming regulatory body – licenses and regulates remote betting within and from the Mohawk land. KGC standards cover AML, data security and responsible and fair gaming practices.
The KGC operates under comprehensive gaming law that addresses all aspects of interactive gaming operations. The commission’s regulations concerning interactive gaming ensure player protection while supporting business innovation.
Advantages of Licensing in Kahnawake
Kahnawake is viewed as one of the most attractive hubs for startups because the framework balances risk control with speed. A gambling license implies responsible conduct; here it also implies responsible and fair gaming by design.
- Zero gambling tax keeps margins high.
- Five-year tenure limits admin strain.
- Fast approval lets you enter the online gambling market ahead of rivals.
- Solid reputation improves payment-service-provider acceptance; the license implies responsible and fair oversight that banks like to see.
- More than 50 operations from Kahnawake reach 80+ jurisdictions today.
For many founders, the license is ideal when compared with Malta or the Isle of Man.
Obtain Your License Through Us
Cybetic has guided dozens of teams in obtaining a license in Kahnawake. We draft all forms, integrate our certified platform, and liaise with auditors. Get a Kahnawake permit while we handle hosting, payments, and ongoing reporting.
FAQs
The KGC typically processes applications within 6-8 weeks from submission of complete documentation. Including the preliminary license period, the total process takes approximately 6 months.
Yes, the Kahnawake license is recognized in most jurisdictions where online gambling is permitted. However, operators must comply with local laws in target markets.
Yes, license holders must maintain compliance with KGC standards, submit regular reports, and undergo periodic audits. The KGC reserves the right to review and potentially revoke licenses for non-compliance.
The KGC issues a 6-month preliminary license that allows limited operations while conducting final compliance verification. Operators must display the KGC logo and comply with all regulatory requirements during this period.
