Our team at Manavia has put together this Isle of Man eGaming Licences FAQs to help make the process seem less daunting.

Why should I choose an Isle of Man OGRA licence?
An Isle of Man OGRA licence is highly regarded for its stringent regulatory standards, providing a reputable and trustworthy environment for online gambling operations.

What is the OGRA, and what does it stand for?
The OGRA stands for the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC)’s Online Gambling Regulation Act, the legislative framework governing online gambling in the jurisdiction.

What types of licences does the Isle of Man have?

• Full Licence: covers all types of activity such as sports, casino, and lottery.
• Sub Licence: allows operators to work exclusively with a full licence holder.
• Network Licence: the same as a Full Licence but also allows operators to accept players from operators licensed elsewhere without having to re-register players.
• Software Supplier (B2B) Licence: for the provision of software such as games or platforms. Enables inclusion in the Isle of Man Software Supplier Master List.
• White Label: full licence holders can offer White Label solutions which in itself do not require to be licensed separately.

A Full Licence can include other licence types at no extra cost as long as this is stated during the application. For example, a company may choose to obtain a Full Licence and carry out B2B, B2C, White Label and Sub Licence activities with it.

How do I apply for an Isle of Man licence?
The application process involves submitting detailed documentation to the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission, including business plans, financial information, and compliance procedures. Our team of experts will guide you through the whole process, provide necessary policies and frameworks, and work with you on completing the required paperwork as well as attending the hearing.

How long does it take to get an Isle of Man Licence?
An Isle of Man licence can usually be obtained in as little as four to six months. 12 weeks of this are reserved by the regulator for a review of thew application once it has been submitted.

What are taxes like?
The Isle of Man offers a very favourable tax environment, with no Corporation Tax and no Capital Gains Tax. Gambling Duty is based on gross gaming yield/profit and payable at the following rates per annum:

• On the first £20 million of profit, 1.5% duty is payable
• On the next £20 million of profit, 0.5% duty is payable
• On any amount in excess of the first £40 million profit, 0.1% duty is payable

How long is an Isle of Man licence valid?
OGRA licences are typically issued for five years, with the option for renewal upon meeting ongoing compliance standards.

How much does it cost?
Government related fees are as follows:

• Full Licence: £36,750 p.a.
• Network Licence: £52,500 p.a.
• Sub Licence: £5,250 p.a. (conditions apply)
• Software Supplier Licence: £36,750 p.a.
• Token/Blockchain Based Software Supplier Licence: £52,500 p.a.

All licence applications are subject to an application fee of £5,250, payable to the Isle of Man Government – with a new application required every five years. Fees for our services are always tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. We are happy to discuss this with you in more detail during a call. Please contact us to schedule a meeting.

What countries can I operate in with an Isle of Man licence?
While the license is recognised globally, operators must comply with the specific regulations of each jurisdiction they intend to operate in. Numerous pre-regulated markets can still be targeted with the licence, and we will be happy to advise you further about this during a call. 

Can I do crypto?
Yes, the Isle of Man is very crypto currency friendly, and a licence allows you to operate in fiat, crypto or both should you wish to do so.

What gambling activities can be licensed in the Isle of Man?
Isle of Man regulations allow for a lot of flexibility when it comes to the types of gambling permitted and one licence can cover all of the below:

• Casino games including slots
• Sportsbooks including exchanges
• Peer to Peer games including poker, mah-jong and bingo
• Esports betting platforms and fantasy sports
• Live dealer casinos
• Lottery including messengers and re-sellers
• Pari-mutuel wagering (pool betting)
• Financial betting

New models can also be accommodated subject to discussions with the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC).

Do I need an Isle of Man company?
Yes, part of the conditions to acquire a licence is to have a genuine presence on the Isle of Man. This means an Isle of Man company with two resident directors. A Designated Official, or in their absence a Operations Manager, also needs to be present on the island. We can assist with these requirements through our Managed Services, for example by incorporating the company for you and providing directors.

Can I get banking?
Part of the benefits of an Isle of Man presence and licence is the fact that on-island banking is available for licence holders. Off island option are also available and the creation of a separate entity elsewhere for this is not necessary.  

Do I need to live in the Isle of Man?
There is no requirement for the Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) or staff to live on the island, but the regulations require two resident directors to be here. We can provide these as part of our managed services. We are also happy to assist individuals wishing to move here.

What services do you provide?
Manavia offers a comprehensive portfolio of services that include:

• Multi-jurisdictional eGaming licensing (Isle of Man, Curacao, Philippines & others)
• Company administration, formation and structuring
• Legal advice (through our attached law firm MannBenham Advocates)
• Gambling consultancy
• Trust and wealth management
• Accounting, Tax and VAT services
• Banking and Payment provision
• GDPR & Data Protection advice
• Director & Key Role provision
• Business Process Outsourcing
• AML, CFT and General Compliance Consultancy

Manavia is here for you

We are here for you to talk through what you need, with years of experience and knowledge. Should you wish advice how to apply for an Isle of Man Gambling Licence, doing business on the Isle of Man or just wish to understand your options, please feel free to speak with us on +44 (0)1624 639350 or email us at [email protected].

Article “Isle of Man eGaming Licences FAQs” posted on 04 January 2024