The European iGaming industry is a complex landscape of regulations that vary significantly across jurisdictions. While most discussions focus on B2C (Business-to-Consumer) licenses, B2B (Business-to-Business) iGaming licensing is equally crucial for software providers, game developers, and platform suppliers operating in the European market. Some EU countries require a B2B license, while others recognize licenses issued by other jurisdictions. This article explores which EU countries mandate B2B iGaming licenses, their specific requirements, and which countries have a system of mutual recognition or allow foreign-licensed providers to operate.
Key points:
- B2B Licensing is Mandatory in Several EU Jurisdictions – Countries like Malta, Sweden, Greece, Romania, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany require B2B iGaming providers to obtain a local license before supplying gaming software or platforms to licensed operators.
- Some Countries Recognize Foreign Licenses or Require Certification – Nations such as Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Portugal do not mandate a specific B2B license but require providers to meet technical and regulatory compliance standards to operate legally.
- Regulatory Compliance is Essential for Market Expansion – To successfully enter the European iGaming market, B2B providers must stay updated on licensing requirements, jurisdictional recognition policies, and compliance frameworks to avoid penalties and maximize business opportunities.
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B2B iGaming Licenses in the EU: Requirements & Recognized Jurisdictions
EU Countries That Require a B2B iGaming License
Several EU jurisdictions have established a regulatory framework that mandates B2B iGaming providers to obtain a local license before supplying services to operators in the market. Here is a detailed overview of each country’s requirements.
Malta
Malta, one of the most reputable iGaming hubs, requires all B2B providers to hold a Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) B2B license. This license allows providers to offer gaming software, platforms, and services to MGA-licensed operators and other regulated markets that recognize the MGA license. The MGA license is considered a benchmark for regulatory compliance and is recognized by various international jurisdictions. The application process involves due diligence, financial audits, and adherence to technical standards.
Sweden
Since 2023, Sweden has enforced a B2B licensing regime under the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen). Any company supplying gaming software to Swedish-licensed operators must hold a B2B gaming software license. The licensing process requires software providers to demonstrate financial stability, technical compliance, and adherence to responsible gaming measures. Additionally, licensed B2B operators must undergo continuous monitoring and reporting to ensure regulatory compliance.
Greece
Greece’s Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC) mandates that all gaming software providers obtain a B2B license to supply games and platforms to licensed operators in Greece. The licensing process includes a detailed background check, financial assessments, and certification of gaming products. The Greek regulatory framework is strict, requiring transparency in business operations and full compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) laws.
Romania
The Romanian National Gambling Office (ONJN) requires software and platform providers to obtain a Class 2 B2B license before offering their products to licensed Romanian operators. The licensing process involves submitting business documentation, financial guarantees, and proof of compliance with technical and security standards. Romania’s regulatory framework is considered robust, ensuring only compliant and reputable providers operate in the market.
Belgium
Belgium has strict regulations, requiring suppliers to hold a B2B license issued by the Belgian Gaming Commission (BGC) to operate within the country. The licensing process is thorough, including assessments of financial integrity, software certification, and compliance with responsible gaming policies. Belgium enforces strict penalties for non-compliance, making it essential for B2B providers to adhere to all regulatory requirements.
The Netherlands
Under the Dutch Remote Gambling Act, software and platform providers that supply their services to locally licensed operators must obtain a B2B license from the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA). The licensing process requires adherence to stringent technical standards, responsible gaming measures, and transparency in business operations. The KSA actively monitors licensed providers to ensure ongoing compliance with Dutch gambling laws.
Germany
Germany enforces a licensing system through the Glücksspielbehörde (GGL), requiring game developers and software suppliers to register and obtain approval before working with German-licensed operators. The German regulatory framework is one of the strictest in Europe, focusing heavily on consumer protection, responsible gaming, and anti-money laundering compliance. B2B providers must undergo rigorous scrutiny before obtaining approval.
EU Countries That Recognize Other Jurisdictions’ Licenses
While some countries require their own local B2B licenses, others recognize B2B licenses from other jurisdictions, especially those with established regulatory frameworks. Below is an overview of how different countries approach B2B licensing recognition.
United Kingdom (before Brexit, still relevant for mutual recognition)
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) does not require a separate B2B license for software providers if they are already licensed in other respected jurisdictions such as Malta or the Isle of Man. However, since Brexit, UK-based operators typically require direct supplier approvals. The UKGC has a strong regulatory framework emphasizing fairness, transparency, and player protection, making it a preferred jurisdiction for many providers.
Italy
Italy does not enforce a specific B2B licensing framework. Instead, software providers can operate if their games or platforms are certified by an approved testing laboratory and comply with Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM) requirements. Certification ensures compliance with fairness, security, and responsible gaming regulations, allowing providers to operate within the Italian market.
Spain
Spain does not have a distinct B2B licensing scheme but requires that games and platforms meet the regulatory and technical standards set by the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ). The DGOJ focuses on ensuring gaming fairness, security, and responsible gambling practices. B2B providers must comply with Spain’s certification and reporting requirements to supply software to licensed operators.
Denmark
Denmark’s Spillemyndigheden does not require a B2B-specific license but requires suppliers to be certified and compliant with Danish gaming laws. The Danish regulatory framework emphasizes transparency, anti-money laundering compliance, and responsible gaming measures. B2B providers must meet technical and security standards to operate in the Danish market.
Portugal
Portugal allows software providers to work with licensed operators as long as their products meet the technical compliance standards set by the Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ). The SRIJ requires all gaming software to undergo rigorous testing and certification to ensure compliance with fairness and security regulations. While no specific B2B license is required, strict adherence to local regulations is mandatory.
Conclusion
B2B iGaming licensing in the EU remains a fragmented regulatory issue, with some countries requiring explicit local licensing while others recognize foreign licenses or simply enforce compliance through certification. For B2B providers looking to expand in the EU, securing licenses in Malta, Sweden, Greece, Romania, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany is crucial. However, in countries like Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Portugal, obtaining specific B2B licensing is not mandatory, but compliance with local standards is essential.
As the EU regulatory environment continues to evolve, B2B iGaming companies should monitor changes to ensure they remain compliant and maximize their market reach within the European gaming ecosystem. Understanding the licensing requirements and mutual recognition frameworks is key to successful expansion and long-term growth in the European iGaming industry.