Kahnawake Gaming Commission license
One of the longest-standing online gaming regulators, operating from the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake in Quebec since 1996. The KGC authorizes operators, software providers and live studios hosted in Kahnawake, and licenses their key persons.
- Best for
- North America-facing international operators
- Who can be licensed
- B2C operators and B2B suppliers
- Markets it serves
- Canada, Worldwide
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC) has licensed online gaming from the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake in Quebec since 1996. It issues a Client Provider Authorization for B2C operators, a Casino Software Provider Authorization for suppliers, live dealer studio authorizations and Key Person Licenses. Licensed systems must be hosted at the Kahnawake data center. Authorizations run five years after a six-month preliminary permit; plan for 4–6 months. A Kahnawake license does not allow serving Ontario or Alberta players.
- Status
- Licensing open
- Regulator
- Kahnawake Gaming Commission
- Legal basis
- Kahnawake Gaming Law and the Regulations Concerning Interactive Gaming
- Status checked
- October 16, 2026
KGC authorizations
Every authorization is tied to hosting in Kahnawake, and every key person holds a personal license.
Client Provider Authorization (CPA)
For B2C operators offering casino, sports betting or poker from the Kahnawake hosting facility. Five-year term after a six-month preliminary permit.
Casino Software Provider Authorization (CSPA)
For B2B software providers hosting game software in Kahnawake and supplying CPA holders.
Live Dealer Studio Authorization (LDSA)
For live dealer studios operating in the Territory.
Key Person License (KPL)
For directors and managers in key roles at CPA and CSPA holders; the first step in every application.
Inter-Jurisdictional Authorization (IJA)
For businesses licensed in another regulated jurisdiction that bring equipment or staff into Kahnawake.
What the KGC expects
Company and directors
A company in any acceptable jurisdiction, with directors’ CVs and three years of annual reports where available.
Key persons
A KGC-licensed key person and a compliance officer acceptable to the KGC.
Hosting
Hosting with the licensed data center in Kahnawake.
Games
RNG games tested by approved independent laboratories.
Control system
A Schedule I Control System Submission, audited during the preliminary period.
Players
Complaint handling, the self-exclusion list, AML/CFT program and responsible gaming.
How the application runs
Plan for 4–6 months: preparation, a KGC review of 4–8 weeks, then a six-month preliminary permit before the definitive authorization.
- 1Key personsKey person license applications and due diligence.
- 2ApplicationAuthorization application with corporate, financial and business plan documents.
- 3HostingHosting arranged with the Kahnawake data center.
- 4KGC reviewReview of about 4–8 weeks, then a six-month preliminary permit.
- 5Definitive authorizationControl system audit completed; five-year authorization issued.
Ongoing obligations
- Compliance with the KGC Regulations Concerning Interactive Gaming
- KGC seal and real-time license validator on the website
- Player complaint handling and the self-exclusion list
- AML/CFT program; annual IT audit for crypto operators
- Annual fees and key person renewals
Where a Kahnawake license does not reach
| Market | Rule |
|---|---|
| United States | Do not target US players, including New Jersey, unless licensed in that state (2016 agreement with the New Jersey DGE) |
| Ontario and Alberta | Served only by operators registered in those provinces |
| Other markets with local licensing | Require their own license |
Frequently asked questions
Which authorization do I need?
A Client Provider Authorization for B2C operators, a Casino Software Provider Authorization for software suppliers, and a Key Person License for each key individual.
Where must servers be?
Licensed systems are hosted at the Kahnawake data center operated by Mohawk Internet Technologies.
How long is the authorization valid?
Five years, after a six-month preliminary permit during which the control system is audited.
Can a Kahnawake licensee serve Ontario?
No. Ontario players are served only by operators registered with the AGCO.
Can I target US players?
No, unless you are licensed in the state concerned. KGC licensees must not target US players, including New Jersey.
Is there a gaming tax?
Kahnawake does not levy a tax on gaming revenue; KGC fees apply, and you remain taxed where your company is resident.
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