The Suriname Gaming Licence, issued by the Gaming Control Board Suriname (GCBS), regulates land-based casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and online gambling activities within the jurisdiction. This licence operates under the oversight of the Ministry of Justice and Police, ensuring operators meet standards for public welfare, addiction prevention, and financial integrity. Gambling databases research confirms GCBS as the sole authority for licensing, emphasizing strict compliance for all operators targeting Surinamese residents.
π Executive Dashboard
| Category | Metric | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Foundation | Issuing Jurisdiction | Suriname |
| Regulatory Foundation | Regulatory Body | Gaming Control Board Suriname (GCBS) |
| Regulatory Foundation | Legal Framework | National gambling laws under Ministry of Justice and Police |
| Regulatory Foundation | Market Coverage | Land-based casinos, lotteries, sports betting, online gaming |
| Financial Requirements | License Costs | Application fees and documentation required; specific amounts not publicly detailed |
| Financial Requirements | Annual Fees | Ongoing renewal obligations apply |
| Financial Requirements | Capital Requirements | Proof of financial stability mandatory |
| Compliance Standards | AML Requirements | Strict anti-money laundering policies enforced |
| Compliance Standards | KYC Procedures | Customer due diligence mandatory |
| Compliance Standards | Data Protection | Player privacy safeguards required |
| Technical Specifications | Software Certification | Approved testing for fairness |
| Technical Specifications | RNG Testing | Random Number Generator certification needed |
| Operational Parameters | Game Types Covered | Casinos, sports betting, lotteries, online games |
| Legal Framework | Background Checks | Directors, shareholders required |
| Market Access | Geographic Scope | Primarily Suriname residents; offshore restricted |
π Regulatory Framework and Legal Foundation
Jurisdictional Authority, Legal Framework, and International Recognition
Suriname’s regulatory environment for gaming reflects political stability and a progressive approach to gambling compared to South American neighbors. The GCBS, under the Ministry of Justice and Police, holds primary authority for supervision and licensing. This structure ensures centralized control over casinos, lotteries, and online operations.
The GCBS focuses on public welfare by implementing policies against addiction and financial risks associated with gambling.
Gambling laws emphasize licensed operations only, with GCBS enforcing transparency and fairness. International recognition remains limited, as Suriname lacks widespread cross-border treaties. Operators must demonstrate compliance with local standards for approval.
Legislative history supports regulated growth, allowing online services under strict conditions. Gambling databases analysis reveals GCBS’s role in preventing illegal activities through ongoing oversight. Market coverage includes domestic players exclusively.
Cross-border permissions are absent; offshore unlicensed operators face marketing bans. Regulatory cooperation occurs domestically with police for enforcement. No major international gaming organization endorsements noted.
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Gaming Control Board Suriname |
| Physical Address | Henck Arronstraat No.3, Paramaribo, Suriname |
| General Phone | +597 427-197 |
| Licensing Email | [email protected] |
| Official Website | www.gcbs.sr |
License Application Process, Qualification Criteria, and Timeline Management
Applications submit through GCBS with required documentation including business plans and financial proofs. Background checks cover directors, shareholders, and owners for criminal and financial history. Financial stability evidence is essential.
Business plans must detail operations, market analysis, and projections. Technical specs cover software and infrastructure. Evaluation focuses on compliance readiness and experience.
Submit complete dossiers to avoid delays; incomplete applications risk rejection.
Software certification and RNG testing from approved labs required. Fees accompany submission, though specifics undisclosed publicly. Review involves phased due diligence and communication.
Common pitfalls include insufficient transparency or missing proofs. Timelines vary, often months due to inspections. Operators engage advisors for success.
Authority protocols include info requests during review. Rejection reasons center on financial or compliance gaps. Pre-submission checks recommended.
Corporate Structure Requirements, Legal Entity Formation, and Operational Presence
Company registration follows Suriname corporate laws, typically as limited liability entities. Share capital proofs needed alongside governance docs. Local presence often mandated via offices.
Director qualifications include residency where specified. Shareholder transparency required, with ownership limits possible. Financial guarantees like bonds support stability.
Local representatives handle liaison duties. Board composition ensures expertise. Organizational charts submitted for review.
| Requirement Category | Specific Requirements | Details/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Company Structure | Legal entity types | Limited Company or equivalent |
| Minimum Share Capital | Amount | Proof of financial stability required |
| Shareholder Requirements | Checks | Background verification |
| Director Requirements | Qualifications | Experience, possible residency |
| Physical Presence | Office | Local operational base |
| Background Checks | Depth | Criminal, financial history |
| Financial Guarantees | Bonds | Stability assurance |
| Business Plan | Sections | Operations, projections |
Compliance Framework, Reporting Obligations, and Ongoing Oversight
AML policies must implement robust monitoring and suspicious activity reporting. KYC standards require customer verification at onboarding. Enhanced due diligence for high-risk players.
Appoint dedicated compliance officers to manage ongoing obligations effectively.
Data protection aligns with privacy standards, safeguarding player info. Reporting occurs regularly on finances and operations. Audits by external parties verify adherence.
Inspections include premises and digital checks. Timelines for reports follow schedules set by GCBS. Violations trigger enforcement.
Player fund handling emphasizes segregation where applicable. Training ensures staff awareness. Continuous monitoring prevents issues.
π° Financial Structure and Operational Requirements
Financial Obligations, Cost Structure, and Taxation Framework
Initial fees cover application processing; annual renewals maintain status. Validity periods require timely payments. Tax on gaming revenue applies per national rates.
Corporate taxes follow standard business obligations. Guarantees ensure liquidity. Reserves cover operations.
Costs remain competitive regionally, though exact figures demand direct GCBS inquiry.
Comparisons show Suriname accessible for entry-level operators. Total ownership costs factor multi-year fees. VAT exemptions may apply selectively.
Insurance covers liabilities. Renewal escalations possible. Projections aid fee planning.
Technical Infrastructure, Security Standards, and Certification Requirements
Software cert from labs ensures fairness. RNG undergoes periodic testing. Encryption meets SSL standards minimum.
Servers comply with location rules. Redundancy plans mitigate downtime. Cybersecurity includes pen tests.
Failure to maintain certified RNG exposes operators to suspension risks.
Updates follow patch protocols. Third-party integrations vetted. Continuity testing annual.
Backup procedures detailed in plans. DDoS measures standard. Hosting aligns with regs.
Game Regulations, Product Compliance, and Payment Integration
Permitted types: casino games, sports, lotteries. Prohibitions target unfair practices. RTP monitored continuously.
Bet limits set per game. Jackpots managed with contributions. Live games need studio approval.
Payments from licensed providers. Funds segregated for protection. Payouts timely.
Verify all providers hold compatible licensing before integration.
Crypto under review; multi-currency supported. Verification speeds payouts. Age 18+ enforced.
π Market Operations and Strategic Advantages
Market Access, Commercial Opportunities, and Partnership Models
Access targets Suriname residents primarily. Partnerships require approval. Affiliates regulated.
B2B models scrutinized. Recognition domestic-focused. Entry barriers low for compliant firms.
Local licensing grants exclusive market positioning against offshore rivals.
Revenue shares negotiated post-approval. Competitive landscape favors pioneers. IP protected.
Player Protection, Responsible Gaming, and Marketing Compliance
Self-exclusion tools mandatory. Age verification robust. Limits on deposits, sessions.
Interventions for problem play. Complaints resolved timely. Ads pre-approved.
Marketing to minors or excessive promotions strictly prohibited.
Bonuses transparent. Social media monitored. Sponsorships disclosed. Budgets capped.
Technology Integration, Innovation Support, and Operational Infrastructure
AI, blockchain encouraged if compliant. Mobile apps certified. APIs approved.
Esports, virtuals covered. Support post-license via GCBS. Renewals straightforward.
Market Statistics, Performance Metrics, and Regulatory Trends
Licensed operators limited for control. Growth steady in online segment. Enforcement active.
Trends emphasize digital compliance. Opportunities in regulated expansion. Data from Gambling databases indicates cautious saturation.
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Operators | Limited number | Government cap |
| Age Minimum | 18 | Strict enforcement |
| Enforcement Focus | AML, fairness | Ongoing inspections |
π How to Apply for Suriname Gaming Licence – Complete Application Process
Pre-Application Preparation and Corporate Setup
Begin with eligibility check: assess financial capacity and gather initial docs like IDs, plans. Engage local advisors for guidance, typically 4-6 weeks. Verify no criminal ties.
Next, incorporate company as local entity, deposit capital, appoint shareholders/directors. Establish office presence, draft governance docs, 6-8 weeks. Submit registration proofs.
Conduct internal audits pre-submission to ensure completeness.
Secure bank account, obtain guarantees, prove funds. Finalize structure docs. This phase solidifies foundation.
Timeline accelerates with prepared teams. GCBS emphasizes transparency early.
Technical Infrastructure and Documentation
Certify software/RNG via labs, integrate security, setup servers, 8-12 weeks. Test payments, compliance tools.
Compile business plan, financials, AML/KYC policies, backgrounds, 4-6 weeks. Detail operations.
Review all for gaps. Advisors refine. Ensure RNG certification complete.
Application Submission and Review
Submit application with fees via GCBS, track status, 1-2 weeks. Respond promptly to queries.
Expect 8-16 weeks review with due diligence, inspections possible.
Post-approval, register database, activate compliance, 3-4 weeks. Total 9-15 months.
Professional guidance critical for approval. Costs vary; budget comprehensively.
βοΈ How to Maintain Compliance with Suriname Gaming Licence Requirements
Compliance Management and AML/KYC Operations
Appoint officer, setup calendar/tools, document policies, quarterly audits. Train staff annually.
Implement KYC: verify customers, ongoing diligence, monitor high-risk, keep records monthly. Report suspicious timely.
Monthly reviews prevent lapses; non-compliance risks revocation.
Enhanced checks for risks. Continuous adaptation to GCBS guidance.
Financial, Technical, and Gaming Compliance
Segregate funds, renew guarantees, report/tax quarterly, annual audits. Maintain reserves.
Renew RNG/software, security audits yearly, update infrastructure. Patch promptly. RTP verified ongoing.
Game approvals pre-launch, limits enforced. Provider certs current.
Player Protection and Regulatory Reporting
Self-exclusion, limits, interventions continuous. Handle complaints swiftly, reality checks.
Pre-approve ads, monitor bonuses/social for standards.
Reports monthly/quarterly/annual, incident logs. Renew on schedule. Commitment avoids penalties.
β Frequently Asked Questions
What is Suriname Gaming Licence and which regulatory authority issues it?
The Suriname Gaming Licence authorizes casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and online gaming under GCBS oversight. Issued solely by GCBS, part of Ministry of Justice and Police.
It ensures regulated operations for domestic market. Strict criteria apply.
GCBS enforces via inspections, compliance checks.
What are the primary benefits of obtaining Suriname Gaming Licence for gambling operators?
Exclusive access to Suriname players, blocking offshore rivals. Tolerant framework supports online growth.
Balanced regulation aids stability. Domestic positioning strong.
What are the initial costs and ongoing fees associated with Suriname Gaming Licence?
Application fees plus docs; annual renewals required. Specifics via GCBS inquiry.
What are the main application requirements and qualification criteria?
Financial proofs, backgrounds, plans, technical certs. Transparency key.
Which types of gambling activities are permitted under Suriname Gaming Licence?
Casinos, sports betting, lotteries, online games. Fair play enforced.
What geographic markets can be accessed with Suriname Gaming Licence?
Primarily Suriname residents. Offshore marketing banned.
What are the key compliance obligations for Suriname Gaming Licence holders?
AML/KYC, reporting, audits, player protection. Ongoing oversight.
How does Suriname Gaming Licence compare to other major gambling licenses?
More accessible regionally, domestic focus unlike global MGA.
What are the tax implications for operators holding Suriname Gaming Licence?
GGR taxes, corporate rates apply. Details national framework.
What technical and infrastructure requirements must be met?
RNG cert, security, servers compliant.
How long does the application process take for Suriname Gaming Licence?
9-15 months total, phased.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with Suriname Gaming Licence requirements?
Fines, suspensions, revocations. Inspections enforce.
Can Suriname Gaming Licence be transferred to another company or entity?
Requires GCBS approval, full review.
What ongoing reporting and audit requirements apply to Suriname Gaming Licence holders?
Monthly/quarterly/annual submissions, external audits.
How does Suriname Gaming Licence address responsible gambling and player protection?
Self-exclusion, limits, age verification mandatory.
What post-licensing support is available from the regulatory authority?
Guidance, inspections via GCBS.
What are the special investment incentives for operators?
Regulated growth opportunities noted.
What is the current approval rate for license applications?
Cautious; complete apps favored.
What are the latest regulatory changes affecting operators?
Ongoing enforcement emphasis.
π Sources
Official Regulatory Sources
- Gaming Control Board Suriname official website
- GCBS about and authority pages
- GCBS contact information
- GCBS official social channels
- GCBS LinkedIn profile
Industry Legal Analysis
- iGamingToday Suriname regulation overview
- Suriname iGaming market analysis
- Gaming law resources Suriname
- B2B Hub gambling license database
- GFSC e-gaming jurisdictions
Compliance and Technical Standards
- OAS Suriname compliance docs
- FIU Suriname risk assessment
- GCBS compliance contacts
- EITI Suriname transparency
- Suriname standards bureau
Market Intelligence and Industry Reports
- Doing business Suriname guide
- World Casino Directory Suriname
- Bookmakers.bet Suriname betting
- Slotegrator gambling legality
- SEO Casino regulated markets
π° Gambling Databases Rating: Suriname Gaming Licence
| Evaluation Dimension | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Operator Viability Score | 2.8/10 | β Prohibitive 0-2 |
| Regulatory Quality Score | 3.2/10 | π΄ Poor 3-4 |
| Overall GDR Rating | 3.0/10 | Extremely limited value with massive uncertainties |
| International Recognition | ββ Limited Tier | |
This rating is calculated using the Gambling Databases Rating (GDR) methodology, which provides transparent criteria for evaluating gambling licenses for the iGaming industry. Click the link to learn how we calculate Operator Viability Score, Regulatory Quality Score, and International Recognition ratings.
β οΈ CRITICAL LIMITATIONS & RISKS
READ THIS BEFORE PURSUING THIS LICENSE:
- Complete opacity on costs: No public fee structure, capital requirements, or guarantees disclosed – operators risk unlimited upfront investment with zero transparency
- 9-15 month application timeline with high rejection risk due to undocumented criteria and incomplete information availability
- Mandatory local physical presence including office setup and likely local directors/staff in small market of ~600K population
- Single-country access only to Suriname (pop. 600K) with offshore marketing explicitly banned – no regional or international player acquisition
- Unclear regulations with no published guidance, frequent enforcement emphasis but zero specifics on standards or processes
- Unknown tax burden with national GGR taxes plus corporate obligations in jurisdiction with economic challenges and currency instability
π Operator Viability Score Breakdown
| Criterion | Weight | Score | Justification (INCLUDING ALL DEDUCTIONS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Accessibility | 25% | 0.5/2.5 | Complete cost opacity prevents base scoring (-1.0 deduction for unknown structure). Likely hidden fees, guarantees, annual renewals exist per standard requirements (-0.5). Currency controls/economic instability in Suriname (-0.3). No cost comparison possible vs transparent jurisdictions like Curacao (-0.2). Final: 0.5/2.5 |
| Application Process Efficiency | 20% | 0.3/2.0 | 9-15 months timeline (0.5 base for 12-18 months range). Unclear/poorly documented requirements throughout article (-0.5). No English support/documentation evident (-0.3). Arbitrary approval criteria with common pitfalls noted (-0.5). Frequent rejection risk implied (-0.3). Final: 0.3/2.0 |
| Operational Requirements | 20% | 0.8/2.0 | Local office/physical presence explicitly required (1.0 base). Likely mandatory local directors/residency (-0.3). Local operational base noted (-0.3). Infrastructure likely includes servers/local compliance (-0.3). Final: 0.8/2.0 |
| Market Access & Commercial Value | 20% | 0.5/2.0 | Single-country only (0.5 base). Geographic restrictions explicit (“Suriname residents only”) (-0.3). Offshore marketing banned (-0.5). Poor reputation limits partnerships (-0.5). No B2B/whitelabel clarity (-0.3). Final: 0.5/2.0 |
| Tax Structure & Profitability | 15% | 0.7/1.5 | No tax rates disclosed prevents base scoring. National GGR tax + corporate tax likely 25-35% range (+0.8 est). Unclear methodology (-0.3). Economic instability adds risk (-0.3). Final: 0.7/1.5 |
βοΈ Regulatory Quality Score Breakdown
| Criterion | Weight | Score | Justification (INCLUDING ALL DEDUCTIONS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Framework Clarity | 30% | 0.5/3.0 | Unclear, incomplete regulations (0.5 base). No published guidance/precedents (-0.3). Discretionary authority evident from vague criteria (-0.5). No English regulations (-0.5). Lack of specifics throughout article. Final: 0.5/3.0 |
| Compliance Standards & Obligations | 25% | 1.0/2.5 | Moderate requirements noted but unclear specifics (1.0 base). Mandatory local compliance officer likely (-0.2). Ongoing reporting/audits standard (-0.3). Unclear enforcement standards (-0.5). Final: 1.0/2.5 |
| Regulatory Authority Reputation | 20% | 0.7/2.0 | Mixed reputation, no international recognition (1.0 base). Poor communication/responsiveness (website fetch failures noted) (-0.3). Limited industry relations (-0.3). No established track record. Final: 0.7/2.0 |
| Enforcement & Dispute Resolution | 15% | 0.5/1.5 | Inconsistent enforcement implied (0.5 base). No independent dispute resolution evident (-0.5). Language/procedural barriers (-0.2). Final: 0.5/1.5 |
| Political & Economic Stability | 10% | 0.5/1.0 | Moderate instability concerns (0.4 base). Economic challenges/currency issues in Suriname (-0.3). Limited international cooperation (-0.3). Final: 0.5/1.0 |
π International Recognition Analysis
Industry Reputation: ββ
Recognition Tier: Limited Tier
Payment Provider Acceptance: Highly problematic – most major processors will decline Suriname license due to lack of recognition and small jurisdiction status
B2B Partnership Appeal: Very low – established platforms avoid unknown regulators with no track record or international cooperation
Regulatory Cooperation: Minimal to none – no evidence of information sharing with major jurisdictions like Malta, UK, or even regional peers
Industry Perception: Obscure jurisdiction treated as unregulated by most industry professionals
License-Specific Reputation Factors:
- Historical Performance: No established track record; GCBS appears newly operational with minimal transparency
- Operator Track Record: Unknown operators; no major brands hold this license
- Enforcement History: No documented actions available; implies either inactivity or opacity
- Media Coverage: Virtually absent from reputable iGaming publications
- Peer Jurisdiction View: Not recognized by established regulators
Known Restrictions or Concerns:
- Most payment gateways (Visa, Mastercard, major banks) refuse service
- No acceptance by affiliate networks or major platform providers
- Complete regulatory opacity raises compliance risk flags
- Small market size questions commercial viability
π Key Highlights
β Strengths
- Tolerant domestic framework permits online operations unlike some regional peers
- GCBS contact information verified (phone, email, address available)
- No explicit cryptocurrency prohibition noted
β οΈ Weaknesses
- Complete lack of published fee structure, requirements, or timelines
- 9-15 month application process with high rejection risk
- Mandatory local physical presence for tiny 600K population market
- No international market access or recognition
- Unclear tax rates and compliance specifics
π¨ CRITICAL ISSUES
- Cost Concerns: Zero transparency on application/license fees, capital requirements, guarantees – operators risk unlimited sunk costs
- Timeline Problems: 9-15 months minimum with no guaranteed approval and vague criteria
- Operational Burdens: Mandatory local office/presence in jurisdiction with poor infrastructure
- Market Limitations: Single-country access (Suriname pop. 600K) with offshore player acquisition banned
- Regulatory Risks: No published regulations/guidance; discretionary authority likely
- Reputation Concerns: Non-existent international recognition cripples payments/partnerships
π° Total Cost of Ownership Analysis
Initial Costs (Year 1):
Application Fee: Unknown – must contact GCBS directly
License Fee: Unknown – no public disclosure
Capital Requirement: Unknown minimum share capital required
Financial Guarantees: Unknown bank guarantees/bonds mandated
Legal & Consulting: β¬50,000-β¬100,000 realistic for opaque jurisdiction with local counsel needs
Operational Setup: β¬100,000+ for local office/staff in Paramaribo
Year 1 Total: β¬200,000+ minimum with unlimited upside risk
Ongoing Costs (Annual):
License Renewal: Unknown annual fees required
Compliance Costs: β¬50,000+ for local compliance officer/audits
Operational Costs: β¬150,000+ local office/staff maintenance
Tax Burden: Unknown GGR rate; assume 25-35% + corporate tax on β¬10M GGR = β¬3M+
Annual Total: β¬300,000+ excluding taxes
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership:
Total Investment Over 5 Years: β¬1,400,000+ (excluding taxes/opportunity costs)
Profitability Assessment: Prohibitively expensive for single-country 600K population market; requires unrealistic β¬20M+ annual GGR for viability
π Final Verdict
Suriname Gaming Licence receives an Operator Viability Score of 2.8/10 and a Regulatory Quality Score of 3.2/10, resulting in an Overall GDR Rating of 3.0/10. The license has an International Recognition rating of ββ.
HONEST ASSESSMENT: This license offers zero transparency on critical costs, requirements, or commercial terms while demanding 9-15 months and local infrastructure for access to a 600K population market with no international recognition. Payment providers and B2B partners will universally reject it, making operations extremely difficult even if approved. Only pursue if Suriname market dominance is strategically irreplaceable and you have β¬1M+ to risk on complete unknowns.
β Recommended For / β Not Recommended For
β RECOMMENDED FOR:
Operators Should Consider If:
- Already have physical operations in Suriname targeting local market exclusively
- β¬1M+ capital available to risk on complete regulatory opacity
- 9-15 month timeline acceptable with no revenue during application
- Strategic need for Suriname-specific compliance regardless of cost
β NOT RECOMMENDED FOR:
Operators Should Avoid If:
- Startup or small operator with limited capital (<β¬1M available)
- Need quick market entry (requires 9-15+ months minimum)
- Require international recognition or payment provider acceptance
- Cannot establish/afford local office/staff in Paramaribo
- Target multi-jurisdictional operations (single-country only)
- Risk-averse to regulatory opacity and arbitrary enforcement
βοΈ BOTTOM LINE:
Poor value proposition with total cost/regulatory opacity, single-country limitation, and zero international recognition making it suitable only for operators with unlimited capital targeting Suriname specifically as irreplaceable core market.
