UK Gambling Commission

The Gambling Commission's task list includes

• Ensuring that all operators conduct their business in compliance with the requirements of the 2005 Gambling Act.
• Inspect license holders and review all of their financial activities.
• Making recommendations for changes based on the results of research.
• Removal or suspension of gaming licenses if necessary.
• Impose fines on licensees if they are not complying with the regulatory requirements.
• Working with law enforcement agencies to identify and combat illegal gambling.

Types of gambling licenses

Any provider wishing to offer gambling services in the UK needs a license from the UK Gambling Commission. Since it is a regulated market, other licenses from outside are not recognized here. The UK Gambling Commission has a variety of licenses, which are divided into different subject areas. A distinction is made between certain types of games. All of the licenses offered to differ in terms of the details that apply to each specific category. The following licenses are available:

• Casino license
• Bingo license
• Licenses for sports betting and betting in general
• Lottery license

Requirements for obtaining a license

Applicants must have a valid address in the United Kingdom to receive correspondence. First of all, a police clearance certificate must be submitted and information about any previous convictions must be given. At the same time, information about the application will be provided, explaining the background of the applicant in detail. Furthermore, a business plan must be presented that outlines all planned areas of activity. Several background checks are carried out by the UKGC including:

• Identity verification
• Ownership
• Financial foundations
• Righteousness
• Competence and responsibility
• Criminal history

Approval Authorities

The UKGC licensing authorities are responsible for issuing licenses and concessions. These can relate to both online business and the local market. This includes, for example, checking slot machines in bars and clubs and smaller local lotteries or the like.

Payer protection and responsible gambling

When it comes to responsible gambling, the UK Gambling Commission is one of the toughest regulators out there. Player protection is one of the elements upon which the UKGC is particularly strict. The UK has its own register for problem gamblers. If you opt to self-exclude from an online casino due to a gambling addiction, for example, you’ll be protected in all other casinos under this license as well. 

Furthermore, operators are required to follow strict procedures before they can welcome back any previously self-excluded players. In addition to this, online casinos need to provide a variety of gambling limits for their players. 

Dispute resolutions

In the event of a disagreement between the player and the operator, a UK Ombudsman acts as an intermediary between the two parties on behalf of the UK Gambling Commission. They take this task very seriously. Player protection is very important and is subject to very strict guidelines. If the license requirements are violated, online casinos are facing massive fines and, in the worst case, even the loss of the license.