One of the important factors when choosing which online casino to play is the establishment’s licence. A recognised casino licence from a legitimate gaming body means the platform is safe to play at. In other words, any foul play by the casino could mean legal ramifications for the operator.
It can be challenging for players to find which casino licence is the most reliable. For such things, it’s always good to check trustworthy sources. Also, to check whether that casino licence is from a reputable gaming body and whether that casino possesses that licence. Casinos and game providers alike need their own licences.
Regulations for online gambling differ from country to country. Some countries don’t allow online gambling, but players can still play on offshore casinos at their own risk. Many offshore operators hold what is called an international gaming licence.
Some international gambling jurisdictions provide licences to casinos regardless of the casinos’ geographical location. Some require the casino to have a physical presence within the licensing jurisdiction. These jurisdictions ensure that casinos adhere to local laws regarding gaming.
The Malta Gambling Authority (MGA)
Malta may be a small island, but it is incredibly influential in the gaming industry. Even those who don’t play at casinos likely know that the Malta Gambling Authority ranks number one as a gambling jurisdiction with the utmost credibility.
In addition to being reliable, casinos with MGA licence are also trustworthy. Those casinos went through a thorough and rigorous check-up procedure. A lot of detailed information had to be submitted, including owners, software, operations, game providers and finances. Once they pass those requirements, casinos can open their doors to players.
Players need to know that the MGA provides four different classes of licences to casinos. These licence classes refer to what types of games casinos offer to their players. Moreover, the MGA is open to any suggestions and complaints. This means that players can contact the MGA directly if they have issues regarding one of the casinos with their licence.
Even though it’s an expensive, long-lasting procedure, there are several benefits of obtaining this MGA licence, such as:
- Low tax rates
- Onshore status
- EU member
- Stable economic and political surroundings
- Expert workforce
- Enviable reputation
- Open doors to even greater success
Other Gambling Jurisdictions
The MGA is the most famous one, but it’s worth mentioning some other renewable gambling jurisdictions for online casinos across Europe.
So, regarding Europe, there are other trustworthy gambling jurisdictions. The first three jurisdictions are from the UK, and the rest are across Europe. They are:
- Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission
- Alderney Gambling Control Commission
- UK Gambling Commission
- Spillemyndigheden (Denmark)
- Gibraltar Regulatory Authority
- Gaming Board of Hungary
- Norwegian Gaming and Foundation Authority (Ministry of Culture)
- Inspectorate General on Gaming (Portugal)
- Office for Gaming Supervision – (Ministry of Finance) (Slovenia)
- National Gaming Board (Sweden)
There are also gambling jurisdictions from other continents, but that’s a theme for another article.
To sum up, a casino licence by a trustworthy gaming jurisdiction means a safer and more enjoyable environment for players. A casino without a licence is a fraud and should be avoided at any cost.
