Almost every crypto casino shows a licence in its footer. What that licence is worth depends on who issued it, what the regulator actually checks, and whether it does anything when a player complains.
Why crypto casinos are licensed offshore
Countries with strict, local gambling rules, such as the UK, most of the EU and the US states with legal online gambling, rarely license casinos that take crypto. So most crypto casinos get licences from jurisdictions that do, and then block players from countries where they aren't allowed.
The licences you'll see most
Curaçao
The most common licence for crypto casinos. Curaçao reformed its system with a new gaming law and regulator, replacing the old model in which a few "master licence" holders issued sublicences to many operators. Under the new system, operators apply directly. When you see a Curaçao licence, look for a licence number you can check on the regulator's public register.
Anjouan (Union of Comoros)
An increasingly common choice, especially for newer crypto casinos. Anjouan licences are quick and relatively cheap to get. Player protection and complaint handling are generally considered limited compared with European regulators.
Malta (MGA), Isle of Man and others
These regulators set stricter rules on player funds, advertising and complaints. Few crypto-first casinos hold them, and those that do usually apply full ID checks.
"Company only" setups
Some casinos are run by companies registered in places that don't license online gambling at all. A company registration is not a gambling licence.
What a licence does and doesn't protect
A licence can mean:
- the operator passed some checks on ownership and money-laundering controls;
- games are supposed to be tested for fairness;
- there's an authority you can, in theory, complain to.
It usually doesn't mean:
- a guarantee that you get paid;
- an ombudsman who will rule on your dispute;
- protection of your balance if the casino goes bust.
That gap is why player reports matter. On WhatOBet, every casino's licence is shown with its source, and players can confirm payouts or file a public complaint the casino has to answer.
How to check a licence in two minutes
- Find the licence number and the company name in the casino's footer or terms.
- Open the regulator's own website (not a link from the casino) and search its public register.
- Check the casino's domain is listed under that licence.
- Make sure the company name in the terms matches the licence holder.
Red flags
- A licence logo with no number, or a number you can't find on the register.
- A licence that belongs to a different company or domain.
- Terms written for a different brand.
- No company name or address anywhere.
None of these prove a casino won't pay, but together they're a reason to look elsewhere. See also 9 signs a casino won't pay and our list of no KYC casinos with the ID rules each one states.