Casinos and gaming platforms not on GamStop operate outside UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulations and are instead licensed by offshore authorities. These licenses allow them to accept UK players while providing a wider range of games, bonuses, and payment options compared to UKGC-licensed casinos.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ What gaming licenses non-GamStop platforms hold
✅ How these licenses compare to UKGC regulation
✅ Which licenses are the most reputable & secure
✅ How to check if a non-GamStop casino is properly licensed
1. Why Are Non-GamStop Casinos Licensed Elsewhere?
Non-GamStop casinos operate without UKGC oversight, allowing them to:
🔹 Accept UK players who have self-excluded via GamStop
🔹 Offer bigger deposit bonuses & fewer restrictions on promotions
🔹 Provide higher withdrawal limits & access to cryptocurrency payments
🔹 Feature a wider selection of games, including international slots & live dealers
However, to operate legally, they must still hold a valid gaming license from another recognized jurisdiction.
2. Most Common Licenses for Non-GamStop Gaming Platforms
Here are the most widely used licenses by non-GamStop casinos:
| License | Issued By | Reputation & Security | Player Protection Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curaçao eGaming License | Curaçao Gaming Control Board | ✅ Well-known, used by most offshore casinos | ⚠️ Some disputes take longer to resolve |
| Anjouan Gaming License | Anjouan (Comoros) | ✅ Increasingly popular among new casinos | ⚠️ Fewer consumer protections than UKGC |
| Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) | Malta Gaming Authority | ✅✅ Highly reputable, strict regulations | ✅ Strong player protection policies |
| Costa Rica Gaming License | Costa Rican Government | ⚠️ Weaker oversight, but some legit operators use it | ⚠️ No formal regulatory body overseeing fairness |
| Kahnawake Gaming Commission | Kahnawake Mohawk Territory (Canada) | ✅ Well-regulated and player-friendly | ✅ Provides dispute resolution |
| Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission | Isle of Man Government | ✅✅ Very secure, strict financial regulations | ✅ High level of consumer protection |
🚀 Most Common? Curaçao & Anjouan Licenses
🔒 Most Secure? MGA & Isle of Man Licenses
⚠️ Least Regulated? Costa Rica (due to minimal government oversight)
3. How Do These Licenses Compare to UKGC Regulation?
While the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is considered one of the strictest regulators, offshore licenses still provide varying levels of security. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | UKGC (UK) | Curaçao (Offshore) | Malta (MGA) | Anjouan (Comoros) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Exclusion (GamStop Support) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Optional | ❌ No |
| Strict Responsible Gambling Policies | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Some | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Some |
| Fast Dispute Resolution | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Slower | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Slower |
| Allows Crypto Payments | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Higher Bonus & Withdrawal Limits | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
🔹 UKGC Pros: Strong consumer protection, regulated fairness, GamStop support
🔹 UKGC Cons: Low withdrawal limits, strict bonus restrictions, no crypto payments
🔹 Offshore Pros: Higher bonuses, flexible withdrawal limits, crypto support
🔹 Offshore Cons: Some licenses have weaker player protection policies
🚨 Key Takeaway: If security is your top priority, look for casinos with MGA or Isle of Man licenses. If you want higher bonuses and crypto support, Curaçao and Anjouan licenses are common choices.
4. How to Check If a Non-GamStop Casino is Properly Licensed
Before non GamStop casino playing, always verify the casino’s license by following these steps:
✅ Look for a License Number & Badge – Reputable casinos display their license details at the bottom of their website.
✅ Check the Licensing Authority’s Website – Curaçao, Malta, and other authorities allow you to verify the license number online.
✅ Read Player Reviews – Search for player complaints about unfair withdrawals, blocked accounts, or rigged games.
✅ Test Customer Support – A legitimate casino should have responsive support and clear terms & conditions.
✅ Avoid Unlicensed Casinos – If a site does not mention its license, consider it a red flag.
5. Which Licenses Offer the Best Protection for UK Players?
🔹 Best Overall: Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) & Isle of Man
- Strong security & consumer protection
- Regulated by the EU
- Clear dispute resolution process
🔹 Best for Crypto & Fast Payments: Curaçao & Anjouan
- Flexible rules for cryptocurrencies
- Faster payouts & fewer withdrawal limits
- Commonly used by high-roller casinos
🔹 Best for New Casinos: Anjouan (Comoros) & Kahnawake
- Lower licensing fees mean more casinos can get licensed
- New platforms often use these licenses
🚨 Avoid casinos that do not display a valid license – They may be operating without oversight, making it harder to recover funds in case of a dispute.
6. Conclusion – Which Licenses Are Best for Non-GamStop Players?
If you’re looking for a reliable gaming platform outside GamStop, choosing a properly licensed casino is essential. While Curaçao and Anjouan licenses are the most common, MGA and Isle of Man licenses offer better player protection.
🔒 Key Takeaways:
✅ Check the casino’s license before depositing money
✅ MGA & Isle of Man offer the best security & dispute resolution
✅ Curaçao & Anjouan provide more flexibility for crypto & high-rollers
✅ Always verify a license number on the official gaming authority’s website
Would you like recommendations for trusted non-GamStop casinos with secure licenses? Let me know! 🚀