UKGC: Curaçao Licence Invalid for UK Market
FOI response clarifies that operators like 'Spincore' cannot legally target UK players without a specific British licence, regardless of offshore status.
A Freedom of Information disclosure from the UK Gambling Commission has confirmed that an online gambling licence from Curaçao is not valid for offering services in Great Britain. The regulator's response, prompted by a query about 'Spincore' casino, underscores the legal requirement for all operators targeting UK players to hold a UKGC licence.
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UKGC Confirms Offshore Licences Insufficient for British Gamblers
A Freedom of Information (FOI) disclosure from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has unequivocally stated that an online gambling licence from Curaçao is not valid for offering services in Great Britain. The regulator’s response underscores the legal requirement for all operators targeting UK players to hold a UKGC licence, regardless of any authorisations they may have in other jurisdictions.
Context: A Query on 'Spincore' Casino
The clarification came in response to a request dated 24 February 2026, concerning an online casino trading as “Spincore” and operated by InterStorm N.V. The query highlighted that the operator claimed to be incorporated in Curaçao and was in the process of applying for a local gaming licence, operating under a “transitional arrangement.”
The requester asked the UKGC to confirm three key points:
- Whether InterStorm N.V. or “Spincore” holds a UKGC licence.
- Whether a Curaçao-licensed operator can legally serve UK customers.
- Whether the operator's claims raised any regulatory concerns for the UKGC.
The Regulator's Response
The Gambling Commission provided clear answers to the first two questions, while explaining why it could not answer the third.
Licence Status
Regarding whether Spincore holds a UK licence, the UKGC did not provide a direct yes or no. Instead, it directed the requester to its public register of gambling businesses, stating it is the definitive, regularly updated source for all licensed operators. The clear implication is that if an operator does not appear on this register, it is not licensed to operate in Great Britain.
Validity of a Curaçao Licence
The Commission’s response on this point was unambiguous. It stated: “A licensed operator (or an operator applying for a license) based in Curaçao is not permitted to offer gambling services within the UK without a license from us.”
The regulator also issued a stark consumer warning, adding: “Any consumers who gamble with unlicensed operators are unlikely to receive the protections the Commission requires from its licensees.”
Regulatory Concerns
The UKGC declined to answer whether the operator's claims were a cause for concern. It explained that under the Freedom of Information Act, it is only required to provide recorded information, not the “views or opinions of public authorities.” As the question asked for an opinion, it was not considered a valid request for information under the Act.
Significance for UK Consumers
This disclosure serves as a critical reminder for UK players. The UKGC’s response confirms that claims of being licensed in jurisdictions like Curaçao have no legal standing in the British market. An operator must hold a licence issued specifically by the UK Gambling Commission to legally offer services to players in the UK.
Gambling with an unlicensed operator means players are not protected by the UK’s stringent regulations covering:
- Player fund protection: Ensuring customer money is kept separate and secure.
- Fairness and transparency: Verifying that games are fair and rules are clear.
- Responsible gambling: Implementing tools and support for players at risk of harm.
Consumers are strongly advised to always verify an operator’s status on the UKGC’s public register before depositing funds or placing bets.