Gambling License

Do you want to offer games of chance on Bonaire? Then you need a gambling license. With this license, the government ensures safe and fair gambling. You do not need a license for small-scale games of chance. However, you must report these to the Public Entity of Bonaire.

What does this product or service mean?

What should you pay attention to?

You may only offer games of chance with a valid gambling license. Gambling without a license is prohibited and punishable by law.

A gambling license is official authorization from the Public Entity of Bonaire. With this license, you are permitted to offer games of chance.

There are various forms of games of chance on Bonaire, such as:

casinos in hotels
sports betting
lotteries
small-scale games of chance such as bingo and bon kuné

Even small-scale lottery operators need a license or must file a report. The license is personal and may not be transferred to anyone else.

Gaming License Fee
The holder of a casino license must file a return for the gaming license fee every three (3) months.
This fee is 1.5% of the gross revenue.
You must pay this amount no later than the 15th day following each three (3) month period.
You must submit the return and proof of payment via email.

When can you apply for this?

To obtain a gambling license, you must, among other things:

comply with the rules governing games of chance
ensure fair and safe gambling
take measures to combat gambling addiction
prevent crimes such as fraud and money laundering

Casinos may only offer games of chance in designated areas within hotels.

How do you apply for this?

You apply for the gambling license with the Public Entity of Bonaire.
The government reviews your application and verifies that you comply with all regulations.
Once approved, you will receive the license and may begin offering games of chance.

How long does it take?

Processing an application can take several weeks. This depends on whether your application is complete.

Do you disagree with the decision?

If you disagree with a decision, you may file an objection.
The decision will specify how and within what timeframe you can do so.
After filing an objection, you may, if necessary, file an appeal.

What do we do with your personal data?

When you submit an application or report, the Public Entity of Bonaire needs your personal data. The Public Entity of Bonaire handles your data with care.

The BES Personal Data Protection Act specifies how the Public Entity of Bonaire must do this.

The most important rules are:

The Public Entity of Bonaire only requests data that is necessary for processing your application or report.
They record and process your data securely, confidentially, and with care
Your data will only be used for the application or report, or for something directly related to it.
Your data will not be retained longer than necessary for the application or report.
Other organizations will only receive your data if required by law.
You may ask how your data is being used and what happens to it.