Approximately 100,000 people live in the country, of which 97% live in Antigua.
However, it is still part of the Commonwealth of Nations and remains a constitutional monarchy.
The main goals of the Directorate are Money Laundering Prevention, Player Protection and Industry Enhancement.
Interactive Wagering Licence
This licence allows operators to open a sportsbook.
Within the sportsbook, operators can provide betting services to players.
app and Cost
There are strict conditions that companies need to fulfil to apply for either licence.
This $15,000 is non-refundable and needs to be submitted for either licence.
Once the first phase has been approved, the company must submit the Business Entity Information package.
After that, the company needs to submit the Personal Information form.
There are additional fees for the Key Person Licence, the Reserve Requirement, and the Monitoring System Fee.
Fees List
Obtaining a licence is quite dear, especially with the monitoring fees.
So why is Antigua such a hotspot for offshore companies?
The Directorate states that applications can get approval within 60 days of submitting the required documents.
In terms of obtaining a casino or sportsbook licence, that is extremely fast.
The other not-so-little advantage is the progressive tax laws in Antigua and Barbuda.
Highly Reliable
A casino must pay you what you win.
This means that any new content is always safe to play.
The nation has cracked down on these companies and set strict laws about money laundering and fraudulent activity.
Nowadays, any company running with the Preferential Seal is a fully legitimate business and safe to use.
Cons for Players
Operators regulated by the FSRC are safe and fair to play at.
Now let’s look at some of the cons for players.
This is due to fraudulent operations in the past and to the limited jurisdictions that recognise the licence.
Where the Licence is Recognised
Antigua and Barbuda is a white-listed jurisdiction for the UK.
This means that licencees can advertise their services to the UK market.
A company regulated by Antigua and Barbuda can operate in Kahnawake, and vice-versa.
Antigua and Barbuda licences are not recognised in the US.
Operators that advertise in Kahnawake or the UK cannot target US-based players.
In addition, residents of Antigua and Barbuda cannot gamble online.
Conclusion
Casinos and sportsbooks operating under the jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda are rare.