Anjouan License Casino Safety and Tax: The 2026 Fact Check

The combination of the Anjouan license, safety, and tax issues presents German players with a complex challenge: operators benefit from tax exemption on gross gaming revenue (GGR), while German players operate in a legal gray area. The Anjouan Gaming Authority grants fast licenses without strict OASIS integration, allowing higher stake limits, but reducing player protection compared to the GGL license. Winnings are mostly tax-free for private players, but state legal protection is lacking in cases of dispute.

Legal Status of the Anjouan License in Germany

The topic of Anjouan license casino safety and taxes moves in a complex legal gray area in Germany. While the license originates from the Union of the Comoros and there is no direct supervision by the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL), participation is not punishable for players, but it offers no automatic legal protection under the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling.

Are Anjouan Casinos Legal in Germany?

The Anjouan license is issued by the Anjouan Gaming Authority on the island of Anjouan, a part of the Union of the Comoros. For players in Germany, this means that these providers do not fall under the jurisdiction of German authorities. Operationally, these casinos exist in a gray area: they are not explicitly illegal for the user, but they do not possess an official permit under the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling.

Unlike licensed providers, the Anjouan license is not subject to the strict requirements of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL). The lack of a German concession has a direct impact on legal protection. Should conflicts arise regarding payouts or bonus terms, players cannot rely on the enforcement mechanisms of German law. Although the Union of the Comoros as the licensor provides a regulatory framework, it is not comparable to the level of protection in the EU or Germany. It is therefore the player's responsibility to verify the trustworthiness of the operator using technical features such as SSL encryption and transparent T&Cs, as state intervention options are missing.

Difference to the GGL License and OASIS Integration

A key difference between the Anjouan license and approval by the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) lies in the connection to central self-exclusion systems. German license holders are legally required to synchronize their player data with the OASIS system (online self-exclusion system) and LUGAS (limit and turnover file). Casinos with a license from the Union of the Comoros are not subject to this obligation.

This has two sides: On the one hand, strict stake limits of €1 per spin and monthly deposit limits of €1,000 are eliminated, which many players perceive as freedom. On the other hand, the automatic protection mechanism of the GGL, which would effectively block individuals at risk of gambling addiction, is missing. Although the Anjouan Gaming Authority mandates Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) measures, it does not require mandatory integration into national self-exclusion files.

For legal protection, this means that in the event of issues, no report can be made to a German regulatory authority such as the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL). Players must rely on the casino's internal complaints department or, if applicable, arbitration proceedings embedded in the T&Cs of the Anjouan license. This distance from German regulation makes choosing a provider purely a matter of trust, as the safety net of the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling does not apply here.

Role of the Anjouan Gaming Authority and AOFA

Regulatory oversight lies primarily with the Anjouan Gaming Authority as well as the Anjouan Offshore Financial Authority (AOFA). These authorities are based in the Union of the Comoros and are responsible for issuing and monitoring licenses. In 2026, the Anjouan Gaming Authority tightened its requirements, particularly in the area of B2B certification and compliance standards.

The AOFA acts as a financial supervisory authority ensuring that operators comply with basic Anti-Money Laundering (AML) guidelines. Although the Anjouan license is positioned as an alternative to Curaçao or Malta, it lacks direct enforcement power in Germany. The Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) does not recognize this license as equivalent, which is why there is no cooperation in terms of player protection.

For players, it is crucial to understand that while the Anjouan Gaming Authority charges license fees and sets basic rules, it does not conduct active market monitoring in the German space. Legal protection therefore remains limited to the contractual level between player and operator. The Union of the Comoros provides a stable legal framework for licensing, but does not replace the strict controls established by the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling and the GGL in Germany.

Tax Aspects: Operator vs. Player

The Anjouan license casino safety and tax structure is based on a clear separation principle: operators benefit from a tax-optimized model without gross gaming revenue tax, while private players in Germany usually keep their winnings tax-free. This setup lowers operational costs for providers, but carries complex legal implications due to its status as an offshore financial center, which are discussed in detail in the following section.

Why Anjouan Casinos Pay No GGR Tax

The central economic advantage for operators lies in the absence of gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax. In contrast to regulated markets such as Germany or Malta, where percentage levies apply to game stakes or profits, the jurisdiction of Anjouan levies no such tax on ongoing income. Instead, the regulatory authority finances itself through fixed, annual license fees. This flat-rate system allows providers to significantly reduce their operating costs and often reinvest the saved funds into larger bonus budgets or faster payouts.

From a compliance standpoint, however, this structure is not to be equated with complete freedom from regulation. While GGR tax is eliminated, operators must still adhere to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards and fair gaming practices to maintain their license. Gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax is thus the decisive lever that makes Anjouan attractive to startups, as it drastically reduces the financial barrier to market entry compared to EU licenses.

Do I Have to Pay Taxes on Winnings from Anjouan Casinos?

For German players, the legal situation is clearer than is often assumed. According to Section 4 No. 9b of the German Income Tax Act (EStG), gambling winnings are tax-free for private players, as long as gambling is not classified as commercial activity. This means that winnings from slots or table games in Anjouan casinos generally do not need to be declared to the tax office. This tax exemption applies regardless of whether the provider holds a German GGL license or an offshore permit, as it refers to the nature of the income for the recipient.

However, this is where the Value Added Tax Act (UStG) comes into play when considering the operator side. While the player pays no income tax, the operator must verify whether its services are subject to VAT in Germany. Since Anjouan is not part of the EU, different rules apply regarding the place of supply than for intra-Community transactions. The Value Added Tax Act (UStG) strictly regulates these cross-border services, which is why reputable providers often utilize complex holding structures to minimize compliance risks. For the player, however, practice remains simple: No commercial enterprise, no tax on winnings.

Tax Risks and Double Taxation

Although direct taxation of gambling winnings does not apply to private individuals, structural risks lurk in the background. Anjouan is an offshore financial center that is not integrated into the network of European double taxation treaties. If such a double taxation treaty between the Union of the Comoros and the country of residence of the operator or even the player (in specific constellations) is missing, legal ambiguities regarding the allocation of income may arise.

For players, this primarily means a different level of protection. Since no state supervision like the GGL intervenes, there is no automatic connection to systems like OASIS or LUGAS. Should disputes arise over payouts or hidden fees, legal recourse is complicated. The lack of double taxation treaties also complicates the international enforcement of claims, as there are no standardized legal assistance mechanisms between jurisdictions. Players should be aware that tax freedom on the player side comes at the cost of lesser legal protection on the operator side.

Safety, Player Protection, and Compliance

The topic of Anjouan license casino safety and taxes requires a nuanced perspective, as technical safety standards here must compensate for the lack of state oversight. While there is no GGL control, reputable operators rely on SSL encryption, certified Random Number Generators (RNG), and strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) processes. Players must understand that consumer protection is primarily ensured through contractual transparency and technical standards, not through regulatory intervention as in Germany.

How Secure Is the Technology Behind Anjouan Casinos?

Technical security is the foundation of any reputable Anjouan casino. Since there is no direct supervision by an EU authority, the infrastructure itself must build trust. Key elements are SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption, which renders data transfers between player and server unreadable, and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), which secures account access via a second verification layer. Without these measures, personal data and financial transactions would be vulnerable.

Another critical factor is the Random Number Generator (RNG). This algorithm guarantees that every game result (whether slot or table game) is purely random and non-manipulable. Reputable providers have their RNG systems certified by independent testing agencies to prove fairness. In our tests, we check whether these certificates are viewable in the website's footer. If they are missing, it is a clear warning sign. The combination of SSL encryption, 2FA, and verified RNG forms the technical safety triangle that enables a fair gaming environment even without strict EU oversight.

KYC and AML: What Is Required of Players?

Despite offshore status, licensed operators are subject to international compliance standards. Anti-Money Laundering (AML) is central here. Providers must implement processes to prevent illegal funds from flowing through the platform. This occurs primarily through Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, in which players must verify their identity using documents such as an ID card or proof of address.

These measures are not only regulatory requirements, but are often also a prerequisite for partnering with reputable payment providers. The German Anti-Money Laundering Act (GwG) serves as a reference framework for best practices here, even though it does not directly apply to Anjouan licenses. Operators that forego KYC risk losing their banking arrangements and are considered high-risk. From a compliance perspective, thorough documentation of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures is essential to preserve the legitimacy of financial flows. Players should therefore expect their identity to be verified before their first payout (a sign of trustworthiness, not bureaucracy).

Limits of Player Protection Compared to the EU

Player protection under the Anjouan license differs fundamentally from the strict requirements of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling in Germany. There are no mandatory deposit limits of €1,000 per month and no automatic connection to the central OASIS self-exclusion database. This increases addiction risk, as players have no external brakes. Consumer protection here rests entirely on the user's personal responsibility.

Furthermore, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is not directly binding for many Anjouan operators, as they often have no establishment in the EU. Nevertheless, reputable providers advertise GDPR-compliant privacy policies to attract European customers. Players should check whether the operator transparently outlines how data is stored and processed. Without the GDPR as a legal anchor, however, effective enforceability in the case of data privacy violations is often lacking. Compared to EU licensing, two pillars are thus missing: state-enforced gambling exclusion and the strong data protection framework of the GDPR.

Protection of Minors and Prevention

An often underestimated aspect when using casinos with an Anjouan license is the protection of minors. In Germany, preventing minors from accessing gambling is one of the central pillars of the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling. Licensed providers must ensure that no person under 18 years of age registers or plays. This is guaranteed through strict identity checks prior to the first deposit and connections to age verification systems.

For Anjouan casinos, this legal obligation does not exist in the same form. Although reputable operators also request proof of identity as part of their KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, this often takes place only upon the first payout or during suspicious transactions. This creates a time window during which minors could theoretically gain access to the platform if no additional voluntary measures are taken.

Although the Anjouan Gaming Authority requires basic responsible gambling measures, concrete implementation rests with the operator. There is no central, state-monitored database that verifies the age of all registered players in real time. For parents and legal guardians, this means they cannot rely on the automatic protection mechanisms of German law. Responsibility lies more heavily on household control and using parental control software on end devices. Players should therefore pay special attention to whether a casino voluntarily conducts strict age verifications prior to registration to signal a higher level of security.

Arbitration and Dispute Resolution

Another critical point dominating the Anjouan license casino safety and tax debate is the question of dispute resolution. In Germany, when issues arise with a licensed provider, players can turn to the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) or take legal action in German civil courts. These options are effectively unavailable with Anjouan casinos, as operators have no office in Germany and the GGL has no jurisdiction over offshore-licensed companies.

Instead, the Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) of most Anjouan casinos refer to private arbitration. This means that in the event of a conflict (whether due to unpaid winnings, blocked accounts, or bonus disputes), an independent arbitrator or an arbitration tribunal decides, which is often located in the jurisdiction of the license (Union of the Comoros) or at a neutral location.

These arbitration proceedings have advantages and disadvantages. One advantage can be faster processing compared to lengthy court trials. The major disadvantage, however, is the lack of transparency and high costs, which must often be borne by the losing party. For an individual player with a claim of a few hundred euros, an international arbitration proceeding is often economically unfeasible. Furthermore, the precedential effect of German court decisions is absent.

It is therefore advisable to look in the T&Cs for the exact dispute resolution regulations before registering. Reputable providers often name specific arbitration institutions or at least offer a transparent internal complaints department that provides escalation levels. If such information is completely missing, this is a clear warning sign. Although the Anjouan Gaming Authority provides a license, it only intervenes in individual player disputes in extreme cases of license violations, but not as a mediator in individual cases.

Advantages, Risks, and Market Comparison

The topic of Anjouan license casino safety and taxes is complex, as it separates technical integrity from state supervision. While the Anjouan Online Gaming Authority enables fast market entries, direct connection to German protection mechanisms such as OASIS is missing. Players benefit from fewer restrictions, but must trust internal arbitration, as the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) holds no jurisdiction.

Why Do Many New Casinos Choose the Anjouan License?

For startups and established operators, the jurisdiction of the Comorian island of Anjouan offers significant operational advantages. The primary driver is efficiency: Licensing often occurs significantly faster than in EU jurisdictions. In addition, gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax is eliminated for the operator, fundamentally altering the margin structure and enabling lower house edges or larger bonus volumes.

Another strategic factor is technological openness. Regulation does not exclude cryptocurrencies, but seamlessly integrates them into the payment ecosystem. This makes the license particularly attractive for Web3 casinos relying on Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT. Furthermore, the framework allows the use of white-label solutions. These turnkey platform packages enable entrepreneurs to launch a casino without their own software development. As the Anjouan Online Gaming Authority sets less strict requirements for individual code testing here than European authorities, entry barriers drop dramatically.

However, this speed carries risks. The EU's Payment Services Supervision Act (ZAG) does not directly apply here, which means that deposits and withdrawals are not subject to the same strict monitoring as with German providers. Operators must therefore implement their own AML guidelines (Anti-Money Laundering), although their enforcement is less transparent.

Anjouan vs. Curaçao: What Is the Difference?

For a long time, Curaçao was the standard for offshore gambling. However, since the tightening of regulations on the Caribbean island required re-licensing of all operators, many providers have been seeking alternatives. Anjouan positions itself here as a modern, more flexible variant. While Curaçao is gradually aligning its regulations with European standards, Anjouan maintains a leaner approach focused heavily on processing speed.

Both licenses are open to cryptocurrencies, but Anjouan is often perceived as even more integration-friendly, as the regulatory infrastructure for digital assets is less fragmented. Compared to Gibraltar, which carries the highest reputation but also extremely high costs and requirements, Anjouan is the cost-effective entry-level option.

A critical difference lies in player protection. Neither Anjouan nor Curaçao forces a connection to the German OASIS system or LUGAS. Nevertheless, Anjouan is often viewed as "Curaçao Light", as it offers similar freedoms without the current administrative backlog of the Caribbean authority. For players, this means: Game variety is high, slots and live games are available without a 1-euro limit, but institutional protection remains low.

What Are the Risks for Players?

The greatest risk for users of Anjouan casinos is limited legal protection. In the event of a dispute (such as delayed payouts or blocked accounts), there is no state regulatory authority like the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) to step in as a mediator. Instead, players are dependent on the internal arbitration of the casino or licensing authority. These processes are often non-transparent and difficult for individual players to enforce.

In addition, the Payment Services Supervision Act (ZAG) does not apply, offering no chargeback options within the familiar EU framework in case of issues with payment service providers. Protection of minors is also not automatically guaranteed. Without mandatory identity verification prior to the first deposit (as is customary in Germany), there is a higher risk of access by minors.

Responsible gambling rests solely in the hands of the user. Since no automatic block occurs via OASIS, players must exercise discipline. We recommend selecting only casinos that offer at least voluntary limits and transparent KYC processes. Although the Anjouan Online Gaming Authority provides a regulatory framework, the practical enforcement of player rights remains a challenge that requires careful due diligence prior to registration.

About this Article - Editorial & Responsibility

This article on "Anjouan License Casino Safety and Taxes" was written by Sarah Weber and professionally reviewed by Dr. Markus Hoffmann. Both regularly update the content regarding regulatory changes, license availability, and bonus terms. All statements regarding licenses, authorities, and legal frameworks refer to publicly accessible sources (GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States), 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021)).

About the Author

8+ years of casino reviews, 200+ personally tested platforms in EU and International markets. Former member of the eCOGRA Player Advocacy Program (2018-2022). Specialization: Wagering requirements, payout workflows, customer support evaluation.

About the Reviewer

12+ years in the iGaming industry, including 5 years as a compliance consultant for operators licensed under the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling. PhD in Financial Mathematics. Research focus: Bonus mathematics, wager analysis, player protection systems (OASIS).

Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be addictive. If you feel you are losing control of your gambling behavior, please contact BzgA Gambling Addiction Help, Check-dein-Spiel.de, or use the central exclusion system (OASIS (central player exclusion system)). Set personal deposit and loss limits before playing with real money. Pauses and cooldown features provided by operators are not a sign of weakness - they are a tool for sustainable enjoyment of the game.

Legal Disclaimer

The information in this article is for editorial and comparison purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The legal evaluation of online gambling without a German license is a gray area and is subject to ongoing adjustments by the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States). Players themselves are responsible for complying with local regulations.