Choosing acquirers by license: a 2026 jurisdictions map
Where your gaming license is recognized — and where it isn't — determines your acquiring options.
Operators routinely arrive with a Curaçao license and a fantasy of global Visa/Mastercard acquiring. The reality is more nuanced — and more workable than they think.
Tier-1 licenses
UK Gambling Commission, Malta MGA, Isle of Man GSC and Spelinspektionen unlock the broadest acquiring options in the EU and UK. Expect mandatory chargeback thresholds below 0.9% and strict marketing rules.
Tier-2 licenses
Curaçao, Kahnawake, Anjouan and Tobique are accepted by a smaller set of regulated acquirers, primarily for crypto on-ramps and selected APMs. Card acquiring is possible but requires established processing history.
Regional licenses
India (state-level), Australia (regulated verticals), Philippines PAGCOR and South Africa each have specific local acquiring routes. Aquablue8 maintains direct relationships in each market.