So, you’re curious about how to register an online casino in the Philippines?
You’re not alone. With the steady rise of online gaming and the booming popularity of platforms like JILI Games, more people are exploring how to start their own casino websites legally. But where do you even begin? Is it complicated? How much does it cost? What are the actual steps?
If these questions are spinning in your head—you’re in the right place.
This guide is for everyday people, aspiring entrepreneurs, or even experienced business owners who want to understand what it really takes to set up an online casino in the Philippines.
Let’s break it down in plain, no-BS terms.
Step 1: Understand the Legal Framework
First things first—you can’t just launch a casino site overnight and start accepting bets. In the Philippines, online casinos are regulated by government bodies like PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) and CEZA (Cagayan Economic Zone Authority).
If you’re targeting players outside the Philippines, you’ll need a POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator) license through PAGCOR. But if your site will serve local players, you’ll have to go through a different set of rules and get licensed as a domestic gaming operator.
Step 2: Register a Business in the Philippines
Now that you’ve decided on your target market, it’s time to make your business official.
You’ll need to:
Register a company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
Get a business permit
Open a corporate bank account
Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
Most importantly, your business must be physically based in the Philippines. This means you need an actual office address and staff working locally.
Step 3: Prepare for the License Application
Here’s where things start to get serious. To move forward with licensing, you’ll need to show that you’re financially capable and compliant with regulations. That includes:
A solid business plan
Proof of capitalization (this could be USD $250,000 or more depending on license type)
Clean background checks for company directors
A dedicated compliance officer
Anti-money laundering and responsible gaming policies
Regulators won’t issue a license unless they believe your operation is trustworthy and secure.
Step 4: Choose a Reliable Gaming Software Provider
Even if you’re not building games from scratch, your online casino needs a solid backend to function. Many new operators partner with trusted providers like JILI Games, BGaming, or Microgaming to handle the gaming platform and tech stack.
When choosing a provider, look for:
Mobile-optimized games
SSL security
Easy integration with payment systems
Game fairness certifications
Step 5: Submit Your Application and Get Approved
Once everything’s ready—your business is set up, your documents are complete, and your platform is built—it’s time to officially apply for the license.
The approval process can take weeks or even months depending on your setup and how fast you can respond to regulator questions. After that, you’ll go through a final testing phase to make sure everything meets industry standards.
Once approved, you’re good to go live.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to register an online casino in the Philippines isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about building a responsible, compliant business that can operate legally and successfully. It takes time, effort, and a fair amount of investment, but if you’re passionate about online gaming and ready to do things the right way, it can be incredibly rewarding.
So whether you’re a fan of JILI games or looking to launch your own branded casino site, just know this: the opportunity is real—but so is the responsibility.
If you’re serious about taking the next step, don’t go it alone. Reach out to a legal consultant who specializes in iGaming in the Philippines. It’s the smartest move you can make on this journey.
