iGN x 4H: Overview of Montenegro’s iGaming License

The iGN editorial team, in collaboration with 4H Agency experts, has analyzed Montenegro’s regulatory model, under which iGaming authorization is granted exclusively to companies operating licensed land-based establishments.

License Types and Fees

Casino (15 years) — $2.3M upfront + $123K annually + $92 monthly per slot machine
Betting shop (8 years) — $1.2M upfront + $923 monthly per location
Slot machine hall (8 years) — $3.7K upfront + $92 monthly per machine
iGaming — $12.3K monthly, available only to holders of land-based licenses, valid for the same term

Taxes and Terms

License duration: 8–15 years
15% GGR for casinos, iGaming operators, and slot machine halls
10% GGR for betting operators

Applicant Requirements

Only joint-stock or limited liability companies registered in Montenegro with gambling as their primary business activity
No criminal record for owners or management
No outstanding tax liabilities
Proof of financial solvency
Mandatory physical premises, equipment, cashier desk, and secure cash storage area
Connection to the national monitoring system and 24/7 video surveillance
Casinos must be located in 5-star hotels, meet minimum floor space requirements, and have at least 7 gaming tables
Betting shops must be in separate dedicated premises of a certain minimum size with video surveillance
Slot halls must operate at least 10 machines
iGaming requires full player identification; registration via physical points or online; and notifying the regulator about offered games

Market Highlights

Since 2025, updated legislation has increased transparency and strengthened oversight of the gambling sector
Unlicensed foreign operators are now banned and technically blocked
As of early 2025, active permits include: 3 land-based casinos, 18 betting operators, 26 slot halls, and 13 iGaming operators
The main driver of growth is the online segment
Prohibited: pyramid schemes, financial pyramids, betting on events involving clubs owned by the operator, and betting on political outcomes
Gambling is not allowed in free economic zones

According to 4H Agency, while high license costs and the land-based link still create notable barriers, gradual liberalization makes Montenegro increasingly appealing to international iGaming companies.