MGA (Malta Gaming Authority) – Introduction
You’ve probably seen the MGA mentioned a lot while researching online casinos not part of Gamstop. It stands for the Malta Gaming Authority. Many casinos and other types of gambling brands choose to apply for a licence in that area. And they do this because of the clout that these licences have.
Lot’s of countries have ignored the state of their online gambling laws for so long. And now it’s just easier for them to let the MGA deal with all the legalities. It makes life a lot simpler for governments and ensures some continuity between countries in a common bloc like the EU, for example.
History of MGA
Throughout the mid to late 90s, the online gambling niche began to take off in a big way. At first, it was just a couple of games here and there. But it soon became clear that it was going to become bigger than anyone ever expected.
Some countries buried their heads in the sand, and many still do. But one tiny island in the Med saw the opportunity to organise the industry in such a way that could make it beneficial for everybody. Players could enjoy the safety of operator regulation, the local government could collect plenty of taxes and gambling sites could build a stronger reputation.
This was back in 2001. And at the time, it was only intended to deal with internal gambling affairs in Malta. But they began to catch the eye of other countries that had lagged behind when gambling began to take off. As a result, the MGA expanded to become the prefered licencing authority for many different nations.
The expansion not only increased safety for players in countries that lacked any clear gambling laws but also gave the Maltese economy a huge boost. Online gambling related revenues now total 12% of the country’s GDP.
MGA is one of the largest gambling authorities
Thanks to the quick thinking of the Maltese government, the MGA has now cemented its place as the leading gambling regulatory body in Europe and other areas around the world. Any sites that present this trustworthy licence are safe places to play. And this gives millions of gambling fans peace of mind whenever they sign up for a new account.
Malta casinos and Gamstop
The Gamstop scheme only applies to gambling sites that operate in the UK. Although, it is possible that a brand can have licences for both the UKGC and MGA jurisdictions. But when dealing with clients who live outside the UK, then the Gamstop restrictions don’t apply.
Can I play at Malta casinos if I self excluded via Gamstop?
The bottom line is that UK players are not supposed to access Malta casinos not on Gamstop that are based outside the UK borders. And this is regardless of the Gamstop scheme. Some players, for whatever reason, decide to go elsewhere for their gambling fun. That’s their choice, but we can’t endorse that.
Alternatives to MGA sites not on Gamstop
Are Malta casinos part of Gamstop?
Is the MGA license safe for players?
Despite the fact that the MGA acts as a regulator for thousands of sites around the world. They aren’t the only place where casinos can get a licence. There are several popular places that provide the same services. But the level of regulation may well differ in some of the lesser-known areas.
It is better to play at a site that offers some form of protection rather than none at all. If you choose to send your money to a casino that has no regulatory control, then you really are taking a shot in the dark. And nobody will be there to help you if your cash goes missing.
Gambling has had a chequered past to deal with. And it’s for that reason that regulation has become a necessary aspect of the industry. But until laws are passed on a global scale, you’ll continue to see licensing splintered throughout many different places.
Curacao licensed casinos
This tiny island in the Dutch Caribbean is a well-known place for casino operators to seek a licence. There are some spectacular tax breaks in the region and registration is perhaps less stringent than the MGA.
You won’t find the big-name brands hanging out here. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some top places to play. Our best advice is to stick to recommendations from review sites like ours that have a relationship with these companies. This way, you will know if the casino is reputable or not.
Panama licensed casinos
The Panama gambling zone is perhaps better-known by players in the US who for many years have had no option other than to play offshore. Plenty of casinos choose to base their company here as it is a tax-free republic. And that will always please a business owner!
Licenses cost $40k and an operator must show financial security and enough working capital to gain approval. So a casino owner needs to be serious about entering the business if they are going to base themselves here.
FAQ
Well, that was our bite-sized intro into Malta casinos not on Gamstop. Hope you enjoyed it!
Are Malta casinos part of Gamstop?
No. If a casino holds an MGA licence and is servicing clients from outside the UK, then they don’t have to conform to any Gamstop regulations.
Is the MGA license safe for players?
Yes. It is one of the most reputable gambling authorities. Loads of the huge casino brands that you know and love in the UK will also have a presence in Malta too. This lets them attract customers in the EU and beyond.
