Gibraltar amends the Gambling Act 2025 to include the GOSS licence
Gibraltar is set to expand its regulatory framework under the Gambling Act 2025 with the introduction of the GOSS (Gibraltar Operator Support Services) licence, coming into effect in April 2026. The change represents a move towards regulating not just operators, but the wider network of parties that support and influence gambling businesses.
Until now, regulation has largely focused on licensed operators. The new GOSS regime shifts that approach by bringing certain third parties and individuals into scope where their role has a meaningful impact on areas such as player protection, anti-money laundering (AML), and operational integrity.
Who will need a GOSS licence?
The updated framework introduces a new class of licensable activity, capturing a range of support functions that sit around the core gambling operation. This includes:
Marketing and affiliate partners involved in promoting gambling services, unless their activity meets the criteria for exempt advertising
Significant shareholders and controllers, typically those holding over 25% ownership or exercising notable influence over a gambling business
Entities handling customer funds in connection with remote gambling, except where already regulated as a credit institution
By including these groups, Gibraltar is extending accountability beyond the operator itself to those who help shape or control the business.
A more adaptable regulatory model
A notable feature of the GOSS licence is its flexibility. The framework has been designed so that the scope of regulated activities can evolve over time, allowing Gibraltar’s regulator to respond more quickly to changes in how gambling businesses are structured or supported.
There are also some limited exclusions within the regime. Certain internal group services may fall outside the requirement for separate licensing, although this does not remove obligations for key owners or controlling parties, who remain firmly within scope.
Strengthening oversight across the ecosystem
The introduction of GOSS also addresses structural gaps that previously allowed some functions to sit outside direct regulatory supervision. By requiring licensing at multiple points across the value chain, the new system reduces the ability to separate risk-heavy activities from the licensed entity.
In practice, this means that more participants in the gambling ecosystem will be subject to regulatory scrutiny, creating a more consistent and transparent compliance environment.
Preparing for April 2026
With implementation scheduled for April 2026, businesses connected to Gibraltar-licensed operators should begin reviewing their roles and responsibilities now. Identifying whether activities fall within the new regime will be an important first step, followed by preparing for potential licensing requirements.
As the industry adapts, the GOSS licence signals Gibraltar’s intention to maintain high regulatory standards while modernising its approach to oversight.
For organisations that may be affected, early engagement and expert guidance will be key to navigating the transition.
Contact us for support
Speak to our experts at hello@gamingateway.com for regulatory guidance on Gibraltar's new regime.
Learn more about setting up an iGaming entity in Gibraltar here.
