To legally operate a betting business in Uganda, one must obtain a Bookmaker License from the Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB). This license allows individuals or companies to receive, negotiate, and manage bets within Uganda under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016.
The process involves a thorough review by the LGRB to ensure that applicants meet financial, operational, and ethical standards. The licensing framework helps the government maintain fair gaming practices, protect punters, and ensure responsible betting.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Apply In Person
Applicants must visit the National Gaming Board offices in Kampala to begin the process. Application forms for bookmakers are available at the 4th floor of Communications House, Plot 1 Colville Street.
Step 2: Fill and Submit Application Form
Obtain, fill, and sign the Bookmaker License Application Form accurately. Attach all required documents listed below before submitting to the Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB).
Step 3: Pay Application and Investigation Fees
Pay the non-refundable fees at the designated payment counter:
- Application Fee: UGX 50,000
- Investigation Fee: UGX 1,750,000 (local) or UGX 2,000,000 (foreign applicant)
Submit the payment receipt alongside your application documents.
Step 4: Premises Inspection
Officials from LGRB will inspect your proposed premises to ensure compliance with the set operational and safety standards.
Step 5: Board Review and Interview
All applicants must appear before the LGRB Board to make a presentation about their proposed bookmaker operations. This presentation is evaluated based on:
- Preparedness and understanding of bookmaker operations
- Quality and completeness of submitted documents
- Innovation, sustainability, and potential impact
Step 6: Issuance of License
Once all requirements are satisfied and approval granted, the Bookmaker License is issued.
License holders must operationalize their betting business within six months from the issuance date, or risk revocation.
The entire process may take up to six months, but formal review and approval generally conclude within 21 working days after inspection and evaluation.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following to the Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board:
- Duly completed and signed application form
- Detailed business concept and operational plan
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- PIN and Tax Compliance Certificate (URA)
- Certificate of Good Conduct (for Directors)
- Business Plan showing minimum investment and sources of funding
- Lease agreement or proof of business premises
- Details of shareholders and directors
- Audited financial statements (past 3 years)
- Proposed terms and conditions of operation
- Proposed betting architecture and odds provider agreement
- Dispute resolution policy
- Measures to mitigate underage gambling and excessive play
- Probity form completed by all directors
Office Locations & Contacts
Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB) – Head Office
4th Floor, Communications House, Plot 1 Colville Street, Kampala, Uganda
P.O. Box 5446, Kampala
Tel: +256 414 231628 / +256 414 231648
Toll-Free: 0800 100090
Email: [email protected]
Website: LGRB Official Site
Eligibility
- Any individual or company registered in Uganda may apply.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial capacity, operational integrity, and a suitable business premises.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (UGX) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | 50,000 | Non-refundable |
| Investigation Fee (Local Applicant) | 1,750,000 | Non-refundable |
| Investigation Fee (Foreign Applicant) | 2,000,000 | Non-refundable |
| License Grant Fee | 7,000,000 | Payable upon approval |
| Annual License Fee | 1,750,000 | Renewable yearly |
| Premises Grant Fee | 3,500,000 | Once per location |
| Premises Annual Fee | 1,750,000 | Renewable yearly |
| Renewal Fees | 20,000 | License & Premises each |
Validity
The Bookmaker License is valid for one year, expiring on December 31st annually.
Processing Time
The complete process takes approximately 21 working days after inspection and review, although full operational approval may extend to six months depending on complexity.
Need for the Document
A Bookmaker License is mandatory for anyone intending to receive or negotiate bets in Uganda.
Under Ugandan law, a bookmaker is defined as any person who:
- Regularly conducts betting operations
- Receives or negotiates bets for profit
- Holds themselves out as a betting operator
Holding this license ensures your business operates legally and complies with the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016.
Information Which Might Help
- No bookmaker license is issued unless the Board confirms that the applicant is a fit and proper person.
- LGRB also consults with the local authority where the business will operate to gather recommendations or objections.
- False declarations in the application process may lead to fines up to UGX 5,000,000 or imprisonment for six months.
Key Takeaway
Obtaining a Bookmaker License in Uganda requires meeting stringent legal, financial, and operational standards. By adhering to these procedures, applicants demonstrate responsibility, transparency, and readiness to operate within Uganda’s regulated gaming industry.
