Can You Gamble Online Legally?
Yes, a player can gamble online legally. However, the legality of online gambling is somewhat a grey zone. No doubt, numerous countries have legalized online gambling. But the gambling laws in some countries are vague and don’t categorically prohibit online gambling.
Remarkably, not all gamblers understand the implication of gambling in regions where online gaming is prohibited. Apart from the fines that may be meted out, gambling in a region where online gambling is outlawed can attract a prison term.
However, most often, the online gambling laws affect the website operators more than the players. Meanwhile, there are numerous legal online gambling sites on the internet.
Overview of Online Gambling Laws Around the World
Regarding land-based gambling, the law appears to be clear and unambiguous in most countries. However, that’s not the case with online gambling in some countries.
For instance, in the European Union, the operators of foreign gambling websites must abide by the EU laws. Nonetheless, not all countries in the EU accept that foreign online gambling operators should pay tax to the local treasury.
In some countries, a foreign online gambling operator is mandated to obtain a local gaming license and pay taxes. Some countries that operate in this manner are France, Germany, Italy, etc.
Therefore, although online gambling may be illegal in the country, they may not have the resources to stop foreign operators from functioning in their country.
Jurisdictions Where Online Gambling Is Legalized
Certain jurisdictions have legalized online gambling. Therefore, players and online gambling website operators can operate within the confines of the law. They are four groups as far as legalized online gambling is concerned.
| Foreign Online Gambling Sites Are Allowed to Operate While Local Gambling Sites Are Blocked | Foreign or Local Must Be Licensed by Countries Regulators to Operate | Operational License Is Required by Local Operators, but Foreign Gambling Sites Can Operate Freely | No Restrictions Whatever for Online Gambling Sites, Whether Local or Foreign |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | Ethiopia | Norway | Malawi |
| Cyprus | France | Monaco | India |
| Brazil | UK | Portugal | Malta |
| Australia | Spain | Sweden | Kosovo |
| New Zealand | Finland | Rwanda | Isle of Man |
| Hong Kong | Italy | Canada | Macau |
| Japan | Netherlands | Curacao | Ghana |
| Malaysia | Denmark | Montenegro | Chile |
| Slovakia | Germany | Comoros | Paraguay |
Although they have legalized online gambling, their regulations regarding operators, licensing, players may differ. The US is not on this list because not all states have legalized online gambling. Also, lots of European countries require a gambling license.
Regions That Outlaw Online Gambling
Generally, in Africa, online gambling is not legal. However, this has not stopped the operation of foreign online gambling sites. In most cases, either the laws are not clear, or the foreign operator finds a loophole to function.
For instance, in South Africa, the National Gambling Board outlawed all forms of online gambling except sports betting. Despite this ban, there are numerous foreign online casinos operational in SA. The foreign online operators tend to have their way because they don’t have any local presence in the country. All their activities are cited in regions that legalize online gambling. Furthermore, South Africans use e-wallets to deposit at these foreign-based online gambling websites to avoid scrutiny.
Other countries that prohibit online gambling are:
- Brunei
- Kuwait
- Lebanon
- North Korea
- Qatar
- Singapore
- United Arab Emirates
- Israel
Offshore Online Gambling Providers Vs. Local Online Gambling Providers
The difference between offshore online gambling providers and local online gambling providers is often very slim.
| Offshore Online Gambling Providers | Local Online Gambling Providers |
|---|---|
| They operate from another jurisdiction where gambling is legalized | They are bound by the local gambling laws |
| Depending on the country, offshore online gambling providers may not pay taxes | Local gambling providers are physically present in the country where they operate |
| They accommodate players from countries from various countries, including regions where online gambling is prohibited | Punters can gamble and bet in local currencies |
But that’s not all; offshore online gambling providers are not illegal, but their major feature is that they are not physically present in the area where they operate. Also, offshore online gambling platforms accommodate players from various countries. Gambling at offshore online gaming websites is fun because they offer more promotions than local providers.
Wrapping Up
There is no need asking “what is the best online casino in South Africa?” because the list is endless. However, top online casinos or gambling websites often have the same features. First of all, learn what online gambling is all about before you register at online casinos.
Then find out the regulatory body that licensed their operation. The most trusted offshore online gambling regulatory agencies are the UK gambling commission and Malta Gaming Authority.
Finally, take out a few minutes to read the online gambling website terms and conditions. That way, you would know if their services are available for your region or country. Always have a gaming strategy and gamble safely!
I’m Leah and I joined the team in July 2020 as a second editor of CasinoHEX.co.za.
Now I review licensed online casinos and slots on the South African market to provide the readers with juicy and rich bonuses, the newest promotions, and other useful information to help them make the right choice and enjoy safe and joyful gambling.
My name is Banele Nkuna, and I am thrilled to be a part of the CasinoHEX.co.za team as the second editor.
With a passion for online gambling and a deep understanding of the South African market, I have been entrusted with the task of reviewing licensed online casinos and slots and preparing blog posts for our site.
Since joining in May 2023, my primary goal has been to provide our readers with valuable insights into the world of online gambling.
