May, 24, 2024

Crypto gambling refers to all activities that combine games of chance (iGaming) and cryptocurrency. In short, crypto gambling combines conventional gambling with cryptocurrencies utilizing blockchain technology.
The noticeable difference between online and crypto gambling is the currency used. Online gambling accepts fiat money, while crypto gambling deals in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Online gambling requires personal information and identification, but crypto gambling is almost untraceable and allows anonymous play. Additionally, online gambling is usually more regulated through licensing by third-party organizations, making it more structured. In contrast, the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies makes regulation more challenging for crypto casinos, though progress has been made in this area.
Many countries are wary of crypto gambling and cryptocurrency in general due to various concerns and challenges, including the following:
- Bitcoin may disrupt centralized economies by eliminating intermediaries.
- Governments find it challenging to regulate digital assets.
- Cryptocurrency is linked to money laundering and tax evasion because it bypasses capital controls.
- Tracing transactions is difficult, posing a security risk.
Countries implement strict regulations or outright bans on crypto gambling to protect their financial systems and maintain economic stability. These measures reduce the risk of money laundering and other illegal activities due to cryptocurrency transactions’ high volatility and anonymity.
This article focuses on the following topics:
- Crypto gambling legality in different countries
- The state of crypto gambling laws across countries
- Challenges in crypto gambling
Key Takeaways:
- In the US, different states have different laws on online gambling, including cryptocurrency gambling.
- Crypto gambling is illegal in China, Egypt, and Qatar.
- The Canadian government allows casinos to use cryptocurrency.
- Japan prohibits most gambling except for public sports and lotteries.
- The UK has a relatively open attitude toward cryptocurrency gambling.
- South Korea has strict gambling laws that cover both online and offline gambling.
Is Crypto Gambling Legal?
The shift towards digital currency in online betting opens doors to global participants who face restrictions or high costs with conventional money transfers. Crypto gambling is becoming popular due to its global accessibility, fast and secure transactions, anonymity, lower fees, and provably fair transparency. In fact, the blockchain market is projected to reach $65.7 billion by 2027.
Talking about the legality of crypto gambling around the world is like attempting to solve a jigsaw puzzle. It is complicated, ever-changing, and varies dramatically from country to country.
Some countries have no problem with cryptocurrency gambling and have not issued any regulations on it. In the UK, Australia, and Canada, crypto gambling is legal.
Across the US, crypto gambling gets more complicated. The legality of online gambling, including cryptocurrency gambling, varies significantly from state to state. Some states, like New Jersey and Nevada, have relatively open policies toward online gambling, while others have strict bans.
Meanwhile, crypto gambling is illegal in China, Egypt, and Qatar. The restrictions in these countries extend to all gambling operations that accept or facilitate cryptocurrency transactions.
Interestingly, despite these varying degrees of regulation, the global appeal of crypto gambling continues to grow, mainly because of how cryptocurrencies are decentralized. Crypto gambling on international platforms is possible for users from stricter countries, but there are risks and legal ambiguities.
Here’s a list of some countries and the state of crypto gambling.
Country | Crypto Gambling Legality |
Legend:✔️- Legal and Regulated ★ – Unregulated ✖️- Illegal | |
Albania | ✖️ |
Algeria | ✖️ |
Algeria | ✖️ |
Australia | ✖️ |
Austria | ✔️ |
Bahrain | ✖️ |
Belgium | ✔️ |
Brazil | ✖️ |
Bulgaria | ✔️ |
Cambodia | ✖️ |
Canada | ✔️ |
Czech Republic | ✔️ |
China | ✖️ |
Denmark | ✔️ |
Estonia | ✔️ |
Finland | ✔️ |
France | ✔️ |
Germany | ✔️ |
Gibraltar | ✔️ |
Greece | ★ |
Hungary | ✖️ |
Iceland | ✖️ |
India | ✖️ |
Israel | ✖️ |
Italy | ✔️ |
Japan | ✔️ |
Libya | ✖️ |
Luxembourg | ✖️ |
Malta | ✔️ |
Mexico | ✖️ |
Mongolia | ✖️ |
Norway | ✖️ |
Oman | ✖️ |
Peru | ✖️ |
Philippines | ★ |
Poland | ✖️ |
Russia | ★ |
Saudi Arabia | ✖️ |
Singapore | ✔️ |
South Korea | ✖️ |
South Africa | ★ |
Spain | ✔️ |
Switzerland | ✔️ |
Thailand | ✖️ |
Turkey | ✖️ |
UAE | ✖️ |
UK | ✔️ |
USA | ✔️ |
Venezuela | ✔️ |
Vietnam | ✖️ |
Yemen | ✖️ |
Zimbabwe | ✔️ |
The following section will explain the current state of crypto gambling laws across countries in 2024.
Did You Know? The US earned $9.36 billion in cryptocurrency gains, making it the top country by a wide margin. The UK came in second, with an estimated $1.39 billion in crypto gains. |
The State of Crypto Gambling Laws in Different Countries in 2024
Some countries have accepted crypto gambling with relaxed regulations for crypto betting platforms. These countries see the potential benefits of blockchain technology, like better transparency and security.
In contrast, there are countries with strict rules against it, often due to broader bans on the use of cryptocurrencies themselves. These bans typically arise from concerns like:
- Financial Security
- Regulatory Oversight
- Potential for Illegal Activities
So, in places where any form of cryptocurrency is prohibited, it’s evident that crypto gambling isn’t allowed either. As countries balance innovation with protection and law enforcement in a digital world, this varied landscape highlights the ongoing debate and challenges.
Here’s a map showing cryptocurrency regulations by country in 2022:

Below is a detailed look at the state of crypto gambling laws in different countries in 2024:
1. US: No Explicit Crypto Gambling Laws
The US government has not explicitly prohibited Bitcoin or crypto gambling. However, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) 2006 forbids businesses from knowingly accepting payments concerning illegal Internet gambling.
UIGEA applies to both traditional currency and “virtual currencies,” such as Bitcoin. However, many Bitcoin casinos circumvent this by locating their operations offshore in countries with more relaxed gambling laws, like Curacao.
Fun Fact:
North and South America dominate the Bitcoin casino market. In 2023, North America accounted for 35.7% of all Bitcoin casino visitors. South America follows closely with 30%.
Individual states have their laws and regulations regarding online gambling. As of today, online gambling is legal in only a handful of states in the US. These states include:
- Delaware
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- West Virginia
When you live in one of the states mentioned above, you can legally gamble at a cryptocurrency casino. However, if you live in a state that prohibits online gambling, gambling at a crypto casino may violate the law.
Here’s a closer look at the state of crypto gambling laws in various US states:
US States | Regulations Affecting the Legality of Crypto Gambling |
Californa | California State Gambling Laws California permits certain forms of gambling, including tribal casinos, horse racing, and the state lottery. However, online gambling, including online casinos and sports betting, is largely prohibited. |
Delaware | Delaware Gaming Competitiveness Act of 2012 Delaware legalized online gambling, setting up a regulatory framework for fair and secure operations. It facilitated revenue generation through licensing and taxes and enabled interstate gaming compacts to expand player pools. |
Nevada | AB 114 Grant licenses to online poker operators so they can offer their games to the state’s residents in a safe and regulated manner. |
2. Canada: Crypto Gambling is Legal in Canada
Canadian gambling laws permit the use of cryptocurrency within Canadian casinos. Some casino providers find it challenging to adopt cryptocurrency due to regulatory issues, but every crypto casino in Canada follows the same rules as brick-and-mortar casinos.
The same regulations that govern traditional gambling will also apply to all forms of online cryptocurrency gambling, according to Canadian gambling laws. However, enforcement is complicated because most laws do not explicitly mention Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
Did You Know? The online gambling revenue in Canada is projected to reach US$4.19 billion in 2024. Canada is among the top five countries with the highest estimated revenue, along with the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. |
In New Brunswick, online gambling is legal through the Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC). Players can gamble at offshore online casinos and sports betting sites if they do not advertise or operate in Canada.
Ontario differs from the other Canadian provinces because it is the only Canadian jurisdiction currently offering a regulated iGaming regime. It allows third-party B2C operators to take bets directly from players in Ontario.
Here’s an overview of some of the laws governing cryptocurrency gambling in different Canadian provinces:
Province | Regulations Affecting the Legality of Crypto Gambling |
Alberta | Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act The Act ensures gaming activities are conducted fairly and legally, extending to any form of gambling, including crypto gambling, under general compliance requirements. |
British Columbia | The Gaming Control Act The act ensures that gambling is conducted fairly, transparently, and responsibly. |
New Brunswick | Gaming Control Act Under this act, the New Brunswick Lotteries and Gaming Corporation (NBLGC) is responsible for conducting and managing all provincial gaming. |
Ontario | Gaming Control Act, 1992 The government established this law to regulate Ontario’s gaming industry and ensure honesty, integrity, and financial responsibility. Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation Act, 1999 They also established the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) as a Crown agency to run lotteries and casinos. Responsible gambling and revenue generation aims to boost Ontario’s economy. |
3. Japan: Most Forms of Gambling are Illegal
Japan has strict laws regarding gambling, with most forms of gambling being illegal except for certain public sports and lotteries. Gambling is classified as a criminal offense under Articles 185 and 186 of the Japanese Penal Code.
Online gambling is widely prohibited in Japan. The only legal online betting options are on public sports, such as:
- Horse Racing
- Bicycle Racing
- Powerboat Racing
- Motorcycle Racing
- Lottery Game
Casinos were historically illegal in Japan until the Integrated Resort (IR) Promotion Law was passed in 2016. The IR Implementation Law became effective in 2018, making building actual casinos inside integrated resorts easier. These laws, however, do not extend to online casino gambling, which remains outside the scope of legal betting in Japan.
The Japanese government maintains these restrictions to address concerns about gambling addiction and to maintain social order. Enforcement of online gambling laws is stringent, with penalties for operators and sometimes for participants.
Did you know? Bitcoin, the original cryptocurrency, was created by “Satoshi Nakamoto,” an unknown Japanese person. This fact is one of the reasons Japan is fond of Bitcoin—perhaps a sense of national pride. Japan also has its cryptocurrency, Monacoin, which started almost as a joke in 2013. |
4. UK: Open Stance for Crypto Gambling
The UK has a relatively open stance towards crypto gambling. The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) is the government agency regulating all types of gambling, including those conducted online. In 2017, the UKGC released a paper on using virtual currencies in the gambling industry.
Cryptocurrency gambling platforms can operate with the UK Gambling Commission license. They must adhere to fair play and money laundering regulations to continue operating in the country.
5. Australia: Ban the Use of Crypto in Online Gambling
Australia’s House of Representatives has passed a law banning the use of credit cards and cryptocurrencies for online betting and gambling. This extension of a land-based ban is part of an effort to combat gambling addiction in the country.
The legislation, part of a comprehensive gambling reform, encountered significant opposition from gaming industry lobbyists. However, it received bipartisan support and was unaffected by these efforts.
6. China: Gambling is Largely Illegal in China
Gambling is generally illegal in China, and this extends to all forms of online and crypto gambling. It has banned crypto since 2021. All cryptocurrency transactions are illegal in China, including those conducted through offshore exchanges that serve Chinese citizens.
On September 24, 2021, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) and nine other authorities issued a circular emphasizing control over the speculative risks associated with cryptocurrency trading. A national monetary authority has not endorsed cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin; the nation’s top courts and law enforcement agencies concur that they are not legal tender.
The government has a stringent policy against gambling and has taken active steps to clamp down on all forms of cryptocurrency trading and transactions. This action has made China one of the strictest environments for crypto gambling.
Did You Know? Despite most forms of gambling being banned in Mainland China (except state-run lotteries), gambling addiction is estimated to be higher than in many Western countries. Gambling addiction affects approximately 2.5% to 4% of the adult population. |
7. South Korea: Stringent Gambling Laws
South Korea has stringent gambling laws that apply to both online and offline gambling. The use of cryptocurrencies in gambling is largely prohibited, with the government maintaining tight control over online activities and focusing heavily on preventing problem gambling and illegal activities.
The Korean Criminal Code bans gambling, lotteries, and their businesses, except for certain legal betting activities. As a result, a game containing gambling content may be punishable as gambling under the Korean Criminal Code.
Did you know? As of 2024, 10.8% of adult internet users in South Korea own cryptocurrency. This significant statistic highlights the country’s robust engagement in the digital currency market. |
8. Switzerland: Crypto-Friendly Country
Switzerland has emerged as one of the most cryptocurrency and blockchain-friendly countries. International online crypto casinos can legally serve Swiss players, giving them access to cutting-edge gambling sites.
The regulation of crypto gambling in Switzerland follows the general guidelines set for all online gambling activities under the Federal Act on Money Games (AMG). Operators must obtain a Swiss license to offer online gambling services, including crypto gambling.
The law requires establishing a Swiss subsidiary or partnering with a Swiss licensee. Notably, foreign online gambling providers must have a “good reputation” and not actively target Swiss players from abroad in the past five years.
Offering unlicensed online gambling services, including crypto gambling, can lead to legal action and the blocking of access to these services by Swiss authorities. Ensuring full compliance with all relevant licensing requirements and regulations is crucial.
9. France: Set up a Law that Distinguishes Gambling from Crypto
France is now recognized as a leader in implementing crypto-gambling laws and regulations. The country has set up the Digital Space Regulation Law” (SREN) to clearly distinguish crypto gaming and gambling. Rather than enacting blanket laws, specific regulations for crypto-based gambling can be established.
The French National Assembly approved the mixed joint committee’s latest draft, “Law SREN,” which secures and regulates the digital space. The SREN Law aims to enhance users’ online safety, fight misinformation, and regulate digital assets. It also addresses cloud computing, interoperability, and digital sovereignty, affecting the French cloud services market.
This law is still in its early stages, and one of its provisions requires that all winnings be held in digital assets rather than fiat currency. This new law could inspire other nations to mainstream cryptocurrency gambling if ratified.
10. Isle of Man: All forms of Online Gambling and Gaming are Potentially Licensable Under OGRA
The Isle of Man is not only one of the leaders in cryptocurrency integration but also one of the leaders in crypto-based gambling. The Online Gambling Regulation Act of 2001 (OGRA) is the primary legislative framework that governs online gambling on the Isle of Man.
OGRA encompasses a wide range of online gambling activities, including crypto gambling, and sets stringent standards and compliance requirements for operators. It provides comprehensive coverage and excludes spread betting, which remains unlicensed in this jurisdiction.
The Isle of Man has set up a regulatory body for crypto gambling, allowing online casinos to accept fiat and cryptocurrencies. It has created a Blockchain Sandbox to help blockchain businesses navigate current and future regulations. This initiative aims to make the Isle of Man a global center for blockchain companies.
While the steps they have taken work on a smaller scale, they show that it is possible to legalize crypto gambling. They demonstrated that crypto gambling could be regulated to protect operators and players.
11. Malta: First to Legalize Online Gambling
Malta, a small EU country, is known for its gambling leniency, especially online gambling. It was the first country within the EU to legalize online gambling and has been a front-runner in the industry ever since. Businesses sought Malta’s Gambling Authority’s online gambling licenses due to its many tax breaks and opportunities domestically and abroad.
The Gaming Act 2018 (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta) and other regulations and directives regulate gambling in Malta. Amended in 2023, the Act protects licensed operators and their staff from legal actions related to Maltese-lawful gaming services. In particular, Maltese courts will not recognize or enforce foreign judgments against such operators if they violate Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) laws.
12. Sweden: Lenient Gambling Laws
Sweden is another country with a reputation for having lenient gambling laws and regulatory practices. Sweden has no cryptocurrency regulation, and the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Sw. Finansinspektionen) (the “SFSA”) has provided limited guidance on crypto-asset treatment.
In the past year, Sweden has changed its regulations to protect players and raise operator licensing fees to fund the Swedish Gambling Authority. However, even with these updates to their rules, Sweden still maintains relaxed and progressive laws around gambling.
13. Curaçao: Permits Different Secure Payment Options
Another small country known for its regulatory approach to gambling is Curaçao. The Curacao gambling license allows for a variety of secure payment options. These include credit cards, debit cards, check deposits, and even cryptocurrencies, which allow crypto casinos to reach more players.
The Curacao Gaming Control Board (GCB) licenses all lotteries, charity bingo, and charity bon ku ne and supervises online gaming operators. In addition, the authority enforces anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations (AML/CFT).
The goal of supervision is to ensure the stability and integrity of Curacao’s gambling industry while protecting the public’s interests. The regulations provide a framework for honest, responsible, competitive, and crime-free gambling.
Challenges in Crypto Gambling
While cryptocurrency offers benefits like increased privacy and security for online gambling, legalizing and regulating crypto gambling presents many challenges that vary by country. The anonymity and decentralization of cryptocurrency transactions, which users like, complicate regulatory efforts and hinder legalization.
Here are the common challenges hindering crypto gambling from being legalized and regulated in some countries.
Challenging Crypto Asset Classification
Cryptocurrencies themselves are often in a grey area of regulation. Many governments are still figuring out how to classify them—as a currency, a commodity, or something else. This classification uncertainty extends to crypto gambling, complicating efforts to regulate such activities.
Financial Security Concerns
Digital currency is decentralized, meaning no central authority or administrator oversees its creation, movement, and management. This decentralization leads to high volatility and the anonymous nature of cryptocurrencies, making transactions difficult to trace.
Consequently, the inherent nature of cryptocurrency increases the risk of fraud and money laundering. Regulators are cautious about permitting crypto gambling operations unless robust mechanisms are in place to prevent such illicit activities.
Consumer Protection
Crypto transactions are designed to be irreversible, which can leave consumers with no recourse in case of disputes or fraud. Regulatory bodies prioritize consumer protection, and crypto gambling’s lack of control mechanisms can hinder legalization.
Technological Challenges
Regulating a technology-driven sector requires a deep understanding of the technology itself. The lack of expertise among regulatory bodies can hinder the development of appropriate legal frameworks for crypto gambling.
Taxation Issues
Policymakers are struggling to accommodate cryptocurrencies within tax systems not designed to handle them. Cryptocurrencies’ anonymity and borderless nature complicate the taxation of winnings and revenues from crypto gambling. Governments may struggle to track and tax these activities effectively, posing legal recognition barriers.
International Legal Framework
Since cryptocurrencies and the internet facilitate cross-border gambling, countries have different legal standards. The lack of a uniform and typical international regulation leads to numerous legal conflicts. As such, it can create complex legal issues that are hard to navigate and regulate effectively.
Ethical and Social Concerns
There are also ethical considerations regarding gambling addiction and the socio-economic impact of gambling. The simplicity and potential for dependence on crypto gambling can exacerbate these issues, making some governments hesitant to legalize it.
Additionally, the anonymity that cryptocurrencies offer might make it possible for minors to access gambling platforms without proper age verification. This accessibility and the engaging nature of online gambling, primarily when facilitated by cryptocurrencies, heighten the risk of gambling addiction.
Conclusion
As the world of crypto gambling evolves, significant regulatory disparities persist. In some countries, the emerging practice falls into a gray area, as existing laws do not explicitly address cryptocurrency in gambling. As such, it leads to a patchwork of enforcement attitudes ranging from lenient to restrictive.
However, as governments increasingly recognize the need for regulation, efforts to define and enforce crypto gambling laws are gaining momentum. Protecting consumers and maximizing the economic potential of this expanding market are the two driving forces behind this change.
As regulations solidify, crypto gambling is poised to become as standard and accepted as traditional online gambling. This shift will ensure player security and promote market stability.
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