Legal Gambling Age

The Legal Age for Gambling at Online Casinos and Land-Based Casinos

Gambling is the favourite pastime for people worldwide. Whether they do it online from the comfort of their own homes or at one of the numerous brick-and-mortar casinos, people like to try their luck every on gambling games.

However, as entertaining as it is, gambling isn’t completely harmless. On the contrary, it requires a great degree of self-control and responsibility as it can be a costly hobby. That’s why governments and legislators worldwide have specific regulations in place to define the exact terms under which gambling activities can be conducted.

Although there are different laws regulating gambling in each country, almost all countries have a specific age limit. In this article, we’ll take a quick tour around the world to see what are the legal ages to gamble in various countries. This can be a helpful piece of information if you want to try an online casino or find yourself travelling and want to try your luck.

Legal Ages to Gamble Around the World:

Canada

There isn’t a single law that regulates online casinos and other gambling activities in entire Canada. There are casinos and lotteries available in the country, and the different provinces have different minimum gamble age requirements. These are usually 19 for casinos (except Alberta, Calgary, Manitoba, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec, where the limit is 18) and 18 or 19 for lotteries. See a list of the best Canadian online casinos here

Europe

Europe is home to many land-based casinos and is also one of the leaders in terms of online regulations. For the most part, countries around Europe have similar laws when it comes to the minimum gambling age but there may be slight differences from one country to another.

Albania

In Albania, the minimum legal gamble age is 18. However, the country has had a big shift in its gambling laws lately, pretty much banning all gambling activities within its borders. New laws mostly apply to casinos and game organizers, though. As for the players, they are legally allowed to participate in all forms of gambling that’s allowed once they turn 18.

Austria

Austria is home to several luxurious land-based casinos and it also allows online gambling. The minimum legal gamble age in Austria is 18. This applies to any and all forms of gambling, from lotteries and scratch card tickets to live casinos and online casinos.

Belarus

You have to be 18 or older to gamble in Belarus. The country has a somewhat complicated system in place with regards to licensing, especially for online casinos. For the players, though, as soon as they turn 18, they can play in land-based casinos, register with regulated gambling internet sites, place sports wagers, and more.

Belgium

Belgium is one of a few countries in Europe where the legal gamble age is actually 21. Interestingly enough, all other “grown up” activities are allowed at either 16 or 18. However, Belgians have to be 21 to legally enter a live casino or play at an online gambling site of any kind.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Located in Balkans, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a small country with fairly relaxed gambling laws. The minimum gambling age is 18, although it is possible to buy scratch cards or place sports wagers even if you’re under the age limit. Personnel in casinos and bookies won’t always ask for an ID when placing a bet or playing but do have to be 18 to get your winnings, especially if it is any meaningful amount (over 50 Euro).

Bulgaria

Bulgaria regulates a wide spectrum of gambling activities for land-based and online operators alike, from lotteries and scratch cards, over slots and table games, to sports betting. The minimum gamble age in Bulgaria for all of these activities is 18.

Croatia

In Croatia, you will are able to enter casinos, gamble, place sports wagers, and buy lottery tickets as soon as you turn 18. The minimum gamble age applies equally to country residents and tourists and you might be asked for an ID proving your age if there is any doubt.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a number of live casinos, poker rooms, and other gambling facilities. It also has laws regulating online gambling. One thing that’s common to all these regulations is that Czech players need to be at least 18 to participate in and all forms of gambling activities.

Denmark

Like most other countries in Europe, Denmark also allows people of over 18 to participate in gambling activities. This covers casino games, poker, as well as sports betting activities. The legal gamble age limit also applies to all licensed online casino operators.

Estonia

The Estonian gambling law is slightly different from most laws in Europe. Here, those wanting to play in a live or online casino have to be at least 21 years old. This age limit applies to a majority of games that qualify as games of chance. The only exception to the rule are lotteries, which can be played legally from 16 years onwards.

Finland

In Finland, the legal gamble age is 18. Until 2010, this country had a different set of laws in place, which allowed people as young as 15 to legally gamble. The new law changed this, however, although age restrictions for slots were only introduced in 2011.

France

Until the late 1980s, France had a gamble age limit of 21. In 1987, a new gambling law was introduced, lowering the requirement to 18. Nowadays, all residents of France as well as all visitors are allowed to legally gamble if they’re 18 or older.

Germany

Germany has a great number of land-based casino venues while the online gambling area is still being regulated. However, in terms of the legal gambling age in Germany, it is 18 for all forms of licensed games in this category.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is known in the world of gambling as one of the leading licensing authorities. All gambling activities are regulated by the Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association, which has set the minimum gamble age limit at 18 years old.

Greece

Greece has one of the strictest laws in Europe when it comes to the legal gambling age. Although the country features numerous land-based casinos, you’ll only be allowed to enter them and enjoy their offering if you’re 23 or older.

Hungary

In Hungary, you have to be 18 to legally participate in games of luck. There are several casinos scattered around the country, as well as some poker rooms and lotteries. There are no distinctions in terms of age, though, as the same law applies to all of these.

Iceland

Residents of Iceland as well as those visiting the country have to be 18 or older to participate in a majority of gambling activities available in the country. The only exception to his rule are lotteries, which require you to be at least 15 years old.

Ireland

You’ll need to be at least 18 to play online casinos, and to enter casinos in Ireland, play poker, or participate in any other form of gambling activities. See the best Irish Online Casinos Here

Isle of Man

Although Isle of Man is another well-known name in the gambling industry due to the fact that many gaming companies have their headquarters there or operate under their licenses, the legal gambling age is 18, just like in most of Europe.

Italy

In Italy, the legal age to gamble is 18. This applies to all forms of gambling, including online casinos, betting, lotteries, and casinos. Italy has a regulated online gambling market and many of the same laws apply to the internet segment, including the age restriction.

Kosovo

Up until recently, everyone 18 or older was allowed to legally gamble in Kosovo. However, in 2019, the country’s prime minister has issued a 10-year ban on all gambling activities, both live and online. So, for the time being at least, there is no way to gamble legally in the country regardless of how old you are.

Latvia

Latvia has laws regulating both live and online gambling. These laws are mostly in sync with those regulating gaming activities in other European countries. When it comes to legal gambling age, it is 18 for all activities regulated by the gaming laws.

Lichtenstein

Located between Austria and Switzerland, the Principality of Lichtenstein is a small but rich country with its own laws and regulations. There are no land-based casinos here and online operators can’t get a special license, but there are many offshore sites catering to Lichtenstein players, who have to be 18 years or older to play.

Lithuania

In Lithuania, gambling is legal and regulated. Since 2016, the country has had laws regulating online gambling as well. When it comes to the legal gambling age in Lithuania, it is 18 in theory. However, most land-based casinos require players to be at least 21 to enter.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg allows people over 18 years of age to participate in gambling activities. This is a small but very rich country and there is just one land-based casino that operates within the law. As for the online gambling, it remains unregulated but those sites accepting players from Luxembourg require them to be at least 18 years old.

Malta

Malta is the European gambling hub, with numerous gaming companies having their headquarters here. There are several land-based casinos operating in the country and, in general, the legal gambling age is 18. However, residents of Malta often have to be 25 or older to be admitted inside the casinos. These restrictions never apply to visitors, though.

Moldova

The age limit to gamble in Moldova is 18. There are several land-based casinos operating in the country and players can also access a number of online operators offering their services here.

Monaco

Monaco is well-known in Europe and around the globe as the place to visit if you’re looking for some gambling action. There are numerous luxurious casinos offering all sorts of games, from penny slots to high-stakes blackjack and baccarat tables. You’ll need to be 18 or older to enter one of these venues and play. However, residents of Monaco who aren’t foreign nationals aren’t allowed to enter casinos at all, unless they work there.

Montenegro

Montenegro features fairly liberal gambling laws, allowing all sorts of gaming activities, both online and live. This includes slots, table games, poker, sports betting, lotteries, and more. There is a single age limit that applies to all of these activities, which is 18 years of age.

Netherlands

Gambling is fully regulated in Netherlands. There are many land-based casinos in the country, alongside the state lottery that also offers sports betting. Additionally, there are also several poker rooms. For all these, the legal gambling age is 18 for residents and tourists alike.

North Macedonia

In North Macedonia, it is legal to gamble both online and in live venues. In addition to several live casinos, there is also state lottery, sports betting, and other popular types of games of chance. For all of these, the legal gambling age limit is 18.

Norway

Players wanting to gamble in Norway have to be 18 years or older, regardless of whether they’re residents or tourists. This age limit applies to land-based casinos in the country as well as all licensed and offshore operators offering their services here.

Poland

The Polish gambling law regulates all forms of gambling, both online and live, including slots, table games, poker, sports betting, raffles, lotteries, etc. For a majority of gambling activities, the legal gambling age in Poland is 18. There may be some exceptions for certain lotteries and similar games, where the age limit is lowered.

Portugal

Portugal has one of the most complex set of gambling laws in entire Europe. The legal gambling age is 18 in the country, but there are many land-based casinos that only allow players of 25 years or older. Some other venues accept tourists who are over the age of 18 but won’t accept residents of Portugal unless they are at least 25.

Romania

Romania allows players of 18 years or older to participate in all forms of games of chance. The restriction applies to land-based casinos, online gambling, and all other forms of gambling activities.

San Marino

One of the smallest countries in the world, San Marino has a completely regulated gambling market. There was a gambling ban in place until 2007 but regulatory changes in that year made gambling legal once again for everyone at least 18 years old.

Serbia

Different forms of gambling are very popular in Serbia. There are numerous smaller casinos and betting shops in the country, especially in the country’s capital Belgrade, as well as several larger gambling establishments. The minimum gambling legal age in Serbia is 18 for residents and tourists alike.

Slovakia

Gambling laws in Slovakia were revamped in 2019. The country licenses land-based and online casinos alike, with some venues operating on both sides of the market. As for the players, they need to be 18 or older to legally participate in games of chances in Slovakia.

Slovenia

In Slovenia, land-based gambling is completely legal and regulated. The situation with online gambling is somewhat murky as the government tries to block outside sites. Still, many of them continue to operate in the country. Regardless of these specifics, all casinos offering their services in Slovenia require players to be at least 18 years old.

Spain

Spain has fairly strict laws regulating all forms of gambling. The state controls all forms of gambling, from land-based casinos and lotteries to online sites. As far as the legal age limit is concerned, players have to be 18 or older to gamble legally.

Sweden

In Sweden, online casinos and other forms of gambling are allowed to all residents and non-residents when they turn 18. However, when it comes to land-based casinos, the age limit is higher. Namely, you need to be 20 years of age or older to enter a casino in Sweden.

Switzerland

Switzerland allows all forms of gambling such as slots, sports betting, lotteries, etc. The state allows land-based and online casino gaming venues alike. As for the minimum gamble age, it is 18 in Switzerland.

Turkey

Although allowed, gambling in Turkey is highly regulated. There are no casinos in the country and all other gambling activities are run by the state. Everyone has to be at least 18 years old to legally participate in games of chance here.

Ukraine

At the moment, gambling is illegal in Ukraine. This has been the situation since 2009 when casinos and other forms of gambling activities were banned in the country. Players can only try their luck on online casinos still accepting Ukrainians, in which case they have to be 18 or older.

The UK

UK has made many changes to its gambling laws in the recent years, enacting new rules and restrictions. As of 2020, the minimum gambling age in the UK is 18 for a majority of activities covered by this term online casinos (slots, poker, sports betting, etc.). Certain activities, however, such as the National Lottery, will allow participation to players who are 16 or older. See a list of the Best UK Online Casinos Here

Vatican City

Not surprisingly, there are no specific laws regulating gambling in Vatican. There are no casinos within the country’s borders. As for those potentially wanting to gamble online, they are bounded by Italian gaming laws, which means they have to be at least 18.

Asia

In the recent years, the gambling industry has been on the rise in Asia. This is true for the online and land-based segments alike. Certain countries and regions have become proper gambling hubs while some others have decided to lift long-standing casino bans and reconsider their positions on gambling in general.

Afghanistan

All forms of gambling are completely forbidden in Afghanistan so there is no legal age limit. You’re not supposed to gamble here ever, regardless of your age. However, some foreign online casinos still accept Afghan players and on these sites, the age limit is usually 18 and sometimes 21.

Armenia

The latest gambling law passed in Armenia stipulates the minimum gambling age of 21. The law applies to all forms of gambling activities: casinos, sports betting, and lotteries. Prior to the 2018 laws, players between 18 and 21 were allowed to bet on sports and participate in lotteries but they couldn’t enter casinos.

Azerbaijan

You have to be 18 or older to gamble in Azerbaijan. The state has relaxed its anti-gambling measures to an extent, although there are still no legal casinos operating in the country. However, there is a state-run sports betting operation.

Bahrain

Like a number of other Islamic countries in Asia, Bahrain doesn’t allow any forms of gambling, live or online. So, there is no actual age limit. Offshore betting sites accepting players from Bahrain usually require their customers to be at least 18 years old.

Bangladesh

All forms of gambling except for betting on horse racing are prohibited in Bangladesh. There are no brick and mortar casinos in the country. The legal gambling age is 18 with those offshore operators that do offer their services to players from Bangladesh.

Cambodia

The legal situation with gambling in Cambodia is somewhat complex. Residents of the country aren’t allowed to participate in any gambling activities regardless of their age. However, there are numerous casinos operating in the country open to tourists. Officially, you need to be 18 to enter these casinos but some operators are quite lax with their checks and even allow Cambodians to enter and play.

China

In China, gambling is against the law. There are no government-sanctioned casinos or betting shops. For that reason, players often go to Macau to gamble, where the minimum age to enter casinos is 21. As for online operators that accept Chinese players, the usual minimum age is 18.

Cyprus

Cyprus has the minimum gambling age of 18. Allowed forms of gambling in the country include slots, table games like roulette and blackjack, and sports betting. Strangely enough, no lotteries are allowed and Cyprus also prohibits poker.

Georgia

Gambling plays an important role in the overall economy of Georgia. Casinos and other forms of gaming, both online and live, are licensed and regulated by the state. The minim age to legally gamble in Georgia is 18.

Hong Kong

While gambling is legal in Hong Kong, it is closely monitored and highly regulated by the state. Available options include casinos and horse tracks. Betting with a bookmaker is illegal in the country. The minimum gambling age in Hong Kong is 18.

India

In India, the gambling regulation is left up to individual states. Several states have laws that allow casinos, lotteries and horse race betting. In general, the minimum age to legally gamble in India is 21, while some offshore online casinos do accept Indian players over 18. See a list of the best Indian online casinos here

Indonesia

Indonesia is another Asian country where gambling is illegal. As such, there is no minimum gamble age in place for the time being.

Israel

While Israel is not completely against gambling, the country has very strict laws in place regulating this area. Only allowed types of gambling are lotteries and sports betting operated by the ISBB. There are no casinos or poker rooms in Israel. The minimum gamble age is 18.

Japan

At the moment, most forms of gambling are banned in Japan but this is likely to change as the country is planning to open several casinos. Still, Japanese can bet on horse racing and some other events and they have to be 20 years or older to do it.

Kyrgyzstan

Gambling regulations in Kyrgyzstan have gone through a lot of changes in the recent years, from outright banning all gambling activities to opening casinos only catering to foreigners. Although the situation is quite complex, the minimum gambling age in Kyrgyzstan is still 18.

Laos

Although gambling is technically against the law in Laos, the country has set up special zones where casinos can legally operate despite these restrictions. The minimum age to enter these casinos and play is 18.

Lebanon

Gambling isn’t forbidden in Lebanon but it is strictly limited to regulated land-based casinos. The legal gambling age is 21. However, there are many offshore online operator accepting players from Lebanon, which causes the country to lose millions in revenue each year.

Macau

Known as the gambling hub of Asia, Macau offers numerous casinos featuring all sorts of gambling opportunities from video slots over roulette, baccarat, blackjack, to poker and more. The minimum age to be able to legally gamble in Macau is 21.

Malaysia

In Malaysia, the minimum gamble age is 21. However, the country has very complex gambling laws that prohibit a majority of residents from accessing land-based casinos. However, many online casinos and betting shops are happy to accept patrons from Malaysia.

Maldives

Gambling is illegal in Maldives, so there is no applicable age limit here.

Mongolia

Mongolia is one of few countries that don’t have any gambling laws. So, gambling is neither legal nor illegal – it’s simply not covered by law. Thus, there is no legally defined gambling age limit, which isn’t too big of an issue as there are no licensed casinos in the country, either. However, most online casinos accepting Mongolian players require them to be at least 18 years of age.

Myanmar

Between 1986 and 2019, gambling was illegal in Myanmar. In 2019, new gambling law was finally passed, creating legal opportunities for casinos licensed by the Union Government. However, according to the new law, only foreigners are to be allowed entrance into such casinos and the minimum gamble age is 18.

Northern Cyprus

Gambling is regulated in Northern Cyprus and the country is home to several luxurious casinos attracting locals and tourists alike. Current laws stipulate that the minimum gamble age in Northern Cyprus is 18.

Pakistan

By the letter of law, gambling is forbidden in Pakistan and there are no brick and mortar casinos or similar establishments in the country. However, somehow, horse race betting is allowed and exempt from these restrictions. As for the online casinos accepting players from Pakistan, the minimum gambling age is 18.

Philippines

In the Philippines, all forms of gambling are regulated by the PAGCOR, a state organization that runs a number of casinos and licenses privately-owned venues. When it comes to age restrictions, players have to be at least 21 to enter casinos, while other forms of gambling, such as lotteries, have the minimum age of 18.

Qatar

Qatar is also an Islamic country, which means that all forms of gambling are illegal. There are no legal casinos, poker rooms, or other types of gambling venues in the country. However, there are still offshore sites accepting Qatar players with the usual minimum age requirement of 18.

Russia

Until 2009, gambling was legal in all of Russia. However, in 2009, the country changed its gambling laws, restricting all activities of this type to only four regions selected for this purpose. In these areas, players can enjoy slots, casino table games, and poker, and they have to be at least 18 to enter one of these venues.

Saudi Arabia

Hardly surprising, gambling in all its forms is completely forbidden in Saudi Arabia. There are no casinos in the country and neither residents nor tourists can legally participate in any type of games of chance, be it lottery, sports betting, or anything of the sort.

Singapore

Gambling is legal in Singapore but laws regulating these activities and defining what exactly is legal and not legal are somewhat complex. When it comes to the minimum gamble age, it is 18 for certain activities such as lotteries, while most casinos require players to be at least 21 years of age.

South Korea

South Korea has a rather unique set of gambling laws. There are casinos operating in the country as the government has recognized the enormous economic potential of the gaming industry. However, these casinos are open only to foreigners while country residents can face harsh penalties if they gamble in one of these establishments. As for the minimum legal gambling age for tourists, it is 19.

Syria

There are no casinos or other legal gambling operators in Syria. All forms of gambling are strictly forbidden by the law. However, those wanting to try their luck can still find a number of online operators accepting Syrian players over 18 years old.

Taiwan

Gambling isn’t completely illegal in Taiwan but the only allowed form of gambling is the state-run lottery. The minimum age to gamble in the country is 21.

Thailand

As far as legal gambling is concerned, Thailand only allows betting on horse races. All other forms of gambling have been forbidden in a country since 1935. Still, there are offshore online casinos accepting Thais, with the minimum gamble age of 18.

Tajikistan

Although gambling used to be legal in Tajikistan and the country has had a number of casinos, this is no longer the case. Gambling is currently illegal in Tajikistan. Previous to these changes, the minimum gamble age in the country was 18.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

There are no casinos, bookies, or any other gambling establishments operating legally in the United Arab Emirates. All forms of gambling are completely prohibited in the country, even for foreigners and rich businessmen who frequent Dubai.

Vietnam

Gambling in Vietnam is illegal for the locals. However, there is a number of legal casinos operating in the country, catering primarily to the tourists. The minimum age to enter such venues is 18.

Africa

Gambling laws in Africa are still in the development stages. While some countries have put in the efforts to regulate this sector, there are many still that need to address the issue. This applies to all sorts of regulations, including the minimum gambling age.

Algeria

Algeria is an Islamic country so it is no surprise that gambling is strictly forbidden here. You won’t find any legal casinos operating in the country. However, residents of Algeria over 18 can still find some online operators to gamble with.

Angola

All gambling activities in Angola are defined by the general law. The country doesn’t have a specific set of regulations covering gambling as such so there are numerous casinos operating here without any restrictions. However, the minimum gambling age in Angola is 18 and it is one of few things that have been clearly regulated.

Botswana

Those looking to gamble in Botswana will find quite a few land-based casinos despite the fact this is a fairly small country. The minimum age to enter brick and mortar venues is 18. There are no other forms of gambling offered in Botswana but players are free to play with online sites of their choice.

Burkina Faso

All forms of gambling are regulated by the government in Burkina Faso.  This includes slots, table games, poker, bingo, lotteries, and sports betting. To participate in any of these, players have to be at least 18 years old.

Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

Cote d’Ivoire has a regulated gambling scene. However, there is only one casino operating in the country, offering a limited selection of slots and table games as well as a few poker tables. As for the minimum gambling age in Ivory Coast, it is 18.

Djibouti

Although Djibouti is a predominantly Muslim country, gambling is actually allowed by law. There are several casinos operating in the country. Some of them only allow tourists while others also provide services for the locals. There is nothing in the penal law of Djibouti prohibiting residents from entering these casinos, though, except for the minimum gambling age of 18.

Egypt

Egypt has a somewhat complex gambling law. Residents are only allowed to participate in the state-run lottery (that also offers sports betting) while casinos are open just for tourists. However, many brick and mortar venues still cater to Egyptians. The official minimum gamble age in the country is 21.

Equatorial Guinea

Gambling is quite well regulated in Equatorial Guinea. The country allows casinos with slots and various table games as well as lotteries. The minimum age to gamble here is 18, although age controls aren’t nearly as strict as in most other countries.

Eritrea

Although it isn’t explicitly mentioned in the country’s penal code, gambling is forbidden in Eritrea. There are no casinos, bookies, or any other gaming venues operating in the country.

Ethiopia

Certain forms of gambling are allowed and regulated in Ethiopia. Although there are no brick and mortar casinos operating in the country, there are no legal obstacles for their existence. There is also a state-organized lottery. The minimum age to gamble is 18.

Gabon

Gabon is one of the richest countries in Africa and it has a fairly lively gambling scene. All sorts of gambling activities are allowed, including casinos, lotteries, and betting on horse races. There are no harsh age restriction limits here, although several sources cite 18 years as the minimum gambling age.

Ghana

Gambling in Ghana is regulated by the state’s Gaming Commission, which oversees casinos, sports betting, bingo, scratch cards, and other games of chance. The minimum gambling age in the country is 18.

Guinea

Gambling in Guinea is allowed and regulated by law. The minimum gambling age isn’t clearly defined, though, so this part remains someone unclear.

Guinea Bissau

There is very little information available about gambling laws applicable in Guinea Bissau. This is a predominantly Muslim country, which means that gambling is hardly a welcome activity. However, it is hard to find any additional information about the topic, including the minimum age to gamble in Guinea Bissau.

Libya

Not surprisingly, gambling is not allowed in Libya, You won’t find any casinos or other forms of gambling venues in the country. Thus, there is no minimum gambling age defined by the law, either.

Malawi

Malawi has been working on expanding the gambling offering in the country. The government recognizes gambling as a big economic booster and, as such, strives to provide a welcoming but safe environment for the operators. The minimum gambling age is, in fact, 18, although there are certain sources claiming otherwise.

Mauritania

All forms of gambling are illegal in Mauritania. There are no casinos, bingo halls, or betting shops in the country.

Morocco

Although there is a strong anti-gambling movement in Morocco, the gambling is currently completely legal in the country in its various forms. The minimum age to gamble in Morocco is 18 and there are no restrictions in place for local.

Mozambique

Gambling is legal and regulated in Mozambique. In fact, the new law passed in 2009 removed many of the restrictions, creating a friendlier environment for land-based and online operators alike. When it comes to the minimum gambling age here, the limit is set at 18 and older.

Namibia

In Namibia, gambling is strictly regulated by the government. There are several casino venues in the country and slots are the most popular gaming option. The minimum gambling age prescribed by the law is 21.

Niger

Gambling is legal in Niger but it is limited to a single casino in the country apart from the National Lottery, which is the most popular gambling activity by far. To participate in lotteries, players have to be at least 18, while gambling in a casino is available only to those over 21 years.

Nigeria

Legal gambling in Nigeria is available to those over the gambling age limit, which is 18. However, there are numerous illegal casinos operating in the country, where these legal restrictions may not apply.

Senegal

Senegal has a regulated gambling market that includes casino games, poker, and other activities that belong under the games of chance description. Although this is a predominantly Islamic country, locals are allowed to participate as well as long as they are at least 18 years old.

Seychelles

At the moment, gambling is legal in Seychelles as regulated by the 2014 Gambling Act. Among other provisions, this act contains stipulations with regards to the age gambling limit in Seychelles, which is 18.

Somalia

Gambling is illegal in Somalia and there are absolutely no exceptions to this rule. There is no way for residents or tourists to legally participate in games of chance regardless of their age.

South Africa

Although South Africa has a long history of fighting against gambling, it was finally allowed in 1994. Since 1996, casinos, lotteries, and horse race betting have been licensed by the state. The minimum required age to participate in any of these activities is 18.

South Sudan

Gambling is largely not regulated in South Sudan. It is definitely not illegal as there is a state-operated national lottery. However there are no casinos, poker rooms, or other venues of this type in the country. It is also unclear what the minimum age to gamble here is.

Sudan

Sudan doesn’t condone gambling and it is completely against the law. Of course, there are still many illegal casinos operating in the country but since these are breaking the law as it is, it would be hard to say if they have any minimum age requirements.

Tanzania

All gambling activities in the country are regulated by the Gaming Board of Tanzania. The Board prescribes all relevant laws and rules pertaining to everything that’s considered a game of chance. The minimum age to participate in these activities is 18.

Tunisia

Gambling in Tunisia is illegal, like in a number of other African countries listed here. However, there are some casinos operating in Tunisia, catering only to tourists and accepting exclusively foreign currencies. The minimum age requirement for these casinos is usually 18.

Uganda

Uganda has a number of licensed gambling venues that operate completely within the laws of the country. Gambling is allowed to everyone over the age of 18.

North America

Although the USA is the largest country in North America, there is a number of other smaller states on the continent, each with its own set of laws regulating gambling and determining the minimum legal age to gamble.

Anguilla

There are no particular gambling laws in place here but there are no casinos in the country, either. So, at this moment in time, there is no particular need for the minimum gamble age.

Antigua and Barbuda

Gambling is legal and regulated in Antigua and Barbuda. There are several casinos in the country and table games, especially Caribbean Stud Poker, enjoy a great popularity. Players have to be at least 18 years old to participate in games of chance.

Bahamas

There are several casinos in Bahamas, alongside numerous sports betting parlors. Gambling is legal but technically only for foreigners, who need to be 18. Residents aren’t allowed to legally enter gambling venues in the country.

Barbados

Although gambling isn’t illegal in Barbados, there are no brick and mortar casinos in the country. Available options include national lotteries and a great number of different scratch cards. The minimum legal age to get involved with these is 18.

Belize

Gambling is legal in Belize and there are several international operators with casino sites in the country offering video slots, table games, and more. These are open to all visitors looking to try their luck as long as they’re over 18 years old.

British Virgin Islands

At the moment, gambling isn’t legal in British Virgin Islands. That said, there is a new law in the pipeline, which should regulate casinos and sports betting in the country. Should the new law pass, the minimum gambling age will likely be 18.

Canada

See top of page

Cayman Islands

Different forms of gambling are legal in Cayman Islands. Despite of this, the country has been fighting a long battle against illegal operators for quite some time now. As for the minimum age to legally gamble here, it’s 18.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is well-known in the gambling world as the go-to place for many online operators who set up the shop here. The country has fairly relaxed laws when it comes to gambling and there are several land-based casinos here accepting tourists and locals alike. The minimum age to gamble defined by the law is 18.

Cuba

At the moment, gambling is illegal in Cuba. However, the country was once considered Las Vegas of the Caribbean as it was a home to many luxurious casinos. Castro banned all gambling activities but the US is once again trying to establish the relationship with the country and restore its former fame as the gambling hub in the Caribbean.

Dominica

Certain forms of gambling are legal in Dominica, such as lotteries and pari-mutuel betting. However, there are no casinos in the country and people aren’t allowed to gamble in public spaces. As for those activities regulated by the law, the minimum age is 18.

Dominican Republic

There are numerous gambling establishments operating in the Dominican Republic. Although these were previously only aimed at tourists and foreigners, they are now open to residents as well. The minimum gambling age of 18 applies to everyone.

El Salvador

The situation with gambling in El Salvador is quite peculiar. Although there is a state-wide ban on all gambling activities in the country, there are still numerous casinos that continue to operate out in the open. The government seems to have pretty much given up on trying to enforce a gambling ban. As for the minimum age to gamble, it isn’t clearly defined, either.

Greenland

In Greenland, gambling is regulated in close accordance with gambling laws in place in Denmark. All sorts of gambling activities are legal including online casinos  although there are no brick and mortar casinos physically present in the country. The minimum age to gamble in Greenland is 18.

Guatemala

All forms of gambling except for lotteries are illegal in Guatemala. In terms of online casinos, these aren’t regulated, so Guatemalans can still freely play on the internet as long as a site will have them. The minimum gambling age here is 18.

Haiti

Haiti does offer legal gambling opportunities with several casinos featuring slots, roulette, blackjack, and more. These activities aren’t regulated on the national level, though. As for the age limit, it is 18, like in most North American countries.

Honduras

Gambling is legal and regulated in Honduras. People can visit several casinos located in the country, all offering standard games, from slots to various table games. The minimum age to enter these premises is 18.

Jamaica

Jamaica offers a regulated gambling environment for tourists and residents alike. Everyone is allowed to enter land-based venues but only tourists are technically allowed to wager online. The minimum age to gamble in Jamaica is 18.

Mexico

Mexico offers a great number of land-based casinos as well as numerous betting parlours scattered across the country. Although casinos are primarily aimed at tourists, locals are also welcome to play here. The minimum age requirement currently in place is 18.

Nicaragua

In Nicaragua, gambling is legal and it is controlled by the country’s Ministry of Finance. This ministry controls all games of chance, live and online. To legally participate in games of chance in Nicaragua, you have to be at least 18 years old.

Panama

Panama is one of the more gambling-friendly countries in the world. It serves as the hub for numerous online operators but also hosts a number of brick and mortar casinos, betting shops, and much more. Gambling is an important part of culture in Panama and it is legally offered to everyone over 18 years of age.

Puerto Rico

Those wanting to gamble in Puerto Rico will find a wide array of options, including some that aren’t available in many other countries. There are several casinos here, betting shops, lotteries, and more. The minimum legal gambling age in Puerto Rico is 18.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Gambling in its various forms is completely legal and regulated in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The current law allows different types of physical gaming (casinos, sports betting, and horse betting) as well as online gambling. The age limit is somewhat higher than in most other countries as those wanting to try their luck must be at least 21 years old.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Although gambling was allowed and regulated in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, there are still not many options for tourists or residents here. The minimum gambling age is 18.

Saint Lucia

A law that was passed in 2004 made gambling legal in Saint Lucia and paved the way for opening the only casino currently operating in the country. The minimum age to enter this casino and take part in its offering is 18.

US Virgin Islands

Gambling is allowed and regulated in US Virgin Islands. The minimum age to enter casinos is 21 while other forms of gambling activities have the age limit of 18.

The United States of America

There is no singular law defining the minimum gambling age in the US. States have the right to define these matters on their own and there are even differences from one casino to another in the same state. In most states, the minimum age to enter a casino is 21 although there are a few states where you can gamble as soon as you turn 18. Also, some Indian casinos accept players of 18 years or older.

South America

Most countries in South America don’t have restrictions against gambling. Residents and tourists alike can find many opportunities to try their luck. When it comes to the minimum gambling age, it is usually 18, with a few exceptions.

Argentina

Argentina has a regulated gambling market, both in the country and online. Lately, the gambling industry has been picking up, with more demand for licenses and more companies interested in running a casino in Argentina. The minimum gambling age here is 18.

Aruba

Although Aruba has a strictly regulated gambling market, many rules and laws are not enforced in practice, so the overall gaming environment is quite lax. This applies to the gambling age as well. Legally, you have to be 18 to gamble in Aruba but many casinos don’t bother verifying the age of their patrons.

Bolivia

Since 2011, all gambling activities in Bolivia have been under control of the Gaming Control Authority. Bolivia allows different forms of gaming, included licensed and regulated casino operators. All available games of chance are offered to people 18 years or older.

Brazil

Gambling has been regulated in Brazil for the last few years. The country offers casino gaming and other forms of gambling, with the minimum age requirement of 18.

Chile

In Chile, gambling has been regulated for some time now. The law currently in place regulating this segment was passed in 2004. It covers casinos, sports betting, and the national lottery. For all these activities, the minimum legal age is 18.

Colombia

Gambling in Colombia is under strict supervision from the government and it is regulated by The Gambling Act that was passed in 2001. Instead of licenses, casinos operating in the country are given concessions. The minimum age to gamble in Colombia is 18.

Curacao

Curacao is best-known as one of the main regulatory authorities in the iGaming sector. There are numerous online casinos operating under a license from Curacao. Gambling is also legal in the country itself for everyone over the age of 18.

Ecuador

Gambling used to be legal in Ecuador until 2012 and the minimum age to gamble legally was 18. However, the Executive Decree in 2011 ordered all casinos in the country to shut down by March of 2012. Since then, there’s been no legal gambling activity in Ecuador.

Falkland Islands

Falkland Islands are under the jurisdiction of the UK, so many of the laws applicable in the United Kingdom also apply here. This goes for gambling as well. The small country doesn’t have its own set of gambling laws and there are no casinos here but, in theory, the minimum legal gambling age limit is 18.

French Guiana

Almost all types of gambling are completely legal in French Guiana and available to people over 18 years of age. It has the same gambling laws that are applicable in France.

Guyana

Gambling has been legal and regulated in Guyana since 1902. There are several casinos operating in the country, which only accept tourists. Locals are theoretically forbidden from entering but there is a loophole in the law as guests of hotels with casinos are also allowed to play, even if they aren’t foreigners. The legal gambling age limit is Guyana is 18.

Paraguay

In Paraguay, gambling has been legal and regulated for decades now. The country allows all forms of games of chance, from lotteries, over sports betting and bingo halls, to casino gaming. The online gambling area isn’t particularly regulated. As for the age restrictions, you have to be at least 18 to gamble in Paraguay.

Peru

Different forms of gambling are allowed in Peru, at last in terms of live venues. The online gambling regulation is still in the works. The minimum legal gamble age in Peru is 18.

Suriname

The land-based gambling sector is quite well regulated in Suriname. There are numerous casinos operating in the country alongside popular bingo halls. Residents and tourists can also participate in sports betting and lottery. The minimum legal age to partake in such activities is 18.

Trinidad and Tobago

The legal situation with gambling in Trinidad and Tobago is somewhat murky. The country has regulated all sorts of betting activities but there are no laws in place pertaining to casino gambling. However, there are numerous casinos operating in the country. In general, the minimum age requirement for all forms of gambling activities is 18.

Uruguay

Gambling in all its forms is legal and regulated in Uruguay, available to everyone over the legal age limit of 18. Residents and tourists alike can participate in sports betting, lotteries, and, of course, casino gaming.

Venezuela

Although legal, gambling is quite strictly regulated by the government in Venezuela. The state has monopoly over horse race betting and lotteries and casino licenses aren’t easy to obtain. Operators have to stick to gaming laws, which dictate that all participants have to be at least 18 years of age.

Australia and Oceania

In addition to New Zealand and Australia, there are several smaller sovereign countries in this region. All of them have their own laws and regulations pertaining to different matters. This includes gambling and the minimum required age to participate in such activities.

Australia

In Australia, gambling isn’t just legal but it is quite a popular pastime. Individual states and territories in the country have the right to make their own gambling rules but, in general, there are numerous casinos and other gaming opportunities in Australia. The legal age limit for participating in games of chance is 18.

Federated States of Micronesia

Consisting of more than 600 islands and four states, Federated States of Micronesia don’t have a single gambling law applicable for the entire region. The minimum gambling age is 18 but there are still no casinos here. Some states have been toying with the idea of organized gambling but nothing has materialized thus far.

Kiribati

In Kiribati, gambling has been legal and regulated since 1988. The country allows all forms of gambling for people over 18, at least on paper. However, there are no casinos or other gambling venues operating in the country at this point in time.

Marshall Islands

Apart from a few exceptions of charitable raffles and bingos, gambling isn’t legal in Marshall Islands. There are no legal casinos or betting shops operating in the country.

Naru

Gambling is legal and regulated in Naru, available to everyone over the legal age limit of 18.

New Zealand

It is no secret that Kiwis like to gamble and New Zealand offers all sorts of gambling activities, from casinos featuring popular pokies (slots) and table games, over lotteries, horse race betting, and poker. The minimum gambling age depends on the type of activity. It is 20 for casinos, 18 for on-course horse race betting, and 16 for lotteries. You can see the best online casinos for Kiwis here

Palau

Despite of several attempts to legalize it, gambling remains illegal in Palau. There have been several bills trying to introduce regulated gambling into the country but these didn’t pass. Thus, there is no actual minimum gambling age limit in Palau.

Papua New Guinea

Gambling isn’t against the law in Papua New Guinea but the country doesn’t offer much for those seeking to try their luck. There aren’t any large casinos and land-based gambling is mostly limited to video poker machines in bars. The minimum gambling age in Papuan New Guinea is 18.

Solomon Islands

Being a very popular tourist destination, Solomon Islands allow all sorts of gambling activities. There are several casinos operating in the country, alongside other gaming activities like lotteries and sports betting. The minimum gambling age in Solomon Islands is 18.

Tuvalu

The minimum gambling age in Tuvalu is generally 18. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, people can buy lottery tickets if they’re over 16 and minors can participate in some games of chance with the permission from their parents.

Vanuatu

Gambling is legal and regulated in Vanuatu. Regulations are quite strict and there are several bills that cover the gaming sector. When it comes to the minimum gamble age, it is set at 18 years old.

Conclusion

If you have just hit the legal age in your country to gamble, it is a good idea before playing to read:

Responsible Online Casino Gaming Guide

How to Play Online Casinos

Online Casino Safety & Security Advice