Office No. 18, 9.17 Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8RT
Mon - Fri: 10.00 - 19.00 GTM+2
+38 095 841 41 64
contact@legalpilot.com
CL

Is Gambling Legal in Chile?

Partially Regulated
Land-based casinos and lotteries are regulated; online gambling remains unregulated pending approval of new legislation.
Expert Gambling Regulation Guidance

Professional consultation on gambling regulations and legal compliance requirements for operators




    Key Information Highlights Legislation Timeline Requirements Sources

    Key Information

    Last Update 2025
    Regulatory Authority Superintendence of Casinos, Betting and Gaming
    License Cost Varies

    Regulation by Activity Type

    Casinos Regulated
    Online Casinos Unregulated
    Betting Regulated
    Online Betting Unregulated
    Lotteries Regulated
    Poker Regulated

    Highlights

    • Land-based casinos in Chile are regulated under Law 19.995, allowing only 24 licensed brick-and-mortar casinos and cruise casinos.
    • Online gambling is currently unregulated; no government-issued licenses exist for online casinos or betting as of 2025.
    • A bill to regulate online gambling and sports betting was introduced in 2022 and is progressing through the legislative process.
    • The proposed bill would establish a 20% gross gaming revenue tax for online operators and require annual licensing fees.
    • Online bookmakers under the bill must contribute 2% of annual gross income to the National Sports Federation.
    • At least 1% of operators’ annual gross revenue would be allocated to responsible gambling initiatives under the proposed law.
    • The Superintendency of Casinos, Betting, and Gaming would oversee both land-based and online gambling if the bill passes.
    Technical Compliance Assistance

    Our specialists will help you understand technical compliance requirements for gambling operations




      Legislation

      Primary Legislation

      The core legal framework governing gambling in Chile is established by several key legislative acts. The principal law is Law No. 19.995, which regulates the operation of casinos, lotteries, and physical betting establishments throughout the country. This law sets out the general provisions for the authorization, supervision, and functioning of land-based gaming activities. While Law No. 19.995 forms the backbone of Chile’s gambling regulation for physical venues, it does not extend to online gambling, creating a regulatory gap for digital platforms. To address the lack of regulation in the online sector, Bill 035/2022 was introduced. This bill aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for online casinos and sports betting platforms, including provisions for licensing, regulatory oversight, and responsible gambling measures. As of the latest legislative developments, Bill 035/2022 has passed key stages in the Chamber of Deputies and awaits further approval. Until the bill is enacted, online gambling remains largely unregulated under current Chilean law.

      Regulatory Authority

      Oversight and enforcement of gambling regulations in Chile are primarily the responsibility of the Superintendence of Casinos, Betting, and Gaming (Superintendencia de Casinos de Juego). This authority is tasked with supervising compliance with all applicable gambling laws, ensuring the integrity of gaming operations, and protecting consumers. The proposed legislation for online gambling would expand the remit of this regulatory body to cover digital platforms and online betting activities.
      • Supervision and enforcement of gambling legislation for land-based casinos and betting establishments
      • Implementation and oversight of future online gambling regulations, pending legislative approval
      • Protection of consumer interests and promotion of responsible gambling practices

      License Types

      Types of Gambling Licenses Available in Chile

      • Land-Based Casino Licenses: Currently, Chile issues licenses exclusively for the operation of 24 brick-and-mortar casinos and for casinos on cruise ships. No other forms of land-based gambling (such as betting shops or arcades) are licensed under the current system.
      • Online Gambling Licenses: As of April 2025, there is no established licensing regime for online casinos or sports betting platforms. However, a legislative bill is under consideration that would introduce a comprehensive licensing system for online gambling, including both casino games and sports betting (excluding lottery games).

      Application Process and Duration

      • Land-Based Casinos:
        • Licenses are granted through a public tender process managed by the national casino authority.
        • Applicants must submit detailed proposals covering technical, financial, and operational plans.
        • Licenses are typically granted for a fixed term, with renewal subject to regulatory review and compliance.
      • Online Gambling (Proposed System):
        • Operators would need to apply during a designated 60-day licensing window set by the regulator.
        • After this window, no new licenses would be issued for two years to allow for industry consolidation.
        • Licenses would be valid for five years, with renewal options available upon meeting regulatory requirements.
        • A temporary six-month license provision is included for certain cases.

      Eligibility and Key Requirements

      • Land-Based Casinos:
        • Applicants must demonstrate financial solvency, a clean legal record, and relevant industry experience.
        • Detailed business plans, security measures, and responsible gaming policies are required.
        • Background checks on key personnel and shareholders are mandatory.
      • Online Gambling (Proposed System):
        • Applicants must be legal entities with proven financial capacity and technical expertise.
        • Submission of robust anti-money laundering, player protection, and responsible gaming frameworks is required.
        • Operators must exclude lottery games from their offerings.
        • Compliance with ongoing reporting, auditing, and player verification standards is mandatory.

      Licensing Costs and Financial Requirements

      • Land-Based Casinos:
        • Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee and, if successful, annual licensing fees. The exact amounts depend on the location and size of the casino.
        • Significant financial guarantees or bonds may be required to ensure compliance and operational stability.
      • Online Gambling (Proposed System):
        • An annual license fee of approximately US$70,000 is proposed for online operators.
        • Additional financial requirements include maintaining sufficient capital reserves and providing guarantees as stipulated by the regulator.

      Renewal Conditions and Ongoing Obligations

      • Land-Based Casinos:
        • Licenses can be renewed upon demonstrating continued compliance with all regulatory, financial, and operational requirements.
        • Failure to meet standards may result in suspension or revocation of the license.
      • Online Gambling (Proposed System):
        • Renewal is subject to a comprehensive review of the operator’s compliance history and adherence to regulatory standards.
        • Operators must maintain up-to-date responsible gaming measures, anti-fraud systems, and regular reporting to the regulator.

      Summary Table: Key Features of Chile’s Gambling Licensing System

      License Type Application Window Duration Annual Fee Key Requirements Renewal
      Land-Based Casino Public tender (as announced) Fixed term (varies) Varies by location/size Financial, operational, and legal due diligence Subject to compliance review
      Online Casino & Sports Betting (Proposed) 60-day window (proposed) 5 years (renewable) ~US$70,000 Financial capacity, technical standards, responsible gaming Compliance-based renewal
       

      Gambling Tax

      Tax Rates for Gambling Operators in Chile

      The taxation system for gambling operators in Chile varies depending on the type of gambling activity, with distinct provisions proposed for online gambling under pending legislation.
      Type of Gambling Tax Rate Tax Base Additional Levies
      Online Gambling (proposed) 20% Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) 2% of annual gross income to National Sports Federation 1% of annual gross income to responsible gambling initiatives
      Land-Based Casinos Not specified in current search results Not specified Not specified
      • Online gambling operators would also be subject to an annual fixed fee of approximately US$70,000.
      • Players would be subject to a 15% monthly winnings tax (not directly paid by operators, but relevant for operator reporting).

      Basis for Taxation

      • The primary basis for taxation for online gambling operators is Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), defined as the difference between the amount wagered and the amount paid out to players as winnings.
      • Additional levies (2% and 1%) are calculated on annual gross income.

      Tax Reporting and Payment Requirements

      • Operators must calculate and remit 20% of their GGR as tax to the relevant authority.
      • Separate payments of 2% (to the National Sports Federation) and 1% (to approved responsible gambling initiatives) are required annually.
      • Operators are responsible for collecting and remitting the 15% winnings tax from players’ monthly winnings.
      • Detailed reporting procedures and payment schedules will be established by the regulator once the legislation is enacted, with a 180-day period anticipated for implementation of full regulations after the law’s passage.

      Tax Incentives, Exemptions, and Special Provisions

      • No specific tax incentives or exemptions for gambling operators are detailed in the proposed framework.
      • Mandatory contributions (2% and 1%) are earmarked for sports and responsible gambling, functioning as special provisions rather than exemptions.
      • There are no indications of reduced rates or special deductions for particular types of operators or activities in the proposed system.
       

      Prohibited Individuals

      Age Restrictions and Identification Requirements

      • The minimum legal age to participate in gambling activities in Chile is 18 years old. All land-based casinos and licensed gambling venues are required to verify the age of players to prevent minors from participating.
      • Identification checks are mandatory at entry points to casinos and gambling establishments. Players must present valid government-issued identification to confirm their age and identity before being allowed to gamble.

      Prohibited Activities and Game Restrictions

      • Unauthorized gambling activities are strictly prohibited. Only licensed brick-and-mortar casinos and two national lotteries are permitted to operate legally.
      • Online casino gambling and sports betting are currently not regulated or licensed by the Chilean government. Offshore online gambling operators are not officially authorized, and their activities are considered outside the scope of local regulation.
      • Lottery games are exclusively reserved for the two national lottery operators; other entities are not permitted to offer lottery products.
      • Unlicensed gambling, including unapproved games or operations outside designated venues, is not allowed and subject to enforcement actions.

      Advertising and Marketing Limitations

      • Advertising of unlicensed gambling operations, including offshore online casinos and betting platforms, is prohibited.
      • Licensed gambling operators must comply with strict advertising standards to prevent targeting minors and vulnerable groups.
      • Marketing materials must not depict gambling as a means to solve financial problems or promote excessive gambling behavior.
      • Advertising is restricted in media and locations where it could be seen by minors or individuals at risk of gambling harm.

      Responsible Gambling Requirements and Player Protection Measures

      • Licensed casinos are required to implement responsible gambling programs, including the provision of information on the risks of gambling and the availability of support services for problem gambling.
      • Operators must display clear signage and provide accessible resources for self-exclusion and seeking help for gambling-related issues.
      • There are requirements for staff training to identify and assist players showing signs of gambling problems.
      • Operators are obligated to allocate a portion of their gross revenues to fund responsible gambling initiatives and player protection measures.

      Geographic and Location Restrictions for Gambling Venues

      • Land-based casinos are only permitted to operate in designated locations as authorized by the national regulator. The number and location of these venues are strictly controlled.
      • Casinos are not allowed to be established near schools, religious institutions, or other sensitive areas to minimize exposure to vulnerable populations.
      • Mobile or temporary gambling venues are not permitted outside the regulated framework, except for licensed casino operations on cruise ships under specific conditions.
      Gambling Regulatory Consultation

      Get expert advice on gambling regulations and operational requirements




        Timeline

        Year/Date Event
        1852 First national lottery established in Chile, marking the beginning of state involvement in gambling activities.
        1928 Law No. 6,295 enacted, providing the initial legal framework for lotteries and games of chance.
        1979 Law No. 18,110 passed, regulating horse racing and pari-mutuel betting in Chile.
        1995 Law No. 19,199 enacted, introducing comprehensive regulation for brick-and-mortar casinos and establishing the basis for modern casino licensing in Chile.
        2005 Law No. 19,995 adopted, creating the Superintendence of Casinos (SCJ) and setting up a competitive licensing system for land-based casinos.
        2015 Law No. 20,856 passed, modifying casino regulations and extending casino licenses under certain conditions.
        2022 Bill 035/2022 introduced in March, aiming to regulate online gambling and sports betting, addressing the previously unregulated online sector.
        2023 Bill 035/2022 approved by the Economic Commission of the Chamber of Deputies, moving forward in the legislative process for online gambling regulation.
        2024–2025 Ongoing legislative review and debate on the online gambling bill, with the sector remaining unregulated pending final approval.

        Requirements

        Software Certification and Technical Standards

        • Operators must ensure all gaming software is certified by an independent, accredited testing laboratory to guarantee fairness, randomness, and compliance with technical standards set by the regulator.
        • Technical systems must support secure, auditable transactions and be capable of providing real-time data to the regulatory authority upon request.
        • Gaming platforms should implement robust system integrity controls, including regular vulnerability assessments and intrusion detection mechanisms.
        • All critical gaming and financial data must be encrypted in transit and at rest, following industry best practices for cryptographic security.

        Data Protection, Privacy Measures, and Server Location

        • Operators are required to comply with national data protection laws, ensuring that all personal and financial data of players is securely stored and processed.
        • Personal data must be retained only for as long as necessary for regulatory, anti-fraud, and operational purposes, and must be protected from unauthorized access or breaches.
        • Operational servers, including those hosting player data and gaming transactions, must be located within Chile or in jurisdictions approved by the regulator to ensure oversight and data sovereignty.
        • Operators must maintain comprehensive privacy policies, inform users about data processing practices, and provide mechanisms for users to exercise their data rights.

        Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) Procedures

        • Operators are required to implement rigorous KYC procedures, verifying the identity, age, and source of funds of all players before allowing participation in gambling activities.
        • Ongoing monitoring of player transactions is mandatory to detect and report suspicious or unusual activity in line with national AML regulations.
        • Operators must maintain detailed records of all player transactions, KYC documentation, and AML investigations for a period specified by the regulator.
        • Staff must be trained regularly on AML obligations, and operators must appoint a dedicated AML compliance officer responsible for reporting to the regulator.

        Financial Reporting, Auditing Standards, and Record-Keeping

        • Operators must submit regular financial reports to the regulatory authority, including detailed breakdowns of gaming revenue, player balances, and payout ratios.
        • Annual independent audits of financial statements and gaming systems are required to ensure transparency and compliance with regulatory standards.
        • All transaction logs, player account histories, and financial records must be securely stored and made available to the regulator upon request for a period defined by law.
        • Operators must implement robust internal controls to prevent fraud, misappropriation of funds, and ensure accurate financial reporting.

        Technical Implementation Requirements for Responsible Gambling Tools

        • Operators are obligated to provide technical tools that enable players to set deposit, loss, and time limits on their accounts.
        • Self-exclusion mechanisms must be available and technically enforced, preventing excluded individuals from accessing gambling services.
        • Responsible gambling messaging and access to support resources must be integrated into all gaming platforms and visible to users at all times.
        • Operators must allocate a specified percentage of gross revenue to the development and maintenance of responsible gambling initiatives and ensure their technical implementation meets regulatory standards.

        Sources

        Primary Regulatory Authorities

        Legislation Resources

        Contact Information

        • Superintendencia de Casinos de Juego (SCJ): Address: Morandé 360, piso 11, Santiago, Chile Phone: +56 2 2589 3000
        Navigate Gambling Regulations Successfully

        Professional guidance on regulatory compliance for gambling operations




          Bahamas Canada

          Important Information Notice

          Gambling regulations are subject to change. The information provided on this page was accurate at the time of publication, but may not reflect the current regulatory landscape. Always consult official sources for the most up-to-date information before making any gambling-related decisions.

          Last updated: 16 July 2025