Gambling is regulated with a comprehensive legal framework covering online and land-based activities, enforced by strict licensing and consumer protection measures.
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Regulatory AuthorityDirección de Casinos y Juegos de Azar (DCJA), Ministry of Finance
License CostVaries
Regulation by Activity Type
Casinos
Regulated
Online Casinos
Regulated
Betting
Regulated
Online Betting
Regulated
Lotteries
Regulated
Poker
Regulated
Highlights
Gambling in Dominica is regulated under the Gambling (Gaming and Betting) Act, which governs all forms of gaming activity.
A government-issued license is required for any gambling operator to legally offer services in Dominica.
The Financial Services Unit (FSU) acts as the main regulatory authority for licensing and supervision of gambling activities.
Online gambling is permitted, but operators must meet strict compliance and anti-money laundering standards.
Taxation of gambling revenues is mandated, with rates and obligations set by national legislation and subject to periodic review.
Operators must implement responsible gambling measures, including age verification and player protection protocols.
Unlicensed gambling operations are prohibited, and violators face significant penalties under Dominica's legal framework.
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Legislation
Primary Legislation
The legal framework governing gambling in Dominica is established primarily through the following key legislative acts:
Resolution No. 136-2024: This is the most recent and comprehensive regulation, issued by the Ministry of Finance in March 2024. It provides the core legal structure for online gambling, including online casinos and sports betting. The resolution outlines the regulatory requirements for operators and introduces measures for responsible gaming, such as session controls and self-exclusion mechanisms. It replaces and updates previous frameworks to ensure a more robust and modern regulatory environment for online gambling.
Law No. 139-11: This law previously established the foundational legal framework for gambling activities, particularly focusing on the regulation and taxation of land-based casinos and gaming operations. While its provisions influenced earlier online gambling regulation, the sector is now primarily governed by Resolution No. 136-2024.
Law No. 494-06: This law also contributed to the legal foundation for gambling regulation in Dominica, particularly in relation to the oversight and operation of gaming activities prior to the introduction of the new resolution.
These legislative acts collectively form the backbone of Dominica’s gambling legal structure, with Resolution No. 136-2024 now serving as the principal regulation for online gambling activities.
Regulatory Authority
Oversight and enforcement of gambling legislation in Dominica are the responsibility of a central regulatory body:
Directorate of Casinos and Gaming (DCJA): Operating under the Ministry of Finance, the DCJA is the primary authority tasked with supervising all gambling activities, including both land-based and online operations. The Directorate is responsible for ensuring compliance with the relevant laws, implementing responsible gaming measures, and taking enforcement actions against illegal or unlicensed gambling activities.
The DCJA also plays a key role in developing and updating regulatory policies to adapt to changes in the gambling industry and to safeguard player interests.
The combination of these legislative instruments and the centralized regulatory authority ensures that gambling in Dominica is governed by a clear and enforceable legal framework.
License Types
Types of Gambling Licenses Available in Dominica
Online Casino License: Permits the operation of online casino games, including slots, table games, and related interactive gaming activities.
Online Sports Betting License: Authorizes the provision of online sports betting services, covering a wide range of sporting events and markets.
Application Process for Gambling Licenses
All applications are submitted to the Directorate of Casinos and Gaming (DCJA), under the Ministry of Finance.
Applicants must provide detailed documentation, including company structure, proof of financial stability, business plans, and compliance policies.
Background checks are conducted on company directors, shareholders, and key personnel to ensure suitability and integrity.
Applicants must demonstrate robust responsible gaming measures, such as session duration displays, betting limits, and self-exclusion mechanisms.
Once submitted, applications are reviewed by the DCJA, which may request additional information or clarifications before granting approval.
License Duration, Renewal, and Eligibility
Each license is valid for five years from the date of issuance.
Licenses are non-transferable for the first three years.
Renewal applications must be submitted prior to the expiration date, demonstrating continued compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Eligibility is limited to entities that can prove financial stability, integrity of management, and adherence to responsible gaming principles.
Licensing Costs and Financial Requirements
The initial cost for obtaining an online casino or sports betting license is set at $346,000.
There is an annual licensing fee of $200,000 payable by all licensed operators.
Operators must maintain sufficient capital reserves to ensure ongoing operations and player protection.
Key Requirements for Obtaining and Maintaining Licenses
Implementation of responsible gaming tools, including session time displays, betting limits, and self-exclusion options.
Strict anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) procedures must be in place and regularly updated.
Operators are required to cooperate with regulatory audits and inspections conducted by the DCJA.
All gaming platforms must use certified software and undergo regular technical testing for fairness and security.
Failure to comply with regulatory requirements may result in suspension or revocation of the license.
Gambling Tax
Gambling Operator Tax Rates in Dominica
As of 2025, there is no publicly available evidence of a specific, dedicated gambling tax regime or published tax rates that apply exclusively to gambling operators in Dominica. General corporate and income tax rates apply to businesses operating in the country, including those in the gambling sector.
Applicable Tax Rates
Type of Tax
Tax Rate
Tax Base
Corporate Income Tax
25%
Net profits (worldwide income for residents)
Withholding Tax on Dividends
15%
Dividends paid by companies
Dominica does not have a separate gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax or turnover-based tax specifically for gambling operators.
Corporate income tax is levied on net profits after allowable business deductions.
Dividends paid by companies are subject to a 15% withholding tax, but individuals receiving dividends are exempt from further tax on those dividends.
Tax Reporting and Payment Procedures
Companies, including gambling operators, must file annual corporate tax returns disclosing all income, expenses, and deductions.
Tax returns are generally due within three months after the end of the company’s financial year.
Corporate income tax is payable based on the net profit declared in the annual tax return.
Withholding tax on dividends must be remitted to the tax authorities when dividends are distributed.
Tax Incentives, Exemptions, and Special Provisions
There are no published tax incentives or exemptions specifically targeted at gambling operators.
General business deductions are available for legitimate business expenses, which may include operational costs, interest on business loans, and certain approved donations.
Income from the sale of real estate is exempt from both income tax and capital gains tax.
Prohibited Individuals
Age Restrictions and Identification Requirements
Gambling operators in Dominica are required to enforce strict age restrictions to prevent underage gambling. Only individuals who are at least 18 years old are permitted to participate in gambling activities. Operators must implement robust identification and verification procedures to confirm the age and identity of all players before allowing access to gambling services. This includes requiring valid government-issued identification documents during registration and prior to any financial transactions.
Prohibited Activities and Game Restrictions
Sports betting is permitted exclusively through officially registered and authorized outlets; any betting with unlicensed operators is strictly prohibited.
Unlicensed gambling activities, including both land-based and online operations, are banned and subject to enforcement actions.
Operators are prohibited from offering gambling products or services that are not explicitly authorized by the Dirección de Casinos y Juegos de Azar (DCJA).
There are specific restrictions against illegal sports betting and unauthorized online gambling platforms, with increased inspections and legal actions targeting violators.
Advertising and Marketing Limitations
Advertising of gambling services is restricted to licensed operators only; unlicensed entities are forbidden from promoting their services.
All marketing and promotional materials must comply with responsible gambling standards, avoiding content that targets minors or vulnerable individuals.
Operators are required to include responsible gambling messages in their advertisements and must not make misleading claims about winning chances or potential financial gains.
Promotional activities that encourage excessive or irresponsible gambling behavior are not permitted.
Responsible Gambling Requirements and Player Protection Measures
Operators must provide self-exclusion options, allowing players to voluntarily restrict their own access to gambling services for a defined period.
Mandatory self-limitation tools must be available, enabling players to set personal limits on deposits, losses, and session durations.
Operators are required to display clear information on session duration and betting activity to help players manage their gambling behavior.
Collaboration with regulatory authorities is mandated to ensure ongoing monitoring and enforcement of responsible gambling measures.
Operators must provide access to support resources and information for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm.
Geographic and Location Restrictions
Sports betting and other regulated gambling activities can only be conducted through officially licensed and authorized physical venues or online platforms approved by the DCJA.
Participation in gambling activities offered by unlicensed venues or unauthorized online platforms is strictly forbidden and may result in administrative or criminal penalties.
Operators are required to restrict access to their services from jurisdictions where gambling is not permitted or where the operator does not hold the necessary authorization.
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Timeline
Year/Date
Event
2006
Initial regulation of online gambling introduced in the Dominican Republic, establishing a legal framework for internet gaming activities.
2011
The first online gambling license issued to Amaya, marking the beginning of licensed online gaming operations.
2011
Enactment of Ley 139-11, further developing the legal structure for gambling, including provisions for online and land-based casinos.
2017
Amaya, the sole online license holder, rebrands as The Stars Group after corporate changes.
2019
The Stars Group is acquired by Flutter Entertainment, continuing licensed online gambling operations in the country.
March 14, 2024
Resolution No. 136-2024 is issued by the Ministry of Finance, introducing a comprehensive regulatory regime for online casinos and sports betting, including responsible gaming measures and updated licensing requirements.
March 26, 2024
Resolution 136-2024 is officially signed into law, marking the start of a new era for regulated online gambling in the Dominican Republic.
Requirements
Software Certification and Technical Standards
All gambling software used by operators must be certified by recognized independent testing laboratories to ensure fairness, randomness, and compliance with established technical standards.
Technical systems must be capable of providing transparent and auditable records of all gaming transactions, including bet placements, outcomes, and payouts.
Operators are required to implement robust technical controls to prevent manipulation, fraud, and unauthorized access to gaming systems.
Regular technical audits and system integrity checks are mandated to verify ongoing compliance with regulatory standards.
Data Protection, Privacy Measures, and Server Location
Operators must implement comprehensive data protection protocols to safeguard player information, including encryption of personal and financial data both in transit and at rest.
Strict privacy measures are required, ensuring that player data is only accessible to authorized personnel and is not shared with third parties without explicit consent or legal requirement.
Operators must maintain secure server infrastructure, with requirements for data storage within approved jurisdictions to facilitate regulatory oversight and data access by authorities.
Disaster recovery and data backup systems must be in place to ensure business continuity and data integrity.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) Procedures
Comprehensive AML programs are mandatory, including automated monitoring of transactions for suspicious activity and prompt reporting to relevant authorities.
Operators must conduct thorough KYC checks, verifying the identity, age, and source of funds for all players before allowing participation in gambling activities.
Enhanced due diligence is required for high-risk customers and transactions that exceed specified thresholds.
All AML and KYC procedures must be documented, regularly reviewed, and updated in line with evolving regulatory requirements.
Financial Reporting, Auditing Standards, and Record-Keeping
Operators are required to maintain accurate and detailed financial records of all transactions, including deposits, withdrawals, bets, and payouts.
Periodic financial reporting to the regulatory authority is mandatory, following prescribed formats and timelines.
Annual independent audits of financial statements and operational systems must be conducted by certified auditors to ensure transparency and regulatory compliance.
Records must be securely stored and readily accessible for inspection by regulators for a minimum retention period as specified by law.
Technical Implementation Requirements for Responsible Gambling Tools
Operators must integrate responsible gambling features within their platforms, including session duration displays, deposit and betting limits, and self-exclusion options.
Technical systems must allow players to set personal limits and opt for self-exclusion, with immediate effect and robust enforcement.
Automated alerts and notifications are required to inform players when they approach or exceed established limits or demonstrate risky gambling behavior.
Operators must ensure that responsible gambling tools are easily accessible and functional across all devices and platforms.
Dirección de Casinos y Juegos de Azar (DCJA)
Av. México No. 45, Edificio de Oficinas Gubernamentales Juan Pablo Duarte, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Phone: +1 (809) 687-5131
Email: info@casinos.gob.do
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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.
