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
GY

Is Gambling Legal in Guyana?

Partially Regulated
Land-based casinos, lotteries, and some betting are legal and regulated, but most gambling, especially online, remains largely unregulated.
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 Ministry of Home Affairs
    License Cost Varies

    Regulation by Activity Type

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

    Highlights

    • Gambling in Guyana is primarily regulated by the Gambling Prevention Act of 1902, with key amendments in 2012.
    • The Gaming Authority, established in 2008, oversees licensing and supervision of casinos, betting shops, and lotteries.
    • The number of casino licenses is capped by law, but planned legislative changes may allow more casinos soon.
    • Online gambling lacks specific regulation, leaving most internet gambling activities unregulated but accessible.
    • Government-run lotteries are regulated separately under the Government Lotteries Act of 1963.
    • Sports betting is legal and licensed, but only through land-based operators such as casinos and betting shops.
    • Licensed gambling operators must pay monthly betting taxes, with returns submitted to the Guyana Revenue Authority.
    Technical Compliance Assistance

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




      Legislation

      Primary Legislation

      The principal legal framework governing gambling in Guyana consists of several key statutes:
      • Gambling Prevention Act (1902, as amended): This is the foundational law for gambling regulation in Guyana, originally prohibiting most forms of gambling but subsequently amended to allow certain activities. The most recent significant amendment was in 2012. The Act now permits and regulates land-based casinos, betting shops, and other forms of wagering, but does not comprehensively address online gambling.
      • Government Lotteries Act (1963): This separate piece of legislation specifically governs the operation of government-run lotteries in Guyana. It provides the legal basis for the establishment and management of lottery games, distinct from the broader gambling laws.
      • Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act (2009, as amended): While not exclusively a gambling law, this Act imposes compliance and oversight obligations on gambling operators to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing within the sector.
      Together, these statutes form the core of Guyana’s gambling legal structure, with the Gambling Prevention Act and Government Lotteries Act providing the main regulatory framework for land-based gambling activities and lotteries, while anti-money laundering legislation addresses financial crime risks in the industry.

      Regulatory Authority

      Oversight of gambling activities in Guyana is primarily the responsibility of the Gaming Authority of Guyana. This body was established to supervise and regulate casinos, betting shops, and lotteries, ensuring compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.
      • Supervision and regulation of land-based casinos, betting shops, and government lotteries
      • Enforcement of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements within the gambling sector
      • Ensuring operators adhere to the provisions of the Gambling Prevention Act and related legislation
      The Gaming Authority operates as the central regulatory body, with a mandate to maintain the integrity of the gambling sector and safeguard public interests as set out in the primary legislation.

      License Types

      Types of Gambling Licenses in Guyana

      • Casino Licenses: Issued for the operation of land-based casinos. The number of licenses is currently capped by law, though amendments are under consideration to allow more casinos, particularly in conjunction with hotel developments.
      • Betting Shop Licenses: Granted for the operation of betting shops and gambling halls, including sports betting establishments.
      • Lottery Licenses: Governed separately under the Government Lotteries Act, these licenses are primarily for government-run lotteries.

      Application Process

      • Applications for casino and betting shop licenses must be submitted to the Gaming Authority of Guyana, which serves as the supervisory body for gambling operations.
      • Applicants are required to provide comprehensive documentation, including business plans, proof of financial capacity, and details of ownership and management structures.
      • Background checks are conducted on key personnel to ensure suitability and integrity.
      • For casino licenses, there is a requirement that the casino be part of a hotel development, as per current policy linking casino operations to tourism infrastructure.

      Duration and Renewal Conditions

      • Licenses are typically issued for a fixed period, often one year, after which they must be renewed.
      • Renewal requires submission of updated documentation and continued compliance with all regulatory requirements.
      • The Gaming Authority reviews operational conduct and financial records before granting renewal.

      Eligibility Requirements

      • Applicants must be legal entities registered in Guyana.
      • Key personnel and shareholders must pass fit and proper tests, including criminal background and financial integrity checks.
      • For casino licenses, the applicant must demonstrate the capacity to operate a hotel of a specified standard, as casino licenses are tied to hotel developments.
      • Applicants must show proof of sufficient capital and financial resources to sustain operations.

      Licensing Costs and Financial Requirements

      • There are application fees for each license type, payable to the Gaming Authority upon submission of the application.
      • Successful applicants are required to pay an annual licensing fee, the amount of which varies depending on the type and scale of operation.
      • Additional financial requirements may include the provision of a security bond or guarantee to cover potential liabilities.
      • Operators must maintain transparent financial records and submit to regular audits as part of ongoing compliance.

      Key Requirements for Obtaining and Maintaining Licenses

      • Strict adherence to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations, as monitored by the Gaming Authority.
      • Implementation of responsible gambling measures and consumer protection protocols.
      • Regular reporting to the Gaming Authority, including operational and financial disclosures.
      • Maintenance of operational standards, including fair gaming practices and security measures.

      Summary Table: Licensing Overview

      License Type Application Body Main Requirements Duration Fees
      Casino License Gaming Authority Hotel development, fit and proper tests, financial capacity 1 year (renewable) Application + Annual fee (amount varies)
      Betting Shop License Gaming Authority Business registration, fit and proper tests, financial capacity 1 year (renewable) Application + Annual fee (amount varies)
      Lottery License Government (separate authority) Government-run or approved operator Varies Set by government
       

      Gambling Tax

      Tax Rates for Gambling Operators in Guyana

      Guyana’s taxation system for gambling operators is primarily focused on casino gaming, as this is the main form of regulated gambling in the country. The tax regime is structured as follows:
      Type of Gambling Operation Tax Rate Basis for Taxation
      Casino Operator Not publicly specified in available legislation or official guidance Typically based on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) or fixed annual license fees, but precise rates are not published
      Gambling Machines (per unit) Not publicly specified
      The specific tax rates, including percentages or fixed amounts for casino operators and gambling machines, are not detailed in the publicly available legislation or regulatory guidance. The Gambling Prevention Act and its amendments focus on licensing and operational requirements, with tax obligations generally determined by the Gaming Authority and relevant regulations.

      Basis for Taxation

      • Taxation is generally presumed to be on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) or through fixed annual license fees, as is standard in comparable jurisdictions.

      Tax Reporting and Payment Requirements

      • Casino operators are required to maintain accurate records of all gaming activities and revenues.
      • Operators must submit regular reports to the Guyana Gaming Authority, detailing financial performance and gaming activity.
      • Payment of taxes or license fees is typically due annually or as stipulated by the conditions of the operator's license.
      • Failure to comply with reporting or payment requirements can result in significant fines and potential suspension or revocation of the license.

      Tax Incentives, Exemptions, and Special Provisions

      • There are no publicly documented tax incentives or exemptions specific to gambling operators in Guyana.
      • All casino operations are subject to the same general tax and fee structure as determined by the Gaming Authority.
      • Any special provisions or incentives would be at the discretion of the Gaming Authority and are not specified in the available legislation.
      Note: The lack of published, detailed tax rates and procedures means that operators must consult directly with the Guyana Gaming Authority or engage local legal counsel for definitive, up-to-date tax obligations. The information above reflects the most current and reliable public sources as of April 2025.

      Prohibited Individuals

      Age Restrictions and Identification Requirements

      Guyana imposes a minimum age requirement for participation in gambling activities, typically set at 18 years or older. Operators are expected to verify the age of participants, especially in licensed physical venues such as casinos and lottery outlets. However, due to limited regulatory oversight and the lack of comprehensive digital regulations, enforcement of age verification for online gambling is inconsistent and may be insufficient.

      Prohibited Activities and Game Restrictions

      • Operating or participating in common gaming houses (unlicensed gambling venues) is strictly prohibited and subject to fines or imprisonment.
      • Lotteries not sanctioned by the government are illegal. The sale, distribution, or advertisement of unauthorized lottery tickets is forbidden, regardless of whether the lottery is conducted within or outside Guyana.
      • Gambling or betting in public places or in premises licensed for the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited, and violators may be fined or imprisoned.
      • Using any premises for gambling or betting without the explicit permission of the owner or occupier is not allowed and is punishable by law.
      • There are no explicit prohibitions on specific casino games, but all gambling activities must be conducted in accordance with the law and only in licensed venues.

      Advertising and Marketing Limitations

      • Advertising or distributing materials related to unauthorized lotteries is prohibited. The Postmaster General has the authority to confiscate such advertisements and lottery tickets.
      • There are no comprehensive, modern restrictions on the advertising or marketing of licensed gambling operations. However, any promotion of illegal gambling activities is strictly forbidden.
      • Due to the lack of regulation for online gambling, there are currently no specific advertising restrictions for internet-based operators, which may expose players to unregulated and potentially unsafe services.

      Responsible Gambling Requirements and Player Protection Measures

      • Guyana lacks a robust framework for responsible gambling and player protection, particularly in the online sector. There are minimal statutory requirements for operators to implement self-exclusion, deposit limits, or offer problem gambling support.
      • The absence of consumer protection measures in much of the industry leaves players vulnerable to unfair practices, financial losses, and lack of recourse in disputes with operators.
      • Licensed land-based venues may implement basic player protection measures, but these are not uniformly mandated or enforced by law.
      • There is no dedicated national helpline or formal support infrastructure for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm.

      Geographic and Location Restrictions

      • Physical gambling operations, such as casinos, are only permitted in licensed venues that have obtained the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
      • Gambling or betting is not allowed in public spaces or in premises licensed for the sale of alcoholic beverages.
      • There are no explicit geographic restrictions for online gambling, but the lack of regulation means players may access offshore or unlicensed sites at their own risk.
      Gambling Regulatory Consultation

      Get expert advice on gambling regulations and operational requirements




        Timeline

        Year/Date Event
        1902 Gambling Prevention Act enacted, establishing the first legal framework for gambling in Guyana; most forms of gambling banned except lotteries and pool betting.
        1963 Government Lotteries Act introduced, providing separate regulation for state-run lotteries.
        2007 Casinos legalized for the first time as part of efforts to boost tourism and the economy.
        December 1, 2008 Gaming Authority of Guyana launched to oversee betting shops, casinos, and lotteries.
        2009 Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act enacted, with the Gaming Authority designated as a supervisory authority for gambling-related compliance.
        2010 First casino in Guyana, the Guyana Princess Hotel and Casino, established.
        2012 Latest major revision of the Gambling Prevention Act, updating regulatory provisions.
        2021 Legalization of certain forms of digital gambling, including online lottery and online sports betting.
        2022–2024 Government signals intention to amend gambling laws to expand the number of casino licenses and modernize regulation, laying groundwork for further legislative changes.

        Requirements

        Software Certification and Technical Standards

        • Guyana currently lacks detailed, codified technical standards or software certification requirements for gambling operators. There are no explicit provisions mandating independent testing or certification of gaming software, random number generators, or online gambling platforms.
        • For land-based casinos, operational requirements are generally governed by the Gambling Prevention Act and its amendments, but these focus on licensing, location, and access rather than technical standards for gaming equipment or systems.
        • There are no published requirements for system integrity, fairness testing, or technical audits of gambling software.

        Data Protection, Privacy Measures, and Server Location

        • Guyana does not have specific gambling-related data protection or privacy regulations for operators. There are no explicit requirements regarding data encryption, secure storage, or the physical location of servers hosting gambling operations.
        • General data protection standards may apply under broader national laws, but there are no sector-specific mandates for gambling operators regarding customer data privacy or cybersecurity protocols.

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

        • There are no detailed, gambling-specific AML or KYC technical requirements codified in the primary gambling legislation. Operators are not subject to explicit technical standards for customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, or suspicious activity reporting within the gambling regulatory framework.
        • General AML obligations may apply under national financial crime laws, but these are not tailored to the gambling sector and do not specify technical implementation procedures for operators.

        Financial Reporting, Auditing Standards, and Record-Keeping

        • There are no explicit technical or operational requirements for financial reporting, external auditing, or record-keeping specified for gambling operators in Guyana.
        • Operators are not mandated to use specific accounting systems, submit regular audited financial statements, or maintain transaction logs according to a prescribed technical standard under current gambling regulations.

        Technical Implementation of Responsible Gambling Tools

        • Guyana's gambling legislation does not require operators to implement technical responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion systems, deposit limits, or real-time player protection features.
        • There are no technical standards or compliance procedures for the deployment of player protection mechanisms or responsible gambling software.
        Summary: Guyana's gambling regulatory framework does not currently impose detailed technical and operational standards on gambling operators. There are no sector-specific requirements for software certification, data protection, AML/KYC technical implementation, financial reporting systems, or responsible gambling tools. Most operational requirements focus on licensing and physical premises, with significant gaps in technical compliance and consumer protection for both land-based and online gambling activities.

        Sources

        Primary Regulatory Authorities

        • Ministry of Legal Affairs, Guyana – Official government ministry overseeing legal and regulatory matters, including gambling regulation.
        • Gaming Authority (Guyana) – Regulatory body established under the Gambling Prevention Act; responsible for licensing and oversight of gaming activities in Guyana.

        Legislation Resources

        Contact Information

        • Ministry of Legal Affairs, Guyana 95 Carmichael Street, Cummingsburg, Georgetown, Guyana Phone: +592 225 2528 Email: info@mola.gov.gy
        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: 22 April 2025