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Is Gambling Legal in Monaco?

Unregulated
Land-based gambling is strictly regulated for tourists; citizens are banned from casinos. Online gambling is unregulated but not expressly prohibited.
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    Key Information Highlights Legislation Timeline Requirements Sources

    Key Information

    Last Update 2025
    Regulatory Authority Gambling Authority (Service de Contrôle des Jeux)
    License Cost Varies

    Regulation by Activity Type

    Casinos Unregulated
    Online Casinos Unregulated
    Betting Unregulated
    Online Betting Prohibited
    Lotteries Unregulated
    Poker Unregulated

    Highlights

    • Monaco’s gambling industry is governed by Law No. 1103 of 1987, focused exclusively on land-based gaming.
    • Land-based casinos are strictly for foreign nationals; Monaco citizens are prohibited from entering or gambling.
    • The Gambling Authority (Service de Contrôle des Jeux) supervises all gaming operations and enforces compliance.
    • No licensing or regulatory framework exists for online gambling; international sites are accessible to residents.
    • The primary regulatory focus is on casino operations, employee conduct, and ensuring proper gaming conditions.
    • Gambling venues are designed to attract tourists, with the local regulatory approach prioritizing tourism revenue.
    • There are no specific local restrictions on residents participating in offshore online gambling platforms.
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      Legislation

      Primary Legislation

      The core legal framework governing gambling in Monaco is established by Law No. 1.103 of June 12, 1987, which regulates the operation of gambling businesses within the Principality. This law defines the types of gambling activities that are permitted, including a wide range of casino games such as poker, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, craps, Trente et Quarante, Punto Banco, and slot machines. The legislation sets the foundational legal standards for the operation and supervision of gaming establishments. Notably, certain forms of gambling, such as bingo, sports betting, and lotteries, are not specifically addressed or regulated under this law. The law also stipulates the legal requirements for the operation of gambling houses, including the need for official authorization and compliance with specified conditions regarding premises and permitted games.

      Regulatory Authority

      Oversight and enforcement of gambling legislation in Monaco are the responsibility of the Gambling Authority (Service de Contrôle des Jeux), which operates under the Ministry of Finance and Economy. This authority is tasked with supervising the functioning of gaming houses, conducting inspections, monitoring access controls, ensuring compliance with legal provisions, and investigating potential violations. The Gambling Authority's officials have the power to act under the direction of the Public Prosecutor if legal infractions are identified. Their remit covers the enforcement of operational standards and the general integrity of gambling activities within Monaco.
      • Supervision and inspection of gaming houses
      • Monitoring compliance with gambling laws and operational standards
      • Enforcement actions in case of legal violations
      • Reporting and acting under the Public Prosecutor for observed offences

      License Types

      Types of Gambling Licenses in Monaco

      • Casino License: Monaco issues licenses specifically for operating physical casinos. The Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), a company largely controlled by the Monégasque government, is currently the only entity authorized to operate casinos in the principality. No separate licenses are available for other private operators.
      • Online Gambling License: Monaco has not fully legalized online gambling. Any attempts to regulate online gambling are limited and strictly controlled by the Monégasque Gaming Authority (MGA) in coordination with SBM. There are currently no widely available online gambling licenses for private operators.

      Application Process for Casino Licenses

      • Licenses for operating a casino are granted under the conditions specified by law and are highly exclusive, typically only available to entities with government backing, such as SBM.
      • The application must specify the name and qualifications of the permit holder, the premises where games will be operated, and the number of table games and slot machines allowed.
      • Applicants must provide proof of economic and financial capability, a detailed business plan, and demonstrate compliance with the principles of Monaco’s gambling industry.
      • For any changes in the authorized capital of the licensed company, the administrative authority must be notified immediately. If the majority of the capital changes hands, a new license application is required within 15 days, as the previous license becomes invalid.
      • Directors and managers must obtain official permission to perform their duties, and only approved equipment and materials may be used in the casino.

      Duration, Renewal, and Eligibility

      • Licenses are issued for a specific period, as determined by the administrative authority and the conditions set in the permit. The exact duration is not publicly specified but is closely tied to the operational agreements with the government.
      • Renewal conditions require continued compliance with all regulatory requirements, including financial reporting, operational transparency, and adherence to approved gaming equipment and procedures.
      • Eligibility is restricted to entities approved by the government, with SBM currently holding the exclusive right to operate casinos in Monaco. Private individuals and foreign companies are not eligible for casino licenses.

      Licensing Costs and Financial Requirements

      • Detailed licensing costs and fees are not publicly disclosed, as the licensing system is highly centralized and not open to general applicants. The process involves significant financial scrutiny and ongoing reporting obligations.
      • Applicants must demonstrate substantial financial resources and provide evidence of their ability to support large-scale casino operations.
      • Ongoing financial requirements include submitting regular income statements and maintaining transparent accounting practices, as overseen by the administrative authority.

      Key Requirements for Obtaining and Maintaining a License

      • Strict adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) protocols.
      • Implementation of robust security measures for customer data and transactions.
      • Full compliance with all operational, equipment, and staffing regulations as set by the government and the administrative authority.
      • Immediate notification to authorities of any significant changes in company ownership or capital structure.
      • Submission of regular financial reports and cooperation with regulatory audits.

      Summary Table: Casino Licensing in Monaco

      License Type Eligible Entities Application Requirements Costs & Fees Duration & Renewal Key Maintenance Requirements
      Casino License Government-backed entities (SBM) Business plan, financial proof, premises details, equipment approval Not publicly disclosed Set by authority; renewal requires compliance Financial reporting, AML/KYC, equipment approval, ownership reporting
      Online Gambling License Limited, under strict government control Financial capability, business plan, security measures Not publicly disclosed Case-by-case basis Compliance with strict regulatory standards

      Gambling Tax

      Tax Rates for Gambling Operators in Monaco

      Monaco's taxation system for gambling operators is highly specialized and primarily applies to land-based casino operations, as online gambling is not regulated. The key features of the tax regime are as follows:
      • Gambling operators, notably casinos, are subject to a progressive tax on their Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR).
      • The tax rates are progressive, increasing as GGR rises, and can reach up to approximately 80% for the highest revenue brackets.
      GGR Bracket Applicable Tax Rate
      First €100,000 35%
      Next €100,000 to €200,000 45%
      Next €200,000 to €350,000 55%
      Next €350,000 to €500,000 75%
      Above €500,000 80%
      These rates apply to the gross gaming revenue, which is the total amount wagered by players minus the winnings paid out.

      Basis for Taxation

      • The primary basis for taxation is Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR).
      • There are no separate turnover or betting duty taxes for gambling operators; all taxation is based on GGR.

      Tax Reporting and Payment Requirements

      • Casinos are required to maintain detailed records of all gaming activities and revenues.
      • Tax returns must be filed regularly, typically on a monthly basis, with the relevant authorities.
      • Tax payments are due in accordance with the filing period, and must be remitted directly to the Monaco Treasury.
      • The Gambling Authority (Service de Contrôle des Jeux) oversees compliance and can conduct inspections to verify the accuracy of reported figures and payments.

      Tax Incentives, Exemptions, or Special Provisions

      • There are no notable tax incentives or exemptions for gambling operators in Monaco.
      • All licensed casino operators are subject to the same progressive tax rates, with no reduced rates or special deductions.
      • No provisions exist for online gambling taxation, as online gambling is not regulated in Monaco.

      Prohibited Individuals

      Age Restrictions and Identification Requirements

      • The minimum age for entry into gambling establishments in Monaco is 18 years.
      • All players must present valid identification documents to gain access to gambling venues. This ensures strict age verification and compliance with entry requirements.

      Prohibited Activities and Game Restrictions

      • Monaco citizens are strictly prohibited from entering or gambling in the country’s casinos. This restriction also applies to individuals with Monégasque nationality, regardless of their place of residence.
      • Military personnel, clergy, and members of religious communities are also barred from accessing gambling establishments.
      • While most traditional casino games such as poker, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, craps, Trente et Quarante, Punto Banco, and slot machines are permitted, there is no regulation or legal provision for bingo, sports betting, or lotteries. These activities are effectively not permitted or offered in Monaco’s regulated gambling sector.

      Advertising and Marketing Limitations

      • Advertising and marketing of gambling activities are subject to strict oversight to prevent targeting of prohibited groups, especially Monégasque citizens and minors.
      • Promotional materials and campaigns must not encourage excessive or irresponsible gambling behavior.
      • Marketing must comply with responsible gambling principles and avoid misleading claims about winning probabilities or potential outcomes.

      Responsible Gambling Requirements and Player Protection Measures

      • Casinos are required to implement robust access controls, including identity verification at entry, to enforce age and nationality restrictions.
      • Operators must ensure that games are conducted under proper conditions, with trained staff monitoring player behavior and intervening in cases of suspected problem gambling.
      • Player protection measures include the availability of information on responsible gambling and resources for those seeking help with gambling-related issues.
      • The Gambling Authority regularly inspects operations, monitors compliance, and has the power to intervene in cases of violations or unsafe practices.

      Geographic and Location Restrictions

      • Gambling activities are restricted to licensed physical venues within Monaco. Only designated premises, such as the Monte Carlo Casino, are authorized to offer gambling.
      • There is no provision for regulated online gambling, and no online casino or betting platforms are licensed or permitted within Monaco’s jurisdiction.
      • Entry to gambling venues is strictly controlled at the door, with checks to enforce both age and nationality restrictions.
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        Timeline

        Year/Date Event
        1856 Prince Charles III of Monaco grants a concession to establish a gambling house to help address the principality’s financial crisis.
        1863 The Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) is founded and given exclusive rights to operate casinos and gambling establishments in Monaco.
        1865 The iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo officially opens its doors to the public, marking the start of regulated casino gambling in Monaco.
        1987 Law No. 1103 is enacted, providing the modern legal framework for gambling in Monaco and confirming the regulation of all land-based gambling activities.
        1990s The Gambling Authority (Service de Contrôle des Jeux) is established to supervise, inspect, and regulate gaming operations in Monaco.
        Present The legal framework remains largely unchanged since 1987, with strict regulation of land-based gambling and ongoing prohibition of Monegasque citizens from entering or working in casinos. No specific legislation for online gambling has been introduced.

        Requirements

        Technical and Operational Requirements for Gambling Operators in Monaco

        Software Certification and Technical Standards

        While specific software certification standards for Monaco are not detailed in the available information, it is crucial that all gaming equipment and software used in casinos must be approved and certified by the relevant authorities. This typically involves ensuring that the software complies with international standards for fairness and randomness.

        Data Protection, Privacy Measures, and Server Location Requirements

        • Data Protection: Operators must adhere to Monaco's data protection laws, ensuring the privacy and security of customer data. This includes implementing robust data encryption and secure storage practices.
        • Privacy Measures: Privacy policies must be transparent and accessible to customers, detailing how their personal data is collected, stored, and used.
        • Server Location: While specific server location requirements are not explicitly stated, operators typically need to ensure that their servers are located in secure environments that comply with international data protection standards.

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

        • AML Procedures: Operators must implement robust AML measures, including monitoring transactions for suspicious activity and reporting such activities to the relevant authorities.
        • KYC Procedures: Effective KYC processes are essential to verify the identity of customers, ensuring compliance with AML regulations and preventing unauthorized access to gambling services.

        Financial Reporting, Auditing Standards, and Record-Keeping Requirements

        • Financial Reporting: Operators are required to maintain accurate and detailed financial records, including all transactions and revenue generated. These records must be available for audit at any time.
        • Auditing Standards: Regular audits are necessary to ensure compliance with financial regulations and to verify the integrity of financial reporting.
        • Record-Keeping Requirements: All financial transactions, customer interactions, and operational data must be securely stored for a specified period, as required by law.

        Technical Implementation Requirements for Responsible Gambling Tools

        • Responsible Gambling Tools: Operators must implement tools that promote responsible gambling, such as limits on betting amounts, time limits for play, and self-exclusion options. These tools should be easily accessible and clearly communicated to customers.
        • Player Protection: Software should include features that help identify and prevent problem gambling behaviors, such as tracking betting patterns and providing resources for support.

        Operational Requirements

        • Employee Conduct: Employees must adhere to strict codes of conduct, ensuring that games are operated fairly and honestly.
        • Opening Hours and Closure: Casinos must operate within specified hours and adhere to any regulations regarding their operation.
        • Access Controls: Casinos must enforce strict access controls, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter gaming areas. This includes age verification and exclusion of prohibited groups, such as local citizens and certain professionals.

        Sources

        Primary Regulatory Authorities

        Legislation Resources

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          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