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
WS

Is Gambling Legal in Samoa?

Partially Regulated
Land-based gambling is regulated, mainly for tourism; local participation is restricted. Online gambling 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 Gambling Control Authority Samoa
    License Cost Varies

    Regulation by Activity Type

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

    Highlights

    • The Casino and Gambling Control Act 2010 is Samoa's primary legislation governing gambling activities.
    • The Gambling Control Authority (GCA) is the national regulator, overseeing licensing and compliance.
    • Casino gambling is restricted to foreign passport holders staying at licensed hotels or resorts.
    • Online gambling remains largely unregulated, with no domestic licenses currently issued for online operators.
    • The GCA supports responsible gambling and directs a portion of gambling revenues to community and charitable causes.
    • All gambling activities, including those via telecommunications providers, require licensing from the GCA.
    • Recent legislative efforts aim to further control, minimize harm, and ensure integrity in all forms of gambling.
    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 Samoa is established by several key legislative acts. The principal law is the Casino and Gambling Control Act 2010, which provides the foundation for the regulation of gambling activities in the country. This Act was designed to oversee the development of the gambling sector, particularly in relation to tourism, and to ensure the integrity and probity of gambling operations.
      • The Casino and Gambling Control Act 2010 sets out the legal parameters for gambling activities, including the establishment and operation of casinos and other forms of gambling.
      • The Casino and Gambling Control Amendment Act 2015 further developed the regulatory framework, with particular attention to the regulation of interactive (online) gambling and the promotion of responsible gambling practices.
      • Additional legislative initiatives, such as the Gaming Control Bill 2017, have been introduced to further clarify and strengthen the regulation and oversight of all gaming and gambling activities, including those offered via telecommunications providers.
      These laws collectively define the types of gambling permitted, the requirements for operation, and the measures to minimize harm and criminal activity associated with gambling. The legislation also emphasizes the importance of applying gambling proceeds to community purposes and ensuring responsible and fair gaming.

      Regulatory Authority

      The principal body responsible for overseeing the implementation and enforcement of gambling legislation in Samoa is the Gambling Control Authority (GCA). This authority was established under the Casino and Gambling Control Act 2010 and is tasked with the comprehensive regulation of all gambling activities in the country.
      • Regulates and supervises all forms of gambling and gaming activities in Samoa.
      • Enforces compliance with relevant gambling legislation and regulations.
      • Promotes responsible gambling and works to minimize the adverse social impacts of gambling.
      • Oversees the licensing and operation of gambling establishments (without detailing licensing procedures).
      • Works to ensure that gambling activities are conducted with integrity and in accordance with the law.

      License Types

      Types of Gambling Licenses in Samoa

      • Casino License: Issued for the operation of land-based casinos, typically attached to hotel resorts. The Casino and Gambling Control Act 2010 established this as the primary license type for casino gaming activities.
      • Gaming and Gambling License: Covers other forms of gambling activities such as bingo, lotteries, and gaming machines. These licenses are required for both commercial and charitable gambling operations.
      • Telecommunications-Based Gaming License: Specific licenses are required for gaming and gambling activities conducted through telecommunications providers, including online and mobile games, as regulated by recent legislative updates.

      Application Process

      • Applications must be submitted to the Gambling Control Authority (GCA) of Samoa, the official regulatory body responsible for licensing and compliance.
      • Applicants are required to complete official forms and provide detailed business plans, proof of financial capacity, and background checks for key personnel.
      • The application process includes a thorough assessment of the applicant's suitability, integrity, and ability to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements.
      • For casino licenses, there is typically a public consultation phase and a requirement to demonstrate the economic and social benefits of the proposed operation.
      • Licenses are granted at the discretion of the GCA, following review and approval by the Chief Executive Officer and, in some cases, the Minister responsible for gambling regulation.

      Duration and Renewal Conditions

      • Licenses are generally issued for a fixed term, commonly ranging from one to five years, depending on the type of license and the terms set by the GCA.
      • Renewal of licenses requires submission of updated documentation, continued compliance with regulatory standards, and payment of renewal fees.
      • The GCA may review the operator's performance, compliance history, and financial standing as part of the renewal process.

      Eligibility Criteria

      • Applicants must be legal entities registered in Samoa or have a recognized legal presence in the country.
      • Key personnel and major shareholders must pass fit-and-proper person tests, including criminal background and financial integrity checks.
      • Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support the proposed gambling operations.
      • For casino licenses, preference may be given to operators who can contribute to tourism development and community benefits.

      Licensing Costs and Financial Requirements

      • Application fees and annual license fees are set by the GCA and may vary depending on the type and scale of the gambling activity.
      • For casino licenses, fees are generally higher and may include both a substantial initial application fee and ongoing annual charges.
      • Applicants may be required to provide financial guarantees or bonds to ensure compliance with licensing conditions and the payment of any regulatory penalties.
      • Detailed information on current fee amounts is available from the GCA upon request or via their official website, as fees are subject to periodic review and adjustment.

      Key Requirements for Obtaining and Maintaining a License

      • Strict adherence to operational and compliance standards set by the GCA, including responsible gambling measures and anti-money laundering protocols.
      • Regular submission of financial and operational reports to the GCA.
      • Implementation of effective internal controls and security measures to ensure the integrity of gambling operations.
      • Ongoing cooperation with regulatory inspections and audits.
      • Immediate notification to the GCA of any significant changes in ownership, management, or business structure.

      Gambling Tax

      Tax Rates for Gambling Operators in Samoa

      Samoa’s taxation system for gambling operators is closely linked to its regulatory framework, with the Gambling Control Authority overseeing compliance and financial contributions from licensed operators. The primary forms of gambling subject to taxation include land-based casinos, lotteries, and certain gaming activities associated with tourism resorts.
      Type of Gambling Operation Tax Rate Basis for Taxation
      Land-based Casinos Information on the exact percentage tax rate is not publicly disclosed, but contributions are based on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) or turnover as stipulated in individual licensing agreements. Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) or turnover, as defined in operator agreements
      Lotteries & Bingo Specific tax rates are not published; operators are required to contribute a portion of proceeds to government and community funds. Portion of proceeds (turnover or GGR, as specified by authority)
      Other Gaming Activities (e.g., promotional games by telecom providers) Subject to licensing fees and potential levies determined by the Gambling Control Authority Turnover or event-based, as determined by the Authority

      Basis for Taxation

      • Most gambling taxes are calculated on the basis of Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), which is the difference between total wagers and total payouts to players.
      • In some cases, taxation may be based on turnover (total amount wagered), especially for lotteries and bingo.
      • The specific basis and rate are typically defined in the operator’s license agreement with the Gambling Control Authority.

      Tax Reporting and Payment Requirements

      • Licensed gambling operators must submit regular financial reports to the Gambling Control Authority, detailing GGR, turnover, and other relevant financial data.
      • Tax payments are generally required on a monthly or quarterly basis, as stipulated in the operator’s licensing agreement.
      • Operators must maintain accurate records and be prepared for periodic audits by the Authority to verify compliance and correct tax remittance.
      • Failure to comply with tax reporting or payment obligations can result in penalties, suspension, or revocation of the gambling license.

      Tax Incentives, Exemptions, and Special Provisions

      • There are no broadly publicized tax incentives or exemptions for gambling operators in Samoa; all operators are expected to contribute according to their license terms.
      • Some special provisions may apply to operators whose proceeds are earmarked for community or charitable purposes, such as certain lotteries or bingo events.
      • The Gambling Control Authority may, at its discretion, adjust levies or contribution requirements for operators supporting tourism or community development initiatives.
       

      Prohibited Individuals

      Age Restrictions and Identification Requirements

      • Participation in gambling activities in Samoa is restricted to individuals who meet the minimum legal age, which is typically 21 years old for casino gaming.
      • Casinos are primarily accessible to foreign passport holders staying at designated casino resorts or hotels; local citizens are generally prohibited from participating in casino gambling unless they possess a foreign passport.
      • Identification checks are mandatory to verify age and eligibility, especially for entry into casinos and participation in regulated gambling activities.

      Prohibited Activities and Game Restrictions

      • Unlicensed gambling operations are strictly prohibited, including unauthorized online gambling and gaming activities not approved by the Gambling Control Authority.
      • Local citizens are generally not permitted to participate in casino gambling unless they hold a foreign passport and are guests at approved venues.
      • Interactive and online gambling remain largely unregulated, with no licensed online gaming websites operating legally within Samoa.
      • Specific restrictions apply to gambling via telecommunications service providers, requiring such activities to be licensed and regulated by the Authority.

      Advertising and Marketing Limitations

      • Advertising and promotion of gambling activities are subject to strict controls to prevent targeting minors and vulnerable groups.
      • Marketing of gambling services must not mislead the public or encourage excessive or irresponsible gambling behavior.
      • Advertisements for unlicensed or unauthorized gambling activities are prohibited.

      Responsible Gambling Requirements and Player Protection Measures

      • Operators are required to implement responsible gambling measures to minimize harm, including providing information about the risks of gambling and resources for problem gambling support.
      • Self-exclusion programs and mechanisms for players to set limits on their gambling activities are encouraged or required where applicable.
      • Operators must ensure fairness in games and protect players from fraudulent or dishonest practices.
      • There are ongoing efforts by the Gambling Control Authority to promote community awareness and education about responsible gambling.

      Geographic and Location Restrictions

      • Casino gambling is limited to designated casino resorts and hotels, with access primarily for foreign passport holders who are guests at these venues.
      • Land-based gambling venues must be licensed and operate within approved locations as determined by the Gambling Control Authority.
      • There are restrictions on the establishment of gambling venues outside of approved tourist areas and resorts.
      Gambling Regulatory Consultation

      Get expert advice on gambling regulations and operational requirements




        Timeline

        Year/Date Event
        2010 Casino and Gambling Control Act 2010 enacted, establishing the Gambling Control Authority to regulate gambling and issue licenses, primarily to support tourism development.
        2015 Casino and Gambling Control Amendment Act 2015 passed, introducing provisions for the regulation of interactive (online) gambling and further refining the regulatory framework.
        2016 Proposed Gaming Control Bill 2016 drafted, emphasizing the promotion of responsible gambling; however, it was not enacted.
        2017 Gaming Control Bill 2017 tabled in Parliament, aiming to update and consolidate regulations, address new gambling forms (including telecommunications-based games), and strengthen harm minimization measures.
        2018 Main gambling legislation last revised, but no significant regulatory changes to online gambling were introduced; online gambling remains unregulated.
        2021 Gambling Control Authority announced it would cease paying dividends to the government due to lack of government grants, highlighting its financial contributions to charitable and community causes.

        Requirements

        Software Certification and Technical Standards

        • All gambling software and gaming systems used by operators must comply with technical standards set by the Gambling Control Authority or any rules made under the Gaming Control Act.
        • Gaming systems must undergo independent testing and certification to ensure fairness, randomness, and integrity of games.
        • Operators are required to implement robust technical controls to prevent unauthorized access, manipulation, or tampering with gaming systems.
        • Any updates or changes to gaming software must be approved by the Authority prior to deployment.

        Data Protection, Privacy Measures, and Server Location Requirements

        • Operators must implement adequate data protection measures to safeguard players’ personal and financial information from unauthorized access or breaches.
        • All customer data must be stored securely, with encryption protocols and restricted access controls in place.
        • Operators are required to comply with any data privacy regulations prescribed by the Gambling Control Authority, including requirements for secure data retention and deletion policies.
        • There may be requirements for gaming servers to be located within Samoa or in jurisdictions approved by the Authority to ensure regulatory oversight and data security.

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

        • Operators must establish and maintain comprehensive AML programs, including procedures for detecting and reporting suspicious transactions.
        • KYC procedures are mandatory and require verification of player identity, age, and source of funds before allowing participation in gambling activities.
        • Ongoing monitoring of player transactions and activities is required to identify and prevent money laundering or terrorist financing risks.
        • Operators must maintain records of all KYC checks and AML activities for a period specified by the Authority.

        Financial Reporting, Auditing Standards, and Record-Keeping Requirements

        • Operators are required to maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records reflecting all gambling transactions, player accounts, and payouts.
        • Regular financial reporting to the Gambling Control Authority is mandatory, including submission of audited financial statements by an independent auditor approved by the Authority.
        • Operators must implement internal controls to ensure transparency and accountability in all financial dealings.
        • All records, including transaction logs and audit trails, must be retained for a minimum period as specified by the Authority and made available for inspection upon request.

        Technical Implementation Requirements for Responsible Gambling Tools

        • Operators must integrate responsible gambling tools into their platforms, such as self-exclusion options, deposit and loss limits, and reality checks to promote player protection.
        • Systems must provide clear and accessible information to players regarding responsible gambling measures and available support resources.
        • Technical controls must be in place to enforce responsible gambling limits and prevent circumvention of these tools.
        • Operators are required to monitor player behavior for signs of problem gambling and implement intervention protocols as directed by the Authority.

        Sources

        Primary Regulatory Authorities

        Legislation Resources

        Contact Information

        • Gambling Control Authority Samoa Address: Level 2, SNPF Plaza, Beach Road, Apia, Samoa Phone: +685 26512
        Navigate Gambling Regulations Successfully

        Professional guidance on regulatory compliance for gambling operations




          Rwanda

          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: 21 April 2025