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VE

Is Gambling Legal in Venezuela?

Partially Regulated
Land-based gambling is regulated and licensed; online gambling lacks clear regulation but is widely accessible and tolerated.
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    Key Information Highlights Legislation Timeline Requirements Sources

    Key Information

    Last Update 2025
    Regulatory Authority National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC)
    License Cost Varies

    Regulation by Activity Type

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

    Highlights

    • Land-based gambling is regulated by the National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls, and Slot Machines (CNC), established under the 1997 law.
    • Casinos must be located in five-star hotels within designated tourist zones and require a license valid for 10 years, renewable upon review.
    • All licensed gambling establishments must implement a real-time monitoring system for regulatory oversight and control.
    • Online gambling remains largely unregulated, allowing Venezuelans to access foreign casino sites without legal repercussions.
    • A 20% tax is levied on gross gaming revenue for licensed land-based casinos; lottery and horse racing prizes are taxed at 16%.
    • Operators must be joint-stock companies with at least 300,000 tax units in investment and 200,000 in operating capital; foreign ownership is capped at 80%.
    • The state lottery operates separately, offering both land-based and online games, with explicit permission for mobile lottery play since 2012.
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      Legislation

      Primary Legislation

      The core legal framework governing gambling in Venezuela is established by the Special Law for the Control of Casinos, Bingo Halls, and Slot Machines, enacted in 1997. This law provides the primary regulatory structure for all land-based gambling activities, including casinos, bingo halls, and slot machines. It sets out the legal definitions, operational requirements, and compliance obligations for gambling establishments. The law also mandates that casinos must be located in designated tourist areas and typically within five-star hotels. Additional regulations address technical standards, player protection, and the approval of gambling equipment. For lotteries, a separate legal structure exists, with the National Lottery regulated independently from other gambling activities. The legal framework for horse racing is distinct as well, managed under specific regulations overseen by a dedicated authority. Online gambling in Venezuela remains in a legal grey area. While there is no explicit law that legalizes or prohibits online gambling, the absence of clear legislative provisions means that online gambling is neither formally regulated nor banned. As a result, Venezuelan residents often access offshore online gambling platforms without direct legal repercussions.

      Regulatory Authority

      The principal regulatory body for gambling in Venezuela is the National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls, and Slot Machines (Comisión Nacional de Casinos, Salas de Bingo y Máquinas Traganíqueles, or CNC). The CNC operates as a decentralized entity within the Ministry of Finance and is responsible for the oversight and enforcement of gambling laws related to land-based casinos, bingo halls, and slot machines.
      • Supervises and monitors compliance with gambling legislation and technical standards
      • Issues, renews, and revokes licenses for gambling establishments
      • Imposes administrative sanctions and fines for violations of gambling laws
      • Approves and certifies gambling equipment and platforms
      • Maintains official registers of licensed operators and personnel
      • Proposes and endorses new regulations or amendments to existing laws
      Other regulatory bodies include the National Commission of Lotteries, which oversees lottery operations, and the National Superintendence of Equestrian Activities, responsible for horse racing regulation. Each authority operates under its own mandate within the broader framework of Venezuelan gambling law.

      License Types

      Types of Gambling Licenses Available in Venezuela

      • Casino License: Required for operating land-based casinos. Licenses are typically issued only for casinos located within five-star hotels in designated tourist areas, with a minimum of 200 rooms.
      • Bingo Hall License: Required for bingo operations, which may be located in three- to five-star hotels or other venues approved by the regulator.
      • Slot Machine License: For establishments offering slot machines, typically associated with casinos and bingo halls.
      • Online Gambling License: Issued and regulated by the National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC). Only a limited number of licenses have been granted for online gambling, and operators must have a physical presence in Venezuela. The scope of online licenses is narrow, and expansion is limited.
      • Lottery License: Managed separately by the National Lottery Commission for both online and land-based lottery operations.

      Application Process for Gambling Licenses

      • Regulatory Authority: The National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC) is responsible for issuing, renewing, and monitoring licenses for land-based and online gambling operations.
      • Eligibility:
        • Applicants must be registered as a joint-stock company in Venezuela.
        • The company’s primary activity must be the operation of a casino, bingo hall, or gambling platform.
        • Foreign capital participation is permitted but must not exceed 80%.
      • Documentation:
        • Proof of company registration and corporate structure.
        • Evidence of required capital and investment (see below).
        • Business plan, including details of operations, internal controls, and responsible gaming measures.
        • Location details, including proof that the facility meets hotel and tourism requirements (for land-based licenses).
        • Technical specifications for gaming equipment and platforms.
      • Approval: The CNC reviews applications, conducts background checks, and inspects proposed facilities. Approval is subject to majority decision by the CNC Board of Directors.

      License Duration and Renewal

      • Licenses for casinos, bingo halls, and slot machine operations are valid for 10 years.
      • Renewal is possible upon review by the CNC, provided all regulatory requirements and compliance obligations have been met.
      • Licenses are non-transferable and cannot be sold or assigned to third parties.

      Costs, Fees, and Financial Requirements

      • Initial Capital Requirements:
        • Casino operators must demonstrate an investment of at least 300,000 tax units and operating capital of 200,000 tax units. The value of a tax unit is set annually by the Venezuelan Tax Code.
      • Application and Licensing Fees:
        • Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee, the amount of which is determined by the CNC and may vary by license type and establishment size.
        • Annual licensing fees are also required, based on the type of operation and projected gaming volume.
      • Other Costs:
        • Operators must cover the costs of regulatory inspections, equipment certification, and compliance audits as required by the CNC.

      Key Requirements for Obtaining and Maintaining a License

      • Location and Facility Standards:
        • Casinos must be located in five-star hotels with at least 200 rooms, situated in designated tourist areas.
        • Bingo halls may be located in three- to five-star hotels or other approved venues.
      • Internal Regulations:
        • Operators must have internal rules for all games, including preset denominations, detailed game rules, and statistical information on game outcomes.
        • Slot machines must have a minimum theoretical payout of 80%.
        • Rules must be published in Spanish and at least two other languages, including English, and displayed prominently.
      • Compliance and Reporting:
        • Operators must comply with all anti-money laundering and responsible gaming regulations.
        • Regular reporting to the CNC is required, including financial statements, player statistics, and operational data.
        • Operators must submit to periodic inspections and audits by the CNC and the National Inspection agency.
      • Personnel and Ownership:
        • All key personnel must be vetted and registered with the CNC.
        • Ownership changes or significant structural modifications require prior approval from the CNC.

      Summary Table: Key Licensing Features

      License Type Duration Capital Requirements Facility Requirements Renewal
      Casino 10 years 300,000 tax units (investment), 200,000 tax units (operating capital) 5-star hotel, 200+ rooms, tourist area Yes, upon review
      Bingo Hall 10 years Similar to casino, as set by CNC 3-5 star hotel or approved venue Yes, upon review
      Online Gambling Varies, limited issuance Physical presence, capital as set by CNC Must operate from Venezuela Yes, upon review
      Lottery Set by National Lottery Commission As determined by Commission Not applicable Yes, upon review

      Gambling Tax

      Tax Rates for Gambling Operators in Venezuela

      Type of Gambling Operation Tax Rate Tax Base
      Land-based Casinos 20% Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR)
      Lottery Prizes 16% Prize Amount
      Horse Racing Prizes 16% Prize Amount
      Player Winnings (General) 34% Winnings
      • Casinos are taxed at 20% of their gross gaming revenue, which is calculated as total bets minus total winnings paid to players.
      • Lottery and horse racing prizes are subject to a 16% tax on the value of the prize.
      • Player winnings from gambling activities may be taxed at a rate of 34%.

      Tax Reporting and Payment Procedures

      • Gambling operators classified as "special taxpayers" must file their gaming activities tax returns and make payments according to an official calendar published annually by the National Integrated Service of Customs and Tax Administration (SENIAT).
      • The due dates for filing and paying taxes are determined based on the last digit of the operator’s Tax Information Registry (RIF) number.
      • Operators must also file value-added tax (VAT) and income tax returns, as well as make advance payments for both, according to the same calendar.
      • Tax returns are typically filed electronically through the SENIAT online portal.
      • Operators are required to maintain detailed records of all gaming transactions, including bets, payouts, and prize distributions, to support their tax filings.

      Tax Incentives, Exemptions, and Special Provisions

      • No specific tax incentives or exemptions for gambling operators are publicly documented in the current regulatory framework.
      • There are no widely reported special provisions for reduced rates or tax holidays for new or foreign operators.
      • Operators must comply with all standard tax obligations applicable to their business activities, including VAT and income tax, in addition to the gaming-specific taxes.

      Prohibited Individuals

      Age Restrictions and Identification Requirements

      • The minimum legal age for participating in any form of gambling in Venezuela is 18 years. All licensed gambling operators are required to verify the age of their customers before allowing access to gambling services.
      • Identification checks are mandatory for entry into land-based casinos, bingo halls, and other regulated gambling venues. Players must present valid government-issued identification to confirm age and identity.
      • Online gambling operators licensed in Venezuela must also implement robust identity verification procedures, including checks against official databases, to prevent underage gambling and ensure compliance with anti-money laundering regulations.

      Prohibited Activities and Game Restrictions

      • Only specific types of gambling are permitted under Venezuelan regulation. These include casino games, bingo, lotteries, and horse racing. All other forms of gambling, including unlicensed betting and unauthorized games of chance, are prohibited.
      • Casinos are restricted to operating within five-star hotels located in designated tourist areas. Bingo halls may be situated in hotels with three to five stars or other locations approved by the regulator.
      • There are strict requirements for the types of games and equipment allowed in regulated venues. For example, slot machines must have a minimum theoretical payout of 80% of all bets placed.
      • Online gambling is permitted only through licensed operators. The types of games offered online are subject to approval by the regulator, and certain forms of sports betting may be restricted or prohibited.
      • Unlicensed gambling, including participation in or operation of unauthorized online or land-based gambling activities, is strictly forbidden and subject to penalties.

      Advertising and Marketing Limitations

      • Advertising and marketing of gambling services are strictly controlled. Only licensed operators may promote their services within Venezuela.
      • All gambling advertisements must include clear information about the minimum legal age for participation and responsible gambling messaging.
      • Operators are not permitted to make misleading claims about the chances of winning or the benefits of gambling. All promotional materials must be accurate and not encourage excessive or irresponsible gambling behavior.

      Responsible Gambling and Player Protection Measures

      • Licensed operators are required to implement responsible gambling programs, including self-exclusion options that allow players to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling activities for a specified period.
      • Operators must provide tools for players to set limits on deposits, losses, and playing time to help manage gambling behavior and prevent excessive play.
      • Information about the risks of gambling and resources for problem gambling support must be made easily accessible to all players, both online and in physical venues.
      • Operators are obligated to monitor player behavior for signs of problem gambling and intervene when necessary, including offering referrals to counseling and support services.
      • Failure to comply with responsible gambling requirements can result in the suspension or revocation of an operator’s license and the imposition of fines.

      Geographic and Location Restrictions

      • Land-based casinos are only permitted within five-star hotels located in officially designated tourist zones. Each casino must have at least 200 hotel rooms to qualify for a license.
      • Bingo halls may be located in hotels with three to five stars or in other venues approved by the regulator, but must also be situated within designated areas.
      • Online gambling operators must have a physical presence in Venezuela to be eligible for a license and to offer services legally to Venezuelan residents.
      • The operation of gambling establishments outside of approved zones or without proper authorization is strictly prohibited.
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        Timeline

        Year/Date Event
        Pre-1997 Casinos and other gambling venues operate with special local permissions, but without a unified national legal framework.
        1997 Law No. 36.254 is enacted, formally legalizing and regulating gambling in Venezuela. The National Commission for Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC) is established as the main regulatory authority.
        2002 Draft reforms to gambling laws are submitted and endorsed, aiming to modernize regulation of casinos, slots, bingo, lotteries, and sports betting.
        2011 The Economic Activity Control Regime Law is approved, introducing restrictions on land-based casinos and betting houses. Online gambling remains unregulated by this law.
        2012 The Venezuelan Gambling Commission begins overseeing online gambling. The national lottery receives explicit permission to offer mobile-based games.
        2017 The government initiates further legislative reforms, including new bills for casino, slot, bingo, lottery, and sports betting regulation. These reforms are under discussion and revision.
        2024 Administrative Ruling No. SNAT/2024/000118 is published, reaffirming tax and reporting obligations for gaming activities, but without significant changes to the regulatory framework.

        Requirements

        Software Certification and Technical Standards

        • All gaming equipment, including software and hardware platforms, must be certified and authorized by the National Commission for Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC). Certification ensures compliance with fairness, randomness, and integrity standards for games and systems.
        • Slot machines must have a programmed theoretical payout percentage of at least 80% of all bets placed. This requirement is subject to technical verification and ongoing monitoring by the regulator.
        • Operators are required to maintain detailed technical documentation for each game and gaming device, including mathematical expectations and payout statistics. These must be accessible for regulatory inspection at any time.
        • Gaming rules and technical standards must be published in Spanish, English, and at least one additional language, and displayed prominently on platforms and within establishments.
        • All technical systems must undergo regular audits and inspections by the National Inspection agency, which maintains a register of approved platforms and personnel.

        Data Protection, Privacy Measures, and Server Location

        • Operators must implement robust data protection protocols to safeguard personal and financial information of players. This includes encryption of sensitive data, secure storage, and restricted access based on role and necessity.
        • Operators are required to comply with national data privacy laws, ensuring that customer data is not transferred or processed outside Venezuela without explicit regulatory approval.
        • Gaming servers and data centers must be physically located within Venezuela unless otherwise authorized by the CNC. This is to facilitate regulatory oversight and ensure data sovereignty.
        • Operators must maintain comprehensive logs of all player activity, transactions, and system events, with secure backup and disaster recovery procedures in place.

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

        • Operators are subject to strict AML regulations and must implement procedures for the detection and reporting of suspicious transactions to the relevant authorities.
        • Comprehensive KYC protocols are mandatory, requiring verification of player identity, age, and source of funds before allowing participation in gambling activities.
        • Operators must monitor player transactions for unusual patterns or volumes and report any activity that may indicate money laundering or terrorist financing.
        • All AML and KYC procedures must be documented and regularly reviewed for compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.

        Financial Reporting, Auditing Standards, and Record-Keeping

        • Operators must maintain accurate and detailed financial records of all gaming transactions, player accounts, and operational revenues and expenses.
        • Regular financial reporting to the CNC is required, including submission of audited financial statements prepared in accordance with national accounting standards.
        • Operators are obligated to retain all records, including player activity logs and financial documentation, for a minimum period as specified by the regulator (typically five years).
        • Independent audits of technical and financial systems must be conducted periodically, with results submitted to the CNC for review and compliance verification.

        Technical Implementation Requirements for Responsible Gambling Tools

        • Operators must provide responsible gambling tools within their platforms, including self-exclusion options, deposit and loss limits, and access to responsible gaming resources.
        • Technical systems must allow players to set personal limits and self-exclude, with immediate and irreversible effect upon activation.
        • Operators are required to display responsible gambling information prominently and ensure that all responsible gaming features are functional, accessible, and regularly tested for effectiveness.
        • Systems must be designed to detect and flag problematic gambling behavior, triggering interventions or notifications as required by regulatory guidelines.

        Sources

        Legislation Resources

        Contact Information

        • National Commission for Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC): Phone: +58 (212) 408-6345 Address: Av. Urdaneta, Edificio Torre Oeste, Piso 2, La Candelaria, Caracas, Venezuela
        • National Superintendence of Equestrian Activities (SUNAHIP): Phone: +58 (212) 578-0111 Address: Av. Francisco de Miranda, Edificio Seguros Venezuela, Piso 9, Caracas, Venezuela
        • National Integrated Service of Customs and Tax Administration (SENIAT): Phone: 0-8000-736428 Address: Av. Urdaneta, Edificio SENIAT, Caracas, Venezuela
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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: 18 April 2025