What is the legality of gambling in Colombia?

Is Gambling Legal in Colombia?

Yes, gambling is legal in Colombia. The South American country has a long history of gambling, with the first law regulating gambling activities being enacted in 1921. Since then, the gambling industry has grown steadily, and today, Colombia is one of the few Latin American countries with a regulated gambling market. The Colombian government recognizes the revenue potential of the gambling industry and has implemented various regulations to ensure a safe and fair environment for both operators and players.

What is the Legal Status of Sports Betting in Colombia?

Sports betting is legal and very popular in Colombia. Colombians are known for their passion for sports, particularly football, and this enthusiasm extends to sports betting. In 2016, Colombia became the first Latin American country to regulate online sports betting, allowing licensed operators to offer their services to Colombian residents. The national regulator, Coljuegos, is responsible for issuing licenses and ensuring compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.

What is the Legality of Online Gambling in Colombia?

Online gambling is legal in Colombia, with the government taking significant steps to regulate the industry in recent years. In 2016, Colombia passed a law allowing the licensing and regulation of online gambling operators. Since then, several international operators have obtained licenses to offer their services to Colombian residents, providing a wide range of online casino games and sports betting options. It is important to note that only licensed operators are allowed to offer online gambling services in Colombia, and playing on unlicensed websites is considered illegal.

What is the Legal Gambling Age in Colombia?

The legal gambling age in Colombia is 18 years old. This applies to all forms of gambling, including casinos, sports betting, and online gambling. Operators are required to verify the age of their customers to ensure compliance with this regulation. Failure to do so may result in penalties for the operator, including fines and the revocation of their license.

What are the Most Famous Casinos and Games in Colombia?

Colombia has several land-based casinos, with the majority located in the capital city, Bogota. Some of the most famous casinos in Colombia include:

• Casino Caribe
• Casino Rio
• Rockefeller Casino
• Winner Group Casinos

These casinos offer a variety of games, such as slot machines, poker, blackjack, and roulette. Colombian casinos are known for their lively atmosphere, with live music and entertainment often accompanying the gaming experience.

Do You Need a Gambling License in Colombia?

Yes, you need a gambling license to operate in Colombia. The national regulator, Coljuegos, is responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing the gambling industry. Operators must meet specific requirements to obtain a license, including providing financial guarantees, demonstrating technical capabilities, and adhering to responsible gambling practices. Licensed operators are subject to regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.

Is There a Gambling Tax in Colombia?

Yes, there is a gambling tax in Colombia. Both land-based and online gambling operators are subject to taxation, with the revenue generated used to fund healthcare and social programs. The tax rates vary depending on the type of gambling activity:

• Land-based casinos: 19% of gross gaming revenue
• Online casinos: 15% of gross gaming revenue
• Sports betting: 20% of gross gaming revenue

Additionally, winnings from gambling activities are subject to a 20% withholding tax, which is automatically deducted by the operator before the payout.

What are the Official Links and Resources on Gambling Legality in Colombia?

For more information on gambling legality in Colombia, you can refer to the following official resources:

• Coljuegos – The official website of the Colombian gambling regulator, providing information on licensing, regulations, and responsible gambling initiatives.
• Circular Externa No. 14 de 2017 (in Spanish) – The official document outlining the regulations for online gambling in Colombia.
• Coljuegos News (in Spanish) – The latest news and updates from the Colombian gambling regulator.

Before engaging in any gambling activities in Colombia, it is essential to ensure that the operator is licensed and regulated by Coljuegos. This guarantees a safe and fair gaming experience and helps support the country’s healthcare and social programs through the generated tax revenue.