Previous law - Gaming Act 1968

For the player

The UK vs Other Jurisdictions. A game of chance to win a prize in the UK is subject to regulation (and with it compliance, fees and taxes) under the 2005 Gambling Act, where this definition includes skilled games with a small element of chance unless so insignificant as to not matter.

UK gambling law is based on the Gaming Act 1968 and is somewhat outdated. With regards to online gambling, it is perfectly legal for a punter to gamble online from the comfort of their homes.

'There is nothing in current legislation which makes it illegal, or seeks to prevent, British residents gambling on the Internet in their own homes.'
The Gaming Board for Great Britain

For the casino

1. If you have a legal question about a gaming issue, you should speak to a gaming attorney to discuss this complicated area of the law. Whether you are involved in playing or operating casino gaming, racetrack betting, sweepstakes, internet gaming, daily fantasy sports, or competitive E-Sports, gaming law has many unique aspects that need to be analyzed by an attorney with extensive experience.
2. Our Betting & Gaming lawyers are recognised experts within the gambling sector. We combine a full-service offering with deep sector knowledge that has been built over many years. We provide market-leading advice on the full range of regulatory, corporate and commercial issues that affect the gambling sector.
3. UK gambling law is based on the Gaming Act 1968 and is somewhat outdated. With regards to online gambling, it is perfectly legal for a punter to gamble online from the comfort of their homes. 'There is nothing in current legislation which makes it illegal, or seeks to prevent, British residents gambling on the Internet in their own homes.'

Bizarrely, online casino companies cannot be based in the UK. As the Gambling Act was formed prior to the internet, casino licenses can only be given to land based premises. Currently online casinos operators have to be based off shore locations operating within the relevant legal requirements of their host country.

'Under current UK legislation there is no legal framework for online casino operators to conduct business in the UK, therefore operators run their businesses from other countries where online casinos are allowed to operate e.g. the Isle of Man, Gibraltar etc.' British Casino Association

The Result

This has inflated the potential risk to players as the industry is essentially self-regulated. If issues arise there are few legal come backs as the casino operators are based outside of our legal jurisdiction.

As with all industries, there are good & bad operators. Most successful casinos are recognisable brands such as Littlewoods which would have too much to lose in terms of reputation to become an unethical operator. In addition many casinos are audited by reputable accounting firms and subscribe a code of practice of their industrial body.

Current UK Gambling Laws & Casino Legislation

The current gambling laws in the UK are designed to control illegal gambling and better regulate the industry to make it safer for gamblers to make bets. One area the laws focus on is protections for children and vulnerable adults and that includes a minimum legal age for gambling and self-exclusion options for adults with gambling addiction.

Gambling Law Lawyer Uk Law

What Is The Minimum Age To Gamble Legally In The UK?

In the UK, you need to be at least 18 to gamble legally, whether that is online or live. Gaming establishments, including online casinos and sportsbooks, are legally obligated to confirm that customers are at least 18 years old by requesting ID and, if necessary, other supporting documents.

One big exception to this rule includes lotteries, and some scratch cards, and football pools. The minimum gambling age in the UK for those is 16 years old.

Online Gambling Laws

How does it impact me?

Florida Gambling Law

There are serious consequences for failing to meet the gambling age in the UK, including denying you your winnings if they find out. Always make sure you’re old enough to be gambling in the UK. In most cases, that means being at least 18 years old.