The iGaming industry is going strong in many locations around the world. Done right, it can boost economies and create jobs.
The world of iGaming is also evolving extremely quickly and providing more ways for people to play. It has become easier to find casinos and betting sites, and there are millions of people who enjoy playing a variety of different games. Some of the games have been around for hundreds of years, and others have existed for a matter of months, but they all tend to be governed by the same sets of laws (at least, each country has its own take).
People are often looking to explore the options that they have for iGaming, and this includes the rules as well as the variety of games that are on offer. People can find more information on casinos in each country and what is on offer at AskGamblers, which shows the different options by country.
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European rules
Europe’s online gambling scene is one of the most active and regulated on the planet. Many European countries have their licensing systems, and most allow some form of legal iGaming. But the details vary widely from one border to the next.
The United Kingdom stands out. The UK has had a long history with gambling, and the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is one of the most important regulators out there. It keeps a close eye on operators and ensures that games are fair and that customers are protected. Any company wanting to operate legally in the UK must follow strict rules. The UK’s early adoption of lots of casino games has led to a big industry. The country was one of the first to get blackjack after it had been invented in Italy and France (though they called it 21 or Pontoon).
Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands also have strong regulatory frameworks. These countries issue licenses to operators and often run their government-backed gaming platforms. In most cases, both local and international companies can apply to operate, though they must follow regional guidelines.
Germany recently launched a new gambling treaty, making online slots and poker legal nationwide. The regulations come with limits like monthly deposit caps and bet restrictions. It’s legal, but not wide open.
Then there’s France. Legal online gambling exists, but is limited. The government controls much of it, and only certain types of games are allowed.
In Eastern Europe, things are shifting, too. Countries like Latvia and Bulgaria have opened up to iGaming, while others remain cautious. Each country sets its own pace and follows its own rules.
United States: A Patchwork of Laws
The United States is a maze when it comes to iGaming. There’s no single nationwide rule. Instead, each state decides for itself whether to allow online gambling and what kinds. Travel planning in the US might involve understanding the difference between rules and laws (as well as all of the other aspects of smart travel planning).
Some states have embraced the industry. These states often allow online casinos and sports betting, and they have created strong licensing and regulation systems. These markets are booming, with massive revenue numbers and steady growth.
Other states permit online sports betting only. Some states are still on the fence. And many, especially in the South and Midwest, continue to ban most forms of iGaming.
The situation can get confusing fast. A site that’s legal in one state might be totally off-limits in another. Federal laws, like the Wire Act and the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), create additional layers of complexity. These laws don’t outlaw online gambling outright, but they affect how transactions are handled across state lines.
Canada: Legal but Limited
Canada’s laws around iGaming have evolved recently. For a long time, online gambling was only officially allowed through provincial lottery corporations. However, private operators existed in a legal gray zone. Many were offering services to Canadians without being explicitly banned.
That’s changing. In 2022, Ontario became the first province to launch a regulated iGaming market that allows private companies to operate legally under government oversight. The move has opened the door for others, and in March 2025, Alberta introduced the iGaming Alberta Act to similarly open up online gambling.
Asia’s Varied Landscape
Asia is a mixed bag if ever we’ve seen one. China bans nearly all forms of online gambling. The government takes a hardline stance, with heavy crackdowns and censorship.
Japan only recently opened up its laws to allow integrated resorts with casinos. Online gambling remains mostly prohibited, although there are exceptions for sports betting on horse racing and lottery games.
In contrast, the Philippines is a hub for online gaming operations. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) licenses and regulates operators, and many online casinos are run out of the country, mainly targeting overseas customers.
Australia and New Zealand are Heavily Regulated
Australia has clear but strict laws. The country has long enjoyed gambling and knows slot machines as “pokies”. The Interactive Gambling Act prohibits offering online casino games like slots and roulette to residents, though sports betting is legal through licensed operators. Enforcement focuses on preventing illegal overseas companies from targeting Australian players.
New Zealand’s rules are similar. Only the state-owned operator can legally offer online gambling to local users.
African Markets on the Rise
Africa’s iGaming industry is still young but growing fast. South Africa is the continent’s largest regulated market with clear laws around online betting, but tighter restrictions on casino games.
Kenya and Nigeria have also seen growth, particularly in mobile sports betting. These countries are developing regulatory systems, though enforcement can be spotty.
South America
Several Latin American countries are making moves to legalize and regulate iGaming. Colombia led the way, becoming the first South American country to fully regulate online gambling.
Brazil recently passed legislation to allow sports betting and is now working on regulations for online casinos. Argentina allows online gambling in some provinces, with others considering similar frameworks.
As we can see from the long list, there are some varied approaches, and different countries have their own ways of doing things. It is always important to understand the rules before staking.
