Online casinos are technically legal in Fiji but operate under strict licensing requirements established by the Gaming Act 2009, which governs all gambling activities in the country (1). The Fiji government, through the Office of the Attorney-General, maintains comprehensive gambling legislation that permits remote interactive gaming only for licensed operators. Gaming in Fiji is regulated by the Gaming Decree, the Gambling Act 2009, and overseen by the President of Fiji, who is responsible for issuing gambling licenses to eligible applicants aged 21 and older.
The Gaming Act 2009 establishes a restrictive framework where all forms of gambling are prohibited unless specifically authorized, with remote gambling permitted only through telephone, radio, or television channels, which technically excludes internet-based casino operations (1). However, the legislation does provide for licensed remote interactive gaming under specific conditions. The regulatory structure divides gambling into three classes: Class I (charitable and social gambling), Class II (commercial activities like bingo and gaming machines), and Class III (large-scale commercial gambling including casinos) (2).
"Any person who engages in unlicensed remote interactive gaming as a player shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine of $5,000 and imprisonment for 2 years."
The enforcement of online gambling regulations in Fiji presents significant challenges, as the laws apply specifically to Fijian businesses and residents rather than overseas operators. While unlicensed online gambling carries severe penalties including fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to two years, many international casino operators continue to serve Fijian players through offshore licensing arrangements (2). Visitors to Fiji are generally not subject to the same restrictions as residents, creating a complex legal landscape where enforcement appears limited despite the harsh statutory penalties. Licensed operators must comply with gambling turnover tax requirements of 15% of gross proceeds in addition to standard corporate taxation of 20%.
Source:
https://www.laws.gov.fj/Acts/DisplayAct/267
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-fiji/
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
