Online casino gambling exists in a legal gray area in Haiti, where no specific laws or regulations govern internet-based gambling activities (1). According to the U.S. State Department, while there are at least 62 casinos operating in Haiti with the majority being unlicensed, online gaming is specifically noted as illegal under current Haitian law (2). The country's gambling framework dates back to 1960 when President François Duvalier legalized gambling primarily to attract foreign investment, though the regulations were designed with restrictive requirements that made legal casino operations challenging.
The regulatory landscape for gambling in Haiti remains largely underdeveloped, with the Lottery of the Haitian State (LISA) serving as the primary body responsible for licensing gambling operations (1). Land-based gambling is legal but operates with limited oversight, and most casino establishments function without proper licenses. The 2010 earthquake significantly impacted Haiti's casino industry, causing many venues to close permanently, though some establishments like the El Rancho Hotel and Casino have managed to recover and continue operations.
"There are at least 62 casinos in Haiti, the majority unlicensed. Online gaming is illegal."
Despite the official prohibition on online gaming, Haitian residents can still access offshore gambling websites, as there are no specific laws preventing citizens from participating in international online gambling platforms (1). The absence of comprehensive regulatory frameworks means that players who choose to gamble online must do so through foreign-licensed operators, often without consumer protections or regulatory oversight. The country's focus remains primarily on addressing economic challenges and political stability rather than developing comprehensive gambling regulations, leaving the online casino sector largely unaddressed by local authorities.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-haiti/
https://2009-2017.state.gov/j/inl/rls/nrcrpt/2016/vol2/253403.htm
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
