Online casino gambling in Jamaica operates under a complex regulatory framework that is currently undergoing significant development and modernization (1)(2). The country's gambling industry is governed by multiple pieces of legislation, including the Casino Gaming Act of 2010 and the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act, with oversight provided by several regulatory bodies including the Casino Gaming Commission and the Betting, Gaming & Lotteries Commission. While land-based casino gaming has been legally regulated since 2010 through integrated resort developments, online casino operations remain largely unregulated under current legislation.
The Jamaican government has been working toward comprehensive iGaming legislation that would consolidate the current three regulatory bodies into a single Jamaica Gaming Commission, creating an umbrella agency responsible for licensing and regulating the entire gambling environment on the island (1)(2). Currently, online gambling is permitted in very limited forms, primarily restricted to horse race betting through Caymanas Park and simulcast racing, while broader online casino operations await the implementation of new regulatory frameworks. The government has proposed allowing interactive casinos to operate within the country's jurisdiction, but specific licensing and regulatory measures are still being developed.
"The Commission is the body authorized with the issuing of casino gaming licences to entities wishing to operate as a casino gaming facility."
Under current regulations, casino gaming in Jamaica is restricted to Integrated Resort Developments (IRDs), which must combine various tourism amenities including hotel rooms, sporting and entertainment facilities, service centres, and casinos (1). Jamaica's first casino is expected to open for business in 2025, following government approval of amendments to the Casino Gaming Act. While residents of Jamaica are generally not permitted to gamble online under current laws, the evolving regulatory landscape suggests that comprehensive online gambling regulations may be implemented in the near future, potentially opening the market to both domestic and international operators seeking to provide legal online gaming services within Jamaican territory.
Source:
https://www.cgc.gov.jm/
https://www.bglc.gov.jm/
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
