As you may be aware, EarthHour is dedicated to online gambling globally, not just in one country. Even though my site is in English, I care equally about Asia, Africa and the UK, which is why it’s kind of mind-boggling to me how I’ve neglected to write an article detailing just where online gambling is legal and where it is not. Fear not, though – that article is here now! Keep in mind that this actually took quite a bit of research to make sure all of the information is up to date, but in case I’ve made a mistake somewhere, or if there’s been some sort of development following the writing of this article, then by all means please let me know!
United Kingdom
Let’s start with the easiest one – yes, online gambling is completely legal in the United Kingdom. The only requirement is that the casinos in question need to have been licensed by the Gambling Commission, and optionally tested by one or more independent bodies to ensure fairness. That’s really it. As long as you live in the UK and you see the Gambling Commission logo in the footer of the casino, you’re good to go!
United States
Things are pretty complicated in the US, but to put it simply, the overwhelming majority of the country doesn’t offer online gambling. After 2006, a new law made it illegal for banks to process payments to online casinos, which effectively made it forbidden for US customers to play in any casinos, be they foreign or national (if you want to read more about it, this article offers a lot of insights). Currently, only three states offer online gambling – Nevada (obviously), Delaware and New Jersey, though a couple more, such as Pennsylvania, may legalize it soon enough.
Canada
Canada’s laws are also complicated, but not nearly to the extent of the US. Basically, casinos need a license from the government (much like in the UK), but even if no casinos in your province have managed to get a license, there’s no laws stopping you from playing internationally.
South America
Online gambling is legal throughout South America, both locally and in foreign casinos. The only exception to the rule is Brazil, which has only seen the legalization of horse racing and lotto.
Australia
Sadly, Australia is in the same boat as Brazil – online gambling is completely illegal safe for lotteries and horse racing. The same goes for New Zealand. However, there’s no reason for you to worry at all – if you live in the region, all you have to do to play is use a foreign site. Overseas casinos and betting sites are permitted.
Africa
South Africa was by far the most complicated country to research, as I couldn’t find information about many of the countries in the region (so I’m just going to assume that online gambling is forbidden there – correct me if I’m wrong). However, South Africa in particular has been something of the African Mecca when it comes to gambling in general, so it goes without saying that online gambling is completely legal there.