Legality of Online Casinos within Portugal's Jurisdiction
Portugal's intricate gambling history stretches back to the state's lotteries of the 18th century. The 1930s saw the rise of its first casinos, particularly noteworthy being Casino Estoril, which debuted in 1931 and has since been acclaimed as one of Europe's largest and most prestigious casinos. The industry thrived and expanded significantly in tourist-friendly areas, especially during the 20th century, such as the Algarve.
The 2015 enactment of laws legalizing online gambling marked a transformative development in Portugal's gambling history. The Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ) has been entrusted with the oversight of both physical and digital gaming activities, extending vital consumer protections. According to recent SRIJ findings, revenues from online gambling grew by 27% in early 2024, whereas the earnings from traditional gambling venues have shown a decrease.
Taxation on Gambling Winnings
While winners from physical casinos may be subjected to taxation, gamers using locally-regulated online platforms in Portugal do not face direct taxation on their winnings. taxes are handled by the operator .
What about International Operators?
While Portuguese law doesn't prohibit players from accessing offshore casinos—platforms licensed in foreign jurisdictions—these casinos operate outside SRIJ's regulatory framework. Thus, while engaging with such platforms is permissible, it's not regulated under Portuguese law. Here is where Revpanda, an established iGaming agency with extensive expertise in the sector , steps in to guide you toward maximizing your gaming adventure in Portugal.
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