Online poker is illegal in Bhutan under the strict gambling prohibition laws outlined in Section 393 of the Penal Code of Bhutan 2004. All forms of gambling, including poker, are completely banned and carry criminal penalties for both organizers and participants (1). The only legal exception to this comprehensive gambling ban is authorized lotteries operated by the state-owned Bhutan Lottery Limited.
The Bhutanese government maintains a zero-tolerance approach toward gambling activities, considering them detrimental to society and Buddhist cultural values. The Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, along with the Department of Law and Order, actively enforces these prohibitions and has issued public notices warning against any form of gambling, including online activities (2). Both land-based and online poker remain strictly forbidden under the current legal framework, with no licensing system available for gambling operators.
"Online gambling is a significant concern. Firstly, it is illegal according to the law, and secondly, it imposes a heavy financial burden on individuals, leading to social problems, family breakups, and addiction."
Despite the strict legal prohibitions, enforcement of online gambling laws remains limited, and some residents continue to access international poker platforms. However, participating in any form of poker carries significant legal risks under Bhutan's comprehensive anti-gambling legislation. The government has shown increasing concern about the growth of online gambling activities and continues to warn citizens about the legal consequences of engaging in prohibited gambling activities, including poker games both online and offline.
Source:
https://www.bbs.bt/news/?p=157856
http://www.bhutantoday.bt/sounds-alarm-over-surging-online-gambling-craze-dlo/
Last updated: 27-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
