Online poker occupies a unique legal position in Brazil, where it is classified as a game of skill rather than gambling under Brazilian jurisprudence. According to Brazilian law, poker is not illegal because it is considered a skill-based game rather than pure chance (1). However, the regulatory landscape for online gambling has undergone significant changes with the enactment of Law 14.790 on December 29, 2023, known as the "Law of Bets," which established a comprehensive framework for online betting and gambling activities.
The Brazilian government has implemented new regulations requiring all online gambling operators to obtain proper licensing from the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting under the Ministry of Finance. Only companies that applied for licenses by September 17, 2024, could continue operating until December 31, 2024, while new comprehensive regulations took effect on January 1, 2025 (2). The minimum age for all gambling activities in Brazil is 18 years, as established by the Brazilian Civil Code.
"Strict rules ensuring bettor protection will take effect on January 1, following a year of intense efforts to organize a sector that has operated without oversight since 2018."
While poker's legal classification as a skill game provides some protection, the new regulatory framework means that online poker platforms must now comply with Brazil's comprehensive gambling regulations or risk being blocked by government authorities. The government has demonstrated capability to block unauthorized gambling sites and has implemented strict oversight mechanisms. Players can continue to access licensed poker platforms, but the regulatory environment now requires operators to meet stringent licensing requirements, taxation obligations, and responsible gambling protocols to serve Brazilian customers legally.
Source:
https://www.legal500.com/guides/chapter/brazil-gambling-law/
https://www.gov.br/secom/en/latest-news/2024/12/regulations-introduced-by-the-secretariat-of-prizes-and-betting-will-place-brazil-in-a-regulated-betting-market-by-2025
Last updated: 27-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
