Online poker operates in a restrictive legal environment in Fiji, where the Gaming Act of 2009 broadly prohibits most forms of gambling with limited exceptions. The Act states that gambling is only permitted when conducted privately (not in public) and when the prize money does not exceed $100, meaning citizens can play poker at home with friends but cannot participate in commercial poker operations (1). Fiji does not currently issue online gambling licenses, making most internet-based poker activities technically illegal under domestic law.
The Fiji Gambling Authority and Fiji Revenue & Customs Service work together to regulate gambling activities and enforce the current prohibition on commercial gambling operations. According to the Gaming Act, there are strict penalties for anyone operating a gambling site from within Fiji without an official license, and punishments also apply to Fijian players who participate in unlicensed gambling activities (2). The government has maintained this restrictive stance since 2009 when the comprehensive gambling ban was implemented.
"Fiji does not provide online gambling licenses, and the Gambling Act specifies strict punishment for anyone operating a gambling site out of Fiji without an official license."
Despite the legal restrictions, some Fijian residents access international online poker platforms, though they do so at significant legal risk. The government has historically viewed gambling as potentially harmful to society and the economy, leading to the comprehensive prohibition framework. While there have been discussions about tourism-related gaming developments, the current legal framework remains unchanged, and online poker continues to be prohibited under Fijian law with violations subject to criminal penalties.
Source:
https://www.laws.gov.fj/Acts/DisplayAct/267
https://legalitylens.com/what-is-the-legality-of-gambling-in-fiji/
Last updated: 27-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
