The legal landscape surrounding online poker in Guyana is not explicitly defined, leaving it in a state of ambiguity. The primary piece of legislation governing gambling is the Gambling Prevention Act, which was amended in 2007 to allow for licensed casinos within hotels and resorts (1). This amendment led to the establishment of the Guyana Gaming Authority to oversee these land-based operations. However, the legislation does not directly address online gambling, including online poker. This means that while it is not expressly legal, it is also not explicitly illegal for Guyanese citizens to participate in online poker games offered by offshore operators.
For those looking to operate gambling businesses within Guyana, the legal framework is much clearer. The Guyana Revenue Authority outlines the stringent requirements for obtaining a Betting Shop Licence, which involves a detailed application process, including a business registration, a police clearance, and approval from the Central Housing and Planning Authority and the Guyana Fire Service (2). This indicates that while the government has a clear process for regulating physical betting establishments, the digital realm of online poker remains a grey area.
"The Minister may make regulations for all or any of the following purposes - to establish a Gaming Authority and to give it, or authorize it to give any other body or person, any power, duty, or function considered by the Minister to be necessary for the administration of sections 27 to 31 and this section, including casino regulations"
The absence of specific laws for online poker means that players in Guyana who choose to play on international poker sites do so in an unregulated market. This lack of regulation presents both opportunities and risks. While players can access a wide variety of games and platforms, they are not protected by Guyanese law in case of disputes with operators. This is a key consideration for anyone in Guyana interested in playing online poker.
Source:
https://parliament.gov.gy/documents/acts/2778-act_5_of_2007.pdf
https://www.gra.gov.gy/auctioneer-betting-shop/
Last updated: 04-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
