Poker is legal in Jamaica under regulated conditions established by the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1965. The Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission was established in 1975 as a statutory body to regulate and control the operations of betting and gaming activities on the island. Gaming machine and premises operators must be licensed to operate gaming machines, including poker boxes and slot machines, and the premises on which the machines are located (1).
Online gambling in Jamaica was legalized in 2014 with approval from the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission, though options remain limited. The Betting Gaming and Lotteries Act governs most forms of gambling in the country, including betting shops, lotteries and land-based casinos. Gaming machine operators must submit license application forms with evidence of payment to Tax Administration Jamaica, and licenses are valid for one year from April 1 to March 31 (1).
"The Betting Gaming & Lotteries Commission is a statutory body established in 1975 under the provisions of the Betting Gaming & Lotteries Act to regulate and control the operations of betting and gaming and the conduct of lotteries in the island."
The Commission grants permits, licenses and approvals to persons or entities considered fit and proper to conduct betting, gaming and lottery activities. As the Competent Authority for the gaming industry, the BGLC ensures that operators are compliant with anti-money laundering and other regulatory requirements. The Proceeds of Crime Act was passed by Parliament in 2007 to combat financial crime and provide for the investigation and recovery of proceeds of crime in the gambling sector (2).
Source:
https://www.bglc.gov.jm/gaming-machines-premises/
https://jis.gov.jm/government/agencies/betting-gaming-lotteries-commission-bglc/
Last updated: 04-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
