Land-based poker is legal in Sierra Leone under regulations administered by the Ministry of Finance and the National Tourist Board, though only one licensed casino currently operates (1). The Bintumani Hotel and Casino, located in Aberdeen Hill, offers poker and other gaming products as part of its entertainment offerings for both locals and tourists (1). The legal minimum age for gambling in Sierra Leone is 18 years and above, ensuring responsible participation among citizens (1).
Online poker exists in an unregulated grey area, with no specific regulations or licensing body to monitor and regulate internet gambling activities (1). While online gambling is not illegal, there is no licensing procedure clearly set for operators or players engaging in online poker (1). Land-based gambling and lotteries are regulated under the Ministry of Finance, but online gambling lacks any specific regulatory framework or government oversight (2).
"Currently, there have been no specific regulations on online gambling, meaning that though gambling is not illegal, there is no licensing body to monitor and regulate it."
The government introduced a 10% tax on betting companies in the 2024 Finance Act, reflecting increased oversight and fiscal regulation of the gambling sector (2). Given Sierra Leone's openness towards gambling and the government's recognition of its economic potential, there is prospect for future online regulation that could include poker (1). The country already operates successful gambling operations including state lotteries and land-based casinos, suggesting an online licensing framework might emerge within the next few years to protect players and provide structure for operators.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-sierra-leone/
https://legalpilot.com/country/sierra-leone/
Last updated: 10-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
