Sports Betting Law & Regulation | Legal.ge

SportsBettingLaw

How much does a betting license cost?

The annual fee for a betting shop permit is 200,000 GEL. Additional fees apply for online operations depending on the setup.

Can a bookmaker refuse to pay winnings?

Yes, if fraud, a system error, or a violation of game rules is proven, the bookmaker has the right to suspend or void winnings.

What is the minimum age for betting?

The minimum age for Georgian citizens is 25 years, and for foreigners - 18 years. Age verification is strictly enforced.

Are winnings taxed?

Yes, a 2% income tax is withheld from the player upon withdrawal of funds.

Sports Betting Law and Bookmaker Regulation

Sports Betting Law is one of the most dynamic and strictly regulated fields in Georgia. Bookmakers are obliged to comply not only with licensing requirements but also with complex financial regulations aimed at preventing money laundering and protecting players' rights. In recent years, legislation regarding advertising, age limits, and the registry of dependent persons has been tightened. Online and land-based bookmakers must undergo a complex licensing procedure at the Revenue Service and ensure technical compliance. Lawyer assistance is essential for businesses to avoid substantial fines, maintain their license, and protect themselves from lawsuits by unscrupulous players.

What Does This Service Cover?

Gaming law experts on Legal.ge offer full legal services:

Licensing: Obtaining a permit (license) to organize a betting shop for both physical locations and online platforms.
Software: Managing the certification process for the gaming platform and odds generator.
Internal Regulations: Drafting and approving game rules, regulations for accepting bets and paying out winnings.
AML/KYC Compliance: Implementing internal anti-money laundering instructions and setting up customer identification (verification) procedures.
Player Disputes: Legal representation during disputes with players (e.g., bet cancellation, account blocking, refusal to pay winnings).
Tax Consulting: Managing specific taxes (GGR tax) and fees imposed on bookmakers.

Common Situations When You Need a Lawyer

Lawyer involvement is critical in the sports betting business:

"Suspicious Match": Unnatural activity was detected on a specific match, and you need legal justification for voiding bets.
Advertising Fine: The regulator fined you for placing prohibited advertisements, and you want to appeal.
Account Blocking: A player is suing you for unfounded account blocking and confiscation of funds.
License Suspension: The Revenue Service threatens to revoke your permit due to technical regulation violations.
Dependent Persons: A system error allowed a person on the banned list to play, resulting in a fine.

Georgian Legal Framework

The field is regulated by the Law "On Organization of Lotteries, Games of Chance and other Prize Games" and the Law "On Gambling Business Fee." Licenses are issued by the Revenue Service. Normative acts of the Financial Monitoring Service are also important.

Process: How Collaboration with a Specialist Works

The process includes:

Audit: Checking the business model and platform.
Documentation: Preparing permit and internal documents.
Permit: Submitting application and receiving the permit.
Operation: Ongoing legal support and reporting.
Defense: Defending interests in court and administrative bodies.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Managing a bookmaker is a high-risk business. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers who have international and local experience in the gambling business. We will help you protect your business and ensure its stable development. Find a specialist on Legal.ge.