Online Gambling to Become Legal in Switzerland

Rules taking effect in the new year will establish a regulated internet market and require operators to obtain Swiss licensing to participate or face blocking. Betting limits also will be enforced for poker tournaments and certain lottery and raffle games.

Switzerland is unveiling new regulations for the legalization of online gambling that will outlaw unlicensed operators from outside the country.

The rules, part of a new Gaming Act, are due to take effect January 1 with a grace period of six months for foreign sites to obtain licensing. After that, blocking measures will be implemented.

The act aims to stamp out unlawful betting, which generates around CHF250 million (US$248 million) in yearly spend by Swiss residents, and protect vulnerable members of the population with pre-set restrictions on wagering.

Licensed operators will be able to offer a variety of casino-style games, but poker tournaments, small lotteries and raffles will be subject to strict betting limits.

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