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Switzerland's strict gambling laws reshape betting and online casinos since 2019

From grey markets to strict oversight, Switzerland's gambling crackdown transformed the industry. Discover how the BGA balances fun, fairness, and addiction risks.

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3 min read
The image shows a group of men sitting around a roulette table in a casino. They are wearing...
The image shows a group of men sitting around a roulette table in a casino. They are wearing blazers and ties, and some of them are holding cards in their hands. On the table there are coins and other objects, and in the background there is a wall. The image is in black and white.

Switzerland's strict gambling laws reshape betting and online casinos since 2019

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Gambling in Switzerland: Popular but Heavily Regulated

Gambling is widespread and popular in Switzerland, whether in casinos, lotteries, or online games. Yet, as in many other countries, the industry is subject to strict regulationsβ€”rules designed primarily to prevent fraud and protect players.

Since 2019, the Federal Act on Gambling (BGA) has governed the entire gambling sector in Switzerland, consolidating previous laws and accounting for digital advancements. The goal is clear: to regulate providers and reduce risks such as gambling addiction. But what exactly do these rules entail? This article provides the answers.

Historical Background

Switzerland's regulation of gambling has deep roots. In 1923, the Lotteries Act was introduced to curb unregulated lottery operations, while casinos remained banned for decades. It wasn't until 1998 that the Casino Act allowed the reopening of gambling houses. Revenues from lotteries and casinos were largely channeled into public welfare and charitable causes.

However, the rise of online gambling created pressure for updated legislation. The old laws were no longer sufficient. In 2019, the Federal Act on Gambling (BGA) came into force, unifying earlier regulations under a single legal framework.

The Federal Act on Gambling (BGA)

Since January 1, 2019, the Federal Act on Gambling (BGA) has regulated all forms of gambling in Switzerland, replacing the outdated 1923 Lotteries Act and the 1998 Casino Act. The BGA distinguishes between casino games, large-scale games, small-scale games, and skill-based games.

  • Casino games may only be offered in licensed casinos.
  • Large-scale games, such as inter-cantonal lotteries and sports betting, require approval from the inter-cantonal authority.
  • Small-scale games, including local lotteries and small poker tournaments, fall under cantonal supervision.

Player Protection: A Core Priority

A central focus of the BGA is protecting players from excessive gambling. Providers must implement social responsibility measures and exclude at-risk individuals from participation. Additionally, since July 2019, the law has permitted Swiss online casinos to operate while blocking foreign providers through internet restrictions. These measures aim to safeguard the public from the dangers of gambling and ensure that revenues benefit society.

Categories of Gambling

Gambling in Switzerland is divided into four main categories:

  1. Casino games – Offered exclusively in licensed casinos, including classics like poker, roulette, and slot machines.
  2. Large-scale games – National lotteries and sports betting, operated only by licensed providers such as Swisslos and Loterie Romande.
  3. Small-scale games – Local events like small poker tournaments.
  4. Skill-based games – Games where ability plays a role, also subject to regulations.

Regulatory Authorities and Responsibilities

In Switzerland, oversight of gambling is shared between the federal government and the cantons.

  • The federal government is responsible for licensing and supervising casinos, with the Swiss Casino Supervisory Board (ESBK) ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
  • The cantons oversee inter-cantonal lotteries and sports betting, with the Inter-Cantonal Gambling Supervisory Authority (Gespa) issuing permits and monitoring adherence to regulations.

Smaller-scale gambling, such as local lotteries or minor poker tournaments, also falls under cantonal jurisdiction. The cantons authorize and supervise these events in accordance with their own regulations. Cooperation between the federal government and the cantons ensures comprehensive oversight of the gambling market, guaranteeing that both national and regional interests are taken into account. This clear division of responsibilities enables authorities to effectively combat illegal offerings while ensuring player protection.

Online Gambling

Online casinos have been legal in Switzerland since 2019, but only operators holding a Swiss license may offer online games. These licenses are granted exclusively to existing Swiss casinos, rendering all other providers illegal.

To crack down on unlicensed platforms, authorities implement internet blocks, restricting access to foreign gambling websites. This redirects players toward legal options while strengthening state supervision and safeguarding participants.

Player Protection and Prevention

Player protection is a cornerstone of Switzerland's Federal Gambling Act (BGS). Gambling operators are required to implement measures to prevent gambling addiction, including blocking at-risk players. Providers must identify and address suspicious betting behavior.

Strict age restrictions also apply: land-based casinos and online gambling are limited to those aged 18 and over, while traditional lotteries permit participation from age 16. These protections aim to minimize risks such as debt and addiction.

Taxes and Levies

Gambling winnings in Switzerland are subject to special tax regulations. Prizes from lotteries and sports betting up to CHF 1 million are tax-exempt, while higher amounts must be declared. This rule eases the burden on casual players and reduces administrative complexity.

Operators also contribute financially. Revenue from lotteries and casinos primarily supports charitable causes, benefiting culture, sports, and social initiatives through gambling proceeds.

Conclusion on Gambling in Switzerland

The Federal Gambling Act establishes clear rules, protecting players and ensuring fair conditions. Operators must meet high standards and obtain strictly regulated licenses. Pressure on illegal platforms remains strong, particularly in the online sector. The well-defined division of responsibilities between federal and cantonal authorities enables effective oversight, keeping gambling in Switzerland safe and well-regulated.

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