Online Gambling and Sports Betting Regulations Imposed by Brazilian Government
The Brazilian Ministry of Finance has announced that online sports betting will be legal in Brazil starting January 1, 2025. The regulatory framework is focused on authorizing licensed operators in the online sports betting and gaming industry [1][4].
The announcement marks a significant step forward in the legalization process of online gambling and sports betting in Brazil, which has been behind schedule [2]. The Ministry of Finance has received 113 applications for a gambling license as of last week, with 108 of these applications seeking to offer sports betting services from January 1, 2025 [3].
The regulatory framework includes requirements for the granting of gambling licenses, including compliance with international guidelines for the prevention and combating of money laundering and terrorist financing [6]. Each game must offer players an RTP (Return To Player) of 85% [7].
Providers that receive a license will be able to offer sports betting in Brazil from 2025. However, other forms of online gambling, such as casino-style games like online slots, card games like Blackjack and Poker, and Roulette, are implied by mentions of the emerging "iGaming" market and certifications for iGaming platforms. These games may be permitted under regulation but are less precisely detailed in public announcements [1][5].
Meanwhile, there are ongoing legislative proposals, such as Senate Bill PL 3,754/2025, aiming to impose tighter restrictions on online gambling, including esports betting and advertising rules. These proposals could affect the scope and operation of online gambling activities [2].
New applications submitted now will be processed within 180 days, and the issued licenses will have a validity of 5 years and cost approximately 30 million BRL (5.4 million euros) [4]. The Ministry of Finance guarantees that all applicants who submit their applications by August 20 will receive their license by January 1, 2025 [8].
Players must be provided with a 'Paytable' before the game begins, from which all winning and combination possibilities can be derived. Moreover, all important key data of the game or bet must be visible, and players must have insight into the current valid odds and multiplication factors [9].
The Ministry of Finance is giving preference to the applications of Sportingbet and Big Brazil, with no explanation provided [10]. Five additional applications for a Brazilian gambling license have been received, including Betano, Sportingbet, Superbet, Rei do Pitaco, and Big Brazil [11].
It is likely that the legalization will be postponed to January 1, 2025, with the outcome of meeting this new deadline uncertain [12]. In summary, online sports betting is legally authorized for online gambling in Brazil starting 2025 according to the Ministry of Finance, with a broader regulated online gaming market developing alongside. Other games such as esports betting and online casino products are in regulatory consideration or subject to pending legislative restrictions [1][4][5][2].
Online casinos in Germany might find opportunities in the expanding iGaming market in Brazil, given the legalization of online sports betting starting January 1, 2025. Due to ongoing legislative proposals such as Senate Bill PL 3,754/2025, the scope and operation of online gambling activities, including sports betting, may be subject to stricter regulations.
