Online bingo operates in a partially regulated environment in Guyana, as the country legalized online lotteries and sports betting in 2021 (1). However, the legal status of online bingo specifically remains unclear, falling under the broader category of online gambling activities that lack comprehensive regulation. While the government permits certain forms of online wagering through licensed operators, most classes of digital gambling have only general regulations, leaving players exposed to significant risks (1).
Guyana's gambling regulations are governed by the Gambling Prevention Act (most recently amended in 2012) and the Government Lotteries Act (1963) (2). The Gaming Authority, established in 2008, serves as the supervisory authority for betting shops, casinos, and lotteries. While online sports betting is now accepted and regulated, online bingo and other forms of digital gambling lack dedicated licensing frameworks and consumer protections. Players who access online bingo platforms do so without comprehensive player protection measures such as deposit limits or age verification systems (1).
"As for online gambling, it is pretty mixed. It was in 2021 that major momentum took place when online lotteries and sports betting were legalised, but most classes of digital gambling have very general regulations."
The Guyanese government has recently announced plans to tighten regulations on gambling activities due to concerns about widespread social harm and uncontrolled gambling through mobile applications (2). Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo stated that gambling has expanded from hotel-based casinos to hundreds of small outlets operating through apps, creating significant social problems. While online gambling itself is not explicitly prohibited, players face risks including delayed payouts, rigged games, and loss of funds if operators close operations (1). The government is expected to implement stronger regulatory reform and higher taxation on gambling activities, which may eventually provide better consumer protection for online bingo players in Guyana.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-guyana/
https://tribuna.com/en/casino/news/2025-10-17-guyana-government-to-tighten-rules-on-community-gambling-after-surge-in-social-harm/
Last updated: 31-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
