Online bingo is legal in Nicaragua when offered through licensed operators under Special Law 766 of 2011, which specifically authorizes internet gaming operations conducted by holders of an Operator License (1). However, Nicaragua does not issue dedicated online gambling licenses; instead, only companies operating land-based casinos can apply for online permits, or foreign companies can partner with licensed land-based operators to provide technology and services (2). While the law explicitly permits online bingo through Article 48, implementation remains limited, with minimal licensed online operators currently serving the Nicaraguan market.
Players in Nicaragua can legally access offshore online bingo platforms without facing legal consequences, as no laws restrict residents from using unlicensed foreign operators (1). The Nicaraguan government maintains no list of prohibited gambling websites and has not pursued enforcement action against foreign companies offering services to local players (2). However, players using unlicensed offshore platforms operate without consumer protections, dispute resolution mechanisms, or responsible gambling safeguards, creating significant vulnerability to fraud and unfair practices.
"Internet gaming operations carried out by holders of an Operator License with one or more Official Permits may be offered to nationals, residents, and tourists. The operation of internet games will be subject to the payment of the corresponding tax as determined by the common tax legislation and its corresponding regulations."
Licensed online bingo operators in Nicaragua must comply with Ministry of Finance requirements including tax payments ranging from 5-25 percent of gross gaming revenue depending on game type, age verification for players 18 years and older, and responsible gambling safeguards (2). The regulatory framework transferred from the Ministry of Tourism to the Ministry of Finance in 2014 to strengthen oversight through the Financial Analysis Unit and Casino Control Council (1). Until more licensed online bingo operators establish operations in Nicaragua, residents continue accessing predominantly offshore platforms, missing local regulatory protections while contributing to economic leakage as winnings flow to foreign jurisdictions.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-nicaragua/
https://lcb.org/restrictions/nicaragua
Last updated: 01-11-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
