Online bingo is legal and regulated in Vanuatu, operating under the Interactive Gaming Act 2000 and related legislation. The Vanuatu Gaming Authority (VGA), operating under the Department of Customs and Inland Revenue, issues licenses for online gambling operators, including those offering bingo games to both domestic and international players (1). Vanuatu was one of the first countries globally to legalize online gambling in 1999, pioneering the regulatory framework that continues to attract international gaming operators today (2).
Online bingo operators in Vanuatu must obtain an Interactive Gaming License from the VGA, which covers a wide range of gaming operations including casinos, sports betting, poker, lotteries, and bingo (2). The licensing process has been streamlined with an online application portal, and operators must demonstrate financial stability, undergo background checks, and implement anti-money laundering and responsible gaming measures (1). License applications require a fee of €5,000, with annual renewal fees of €10,000, and licenses are valid for 15 years, providing long-term operational stability for approved operators (1).
"Vanuatu has recently introduced an updated licensing structure to improve and simplify the process of obtaining licenses for online gambling. The registration and annual fees have been set at €5,000 for application and €10,000 for annual license renewal, respectively, with licenses issued for a term of 15 years."
Tax compliance for online bingo operators in Vanuatu is straightforward, with a flat 1 percent tax on gross gaming revenue, and Vanuatu imposes no corporate tax or income tax on gaming profits, making it highly attractive for operators (2). Online bingo players in Vanuatu are subject to player protection measures, including age verification requirements, responsible gaming tools, and access to self-exclusion options (1). The VGA maintains strict enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with regulations, with penalties for violations including substantial fines, license suspension, and revocation of operating authority (2).
Source:
https://gofaizen-sherle.com/gambling-license/vanuatu
https://practiceguides.chambers.com/practice-guides/gaming-law-2024/vanuatu/trends-and-developments
Last updated: 01-11-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
