Online casinos are illegal in Myanmar under the Cybersecurity Law that took effect on July 30, 2025, which specifically criminalizes operating online gambling systems without proper authorization. The law stipulates imprisonment for six months to one year and fines ranging from MMK 5 million to 20 million for individuals, with corporate violators facing minimum fines of MMK 20 million plus confiscation of proceeds (1). The legislation does not address how online gambling platforms can obtain official approval, effectively maintaining a complete prohibition (1).
Land-based casinos are legal exclusively for foreign tourists under the Gambling Law enacted on May 7, 2019, which replaced the blanket prohibition established in 1986. The Union Government may screen and allow casinos to establish operations, though necessary stipulations regarding foreign investment ratios, compliance requirements, and capital requirements remain unspecified (2). Myanmar citizens are strictly prohibited from gambling at any casino under Section 13 of the Gambling Law, with violations punishable by imprisonment and substantial fines (2).
"Operating an online gambling system without proper authorization may result in imprisonment for 6 months to 1 year, a fine of MMK 5–20 million, or both, with the proceeds from such activities being confiscated."
The government derives revenue from foreigner-only land-based casinos and the state lottery, which remains the only legal gambling option for Myanmar citizens. Despite technical illegality, online gambling enforcement has historically been minimal, allowing many locals to gamble without prosecution, though they risk problems with payment collection when discovered (2). The Cybersecurity Law also authorizes extraterritorial penalties against Myanmar citizens found guilty of violations occurring outside the country's borders, significantly expanding enforcement jurisdiction (1).
Source:
https://www.tilleke.com/insights/myanmar-cybersecurity-law-takes-effect/
https://asialawportal.com/myanmar-legal-alert-new-gambling-law-permits-casinos-to-operate-in-myanmar/
Last updated: 13-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
