Online casinos are illegal in Tajikistan following a comprehensive gambling ban implemented in 2011 that prohibits virtually all forms of gambling. The government has ordered internet service providers to block access to offshore online gambling websites as part of enforcement efforts (1). The Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Internal Affairs jointly oversee implementation of gambling legislation, conducting raids on illegal gaming operations and prosecuting violators with fines, asset confiscation, and imprisonment (1).
All land-based casinos and sports betting parlors were permanently banned in 2011 after the government determined gambling caused severe social and economic harm, particularly to low-income citizens. Shortly after the law took effect, all casinos in the capital Dushanbe were forcibly closed (1). The state-run lottery represents the sole legal gambling option available to Tajik citizens, operated under strict government control with age restrictions requiring participants to be at least 18 years old (1).
"The government has ordered the blocking of access to offshore online gambling sites; access providers are under obligation to assist it in these directions."
Despite VPN usage allowing some citizens to access offshore gambling platforms, such activity remains explicitly illegal under Tajik law. The Criminal Code criminalizes organization or maintenance of gambling casinos, gaming tables, and related activities (2). As of 2024, no political or public movement exists to relax gambling restrictions, with conservative attitudes toward gambling expected to prevail indefinitely (1). The government considers gambling an immediate threat to social stability and public welfare, showing no indication of permitting casinos, sports betting, or online gambling legalization (1).
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-tajikistan/
https://bwcimplementation.org/sites/default/files/resource/TJ_Criminal%20Code%20of%20Rep%20of%20Tajikistan_EN.pdf
Last updated: 13-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
