egal Gambling Age Around the World: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about gambling or sports betting, knowing the legal age requirements in your country is essential. Just like with alcohol or tobacco, gambling has age limits that vary depending on local laws. This guide covers the age rules in major regions worldwide to help you stay informed and play responsibly.

United States

In the US, the legal gambling age varies by state and type of gambling:

• Casino gambling: Most states require you to be 21 (e.g., Nevada, New Jersey), but some allow 18 (e.g., California card rooms, Michigan for certain games).

• Sports betting: Usually 18 or 21, depending on the state. For example, Florida allows sports betting at 18 but casino gambling at 21.

Examples:

• Nevada (Las Vegas): 21 for all gambling

• Florida: 18 for sports betting, 21 for casinos

• California: 18 for card rooms, often 21 for tribal casinos

Always check your state’s laws before playing.

Europe

Most European countries set the legal gambling age at 18, though there are exceptions:

• Standard age: 18 years old for casinos and sports betting.

• Exceptions: Greece requires 23; Malta requires 25 for citizens; Portugal varies between 18 or 25 depending on the casino.

The UK allows most gambling at 18, with some lotteries accessible at 16.

Asia

Gambling laws in Asia vary widely:

• Many countries set the legal gambling age between 18 and 21 (e.g., Macau and Malaysia at 21, South Korea at 19).

• Some countries ban gambling entirely (e.g., Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Thailand).

• The Philippines allows gambling from 21 for casinos, and 18 for sports betting.

Oceania

• Australia: Legal gambling age is typically 18.

• New Zealand: Casino gambling age is 20.

• Other Pacific nations have varying rules or bans.

Canada

• Legal gambling age is usually 19, but some provinces like Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta allow gambling at 18.

Latin America

• Most countries have a legal gambling age of 18.

• Gambling regulations vary by country.

Africa

• The gambling age is often 18 or 21.

• Some countries prohibit gambling completely (e.g., Algeria, Libya).

• Nigeria sets the age at 20.

FAQs

What is the legal gambling age in Florida?

• 18 for lottery and pari-mutuel betting; 21 for casinos.

What about Las Vegas?

• 21 for all types of gambling.

Is online poker legal at 18 in California?

• Usually yes, but some platforms may require 21. Always check.

Can I gamble in the UK at 16?

• Some lotteries and scratch cards are available at 16, but most gambling requires 18.

Final Thoughts

Always verify the local laws before gambling or betting, as age restrictions are strictly enforced and vary widely. Responsible gambling starts with knowing the rules — stay informed and play safe!