Online Casinos in Russia: What the Law Says and How to Play Legally

Online casinos have been banned in the Russian Federation since 2009. This is due to legislative changes aimed at limiting gambling in the country. The law allows gambling establishments to operate only in designated zones such as:

“Yantarnaya” (Kaliningrad Region).

“Krasnaya Polyana” (Sochi).

“Primorye” (Far East).

“Siberian Coin” (Altai Krai).

“Golden Coast” (Crimea, under construction).

Registration in Russia is not possible.

Websites are licensed in offshore jurisdictions (Curacao, Malta, Gibraltar).

Roskomnadzor blocks access to such platforms. However, users bypass these blocks using VPNs or mirror sites.

Main reasons for the ban:

1. Social protection: combating gambling addiction. In the early 2000s, slot machines were widespread across the country, leading to a rise in problem gambling.

2. Financial transparency: offshore casinos avoided paying taxes.

3. Security: preventing fraud and money laundering.

Currently, only the following are legally allowed:

Bookmakers (online and offline) with licenses.

Lotteries: not classified as gambling but regulated by a separate law.

Use services from licensed bookmakers.

Participate in state lotteries.

Even when playing on offshore sites, Russian citizens are required to pay taxes on winnings.

Account statement to verify deposit.

Screenshots of transactions in the casino's personal account.

Proof of tax payment on winnings.

Financial institutions have the right to block accounts or request explanations about the origin of funds.

The Russian legal framework in the gambling sector needs improvement. Possible changes:

Legalization of online casinos: following the example of the UK, Denmark, Sweden.

Enhanced control: introducing strict rules to protect vulnerable citizens.

The creation of new gambling zones, such as the under-construction "Golden Coast," may also attract part of the online audience.

Currently, online casinos are banned in Russia, but users continue to play on foreign platforms. The main takeaway is to remember the need to pay taxes and the potential risks of using illegal services. In the future, Russian legislation may reconsider its approach to regulating this sector.