What laws apply, how it has changed over the years, specific legislation, etc.
Is it safe to gamble online in South Africa? What does the law say? Will it be changing soon? Why are there online casinos offering jackpots in Rands if it's not legal? I really want to win those jackpots, so what should I do?
- The current South African law does not prohibit South African casino punters from accessing online gambling services. South Africans can enjoy gambling online, free money. You can also enjoy legal online gambling games for real money at the best SA online gambling sites. Is online gambling.
- Legal Online Gambling in South Africa. In terms of interactive gaming (online gambling), section 11 of the gambling act 2004 issued by the NGB still remains firm, it states that: “A person must not engage in or make available an interactive game except as authorised in terms of this Act or any other national law”.
In 2011, there was an update made in the gambling laws of South Africa, which says that online gambling is illegal within the borders of the country. Even though there are certain online casinos that accept native South African players, from a legal.
If you've ever wondered about the answer to one of these questions, or any other questions related to playing at online casinos in South Africa, you need to read this Legal Guide to Gambling in South Africa. Hopefully we'll answer all your questions by covering the following topics:
- What laws currently apply to online gaming in RSA?
- How has it changed over the years?
- Can players expect a change in legislation any time soon?
- Where can South Africans play with peace of mind?
And if that seems like way too much reading, here are the crib notes: Yes, it's safe for you to gamble online in South Africa. The law says that online gambling is not allowed, but as a player you don't have too much to worry about.
So what laws currently apply to online gaming in RSA?
Presently, the law on online gambling in South Africa states that it is illegal for any online casino to offer gambling services within the RSA borders. While this seems pretty cut and dried, Internet gaming providers have found loopholes like setting up their operations in countries where online gaming is legal.
And while the Gambling Act also states that it's unlawful for SA players to sign up for an account to gamble online, it places the bulk of the responsibility on the operators to ensure that they don't accept SA players, rather than holding the players themselves accountable. And since we have yet to hear about any individual players that have been singled out and had legal action taken against them, we're pretty confident that if you play at a fully licensed and regulated casino in a reliable jurisdiction, you'll be just fine.
South Africa's first Gambling Act came into force in 1965. Since then, there have been many changes, most of which applied to land-based casinos. With the invention of the Internet, online gambling also had to be included. This was done in the National Gambling Act of 2004, where online gambling was banned in SA. Fast-forward to September 2011, where the Act went a step further by making it clear that operators were banned from offering online gambling services to South African residents. Although there have since been suggested amendments tabled in Parliament, that was the last amendment to date.
So can we expect a change in legislation any time soon?
Industry experts predict that government will eventually grasp the obvious economic, social and practical benefits of regulating the online gambling industry. However, there is no telling when that will happen.
In the meantime, South African players should take care to play only at fully licensed casinos that are based in a reputable jurisdiction. It's also very important to make sure that your preferred South African online casino makes use of up-to-date and comprehensive security systems to protect your sensitive information. Another thing to look out for is whether the online casino undergoes third party audits. This will ensure that they comply with the minimum standards for the industry, which will further protect your rights and ensure fair play practices.
In order to make sure that you play only at the best gaming providers, we've been keeping a list of carefully selected South African online casinos for you to choose from. Each one of these Internet casinos offer fantastic welcome bonuses, as well as lucrative ongoing offers and promotions to get you on your way toward winning the jackpot of your dreams.
Since before South Africa became a republic, gambling in most forms was banned. While the laws have changed significantly, it is certainly not a free for all, however, gambling in and of itself is no longer illegal. Gambling in land-based establishments in South Africa is legal and regulated. For many years, South Africans traveled outside of the legal borders of South African in order to go to a casino. With the changes in the gambling law, this is no longer necessary. Online gambling in South Africa is still illegal at this time.
SA'S GAMBLING ACT OF 1965
The South African Gambling Act of 1965 ruled gambling as illegal. Gambling, such as horseracing, was legal. The reason for this is because horseracing is considered a sport. In the 1970s, there were a number of illegal casinos created, with the number rising until there were about 2,000 illegal casinos in the mid 90s. Along with the change from a conservative government to a democratic one, the gambling laws were updated in 1994. At that time, gambling was legalised. In 1996, South Africa introduced a national lottery and regulated and licensed casinos.
CHANGES TO THE GAMBLING ACT IN 2004
Are Online Casinos Legal In South Africa
In 2004, the 1996 Act was repealed, and the National Gambling Act of 2004 came into effect. While land-based gambling was still allowed, online gambling was no longer considered legal. Again, sportsbetting, even if it was done online, was still considered legal. While online gambling is illegal, the emphasis and main responsibility seems to lie with the gambling operators and the financial institutions. To date, no individuals have been prosecuted for playing at online casinos.
Online Casinos In South Africa Legally
GAMBLING LAW TODAY
In 2008, there was an attempt to legalise and regulate the online gambling market in South Africa, however, since there was strong opposition, the Act has not yet been accepted as law. In 2010, the North Gauteng High Court issued a ruling that gambling transactions though both local and offshore operators is illegal. While both players and operators are fully aware of this law, there are still many casino choices open to South African players.
Those who choose to play at online casinos should make sure that the casinos are safe and secure, and have a good reputation. Although the online casinos will not be licensed in South Africa, it is important to choose a casino that is fully licensed in a recognised gaming jurisdiction.
Many of the online casinos that still offer their sites to South African players will offer players the chance of playing in South African Rands (ZAR), and thereby avoiding exchange rate fees. Many casinos also offer a special Welcome Bonus or free money offer to those who are located in South Africa. In addition to this, players should keep an eye open for an online casino with top notch Customer Support team. Customer Support is available 24 hours a day, with many support teams offering a South African toll free telephone number.