Understanding Online Gambling Landscape in Switzerland
Switzerland’s online gambling landscape is shaped by stringent regulations and a focus on player protection. The Federal Act on Money Games, introduced in 2019, legalises online gambling under strict conditions. Only Swiss-based operators or international operators partnered with Swiss land-based casinos are eligible for licenses. This ensures a tightly controlled market where all operators are subject to rigorous oversight.
The Swiss Gambling Supervisory Body (GESPA) is responsible for licensing and supervising all gambling activities in the country. It is not illegal for players to access and play at offshore casinos licensed by other authorities, but doing so is strongly discouraged by the government.
When it comes to taxation, Switzerland has one of the highest gambling tax rates in Europe. Operators pay between 20% and 80% of their gross revenue, depending on their earnings. Players, however, enjoy tax-free winnings from licensed platforms.
Here is a timeline of the significant milestones in Switzerland’s gambling history:
- 1921: Any form of gambling is officially banned in Switzerland.
- 1993: Casinos are allowed to offer limited-stake gambling.
- 2000: Land-based casino gambling is fully legalised.
- 2019: Online gambling is officially legalised for licensed online casino Switzerland sites.
- 2022: The Swiss Federal Courts uphold a ban on foreign casinos.