Gambling Age In Malta

Minimum Age: 19

Details and Explanation

Legal Age Requirement: In Malta, the minimum legal age for participating in gambling activities is 19. This applies to casinos, sports betting, lotteries, and online platforms, as per the Gaming Act, enforced to protect minors from gambling-related risks.

Offline / Land-Based Gambling: Land-based gambling is legal and regulated, with five casinos, including Dragonara and Portomaso in St. Julian’s, offering slots, poker, and table games. Betting shops and lottery outlets are also present. Venues must implement rigorous age verification through ID checks to enforce the 19-year-old age limit, supporting Malta’s gambling hub status.

Online Gambling: Online gambling is legal and highly regulated, with Malta being a leading iGaming jurisdiction. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licenses operators worldwide, offering casinos, sports betting, and poker. Strict age verification and compliance are enforced. Unlicensed offshore sites are not typically blocked, but players using them face risks outside Malta’s framework.

Regulation and Oversight: The Malta Gaming Authority regulates gambling under the Gaming Act of 2018, overseeing licensing, compliance, and consumer protection. The MGA enforces fair play, anti-money laundering measures, and responsible gambling initiatives, with a favorable tax regime attracting global operators while ensuring player safety.

Enforcement and Penalties: Malta enforces its gambling regulations rigorously. Licensed operators face inspections to ensure age verification and licensing compliance. Violations, such as allowing underage gambling, lead to fines, license revocation, or criminal charges. Players engaging in underage gambling may face fines or account closures, reinforcing Malta’s reputation for a secure gambling environment.