Uruguay has approved new rules to strengthen controls over online gambling and sports betting platforms. The measures introduce stricter responsible gaming standards, mandatory identity checks, and tighter rules on advertising and user protection. The reforms arrive as the government reviews the future of online gambling regulation in an expanding digital market.
Uruguay Enforces Tighter Responsible Gambling Via Resolution No. 015/2026: A Quick Summary
- Uruguay has adopted Resolution No. 015/2026 to strengthen controls over online gambling and sports betting platforms. The measures focus on responsible gaming, user protection, and tighter oversight of digital operators.
- Mandatory identity verification for all users on licensed platforms is a central requirement. Operators must verify existing accounts within 180 days. Enhanced authentication protocols include biometric checks, “proof of life”, and age verification through state-accredited providers.
- The resolution also mandates international responsible gaming certifications and stricter rules on advertising, especially to protect minors. These changes come as the government considers broader reforms to online gambling, including the regulation of offshore and private operators in the future.
New Responsible Gambling Rules Include Mandatory Identity Verification
Uruguay’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, through the National Directorate of Lotteries and Betting, has adopted Resolution No. 015/2026 to reinforce responsible gaming obligations. The resolution sets mandatory guidelines aimed at preventing addictive behaviour and protecting vulnerable groups, especially minors and self-excluded individuals.
The latest measure responds to the rapid growth of digital gambling platforms in Uruguay. The new framework applies to licensed operators offering online gambling and sports betting services. It strengthens oversight to ensure that excluded users cannot access gambling platforms and that age limits are enforced effectively. The resolution aims to improve transparency and public protection across the sector.
All users registering on authorised online gambling platforms must now complete a mandatory identity verification. Licensed operators have 180 days to update their systems and verify the identities of existing registered users. This transition period is designed to allow orderly compliance with the new requirements.
Operators representing Uruguay’s quinielas, state-regulated daily lottery games, and related betting services must introduce enhanced authentication systems. These include in-person or remote checks, biometric verification, and a “proof of life” process linked to the Civil Identification Service. State-accredited providers must perform the checks and verify players’ ages.
International Certification, Platform Obligations, and Advertising Restrictions Enforced
The resolution also requires licensed quiniela operators to obtain a Level 4 World Lottery Association Responsible Gaming certification within the established deadline. This aligns Uruguay’s gambling sector with recognised international standards, including Canada, on responsible gaming.
The requirement applies to operators managing betting pools and similar services. Betting websites and mobile applications must also provide clear and direct access to responsible gaming information. These features must be easy for users to find and use.
The list includes resources on problem gambling prevention, the prohibition of access by minors, self-exclusion tools, risk-behaviour detection, helplines, and links to specialist organisations.
The resolution, signed by Marcelo Visconti, Director of DNLQ, reinforces the ban on advertising or promotions aimed at minors. All gambling-related communications must include clear messages on the prohibition of gambling by minors and the promotion of responsible gaming.
These rules apply across all digital channels used by licensed operators. Just like in the Philippines, offshore operators are currently not permitted to offer gambling services in Uruguay, although this position may change in the future.
In November, the government confirmed plans to revive discussions on online gambling regulation during the current term. Senator Felipe Carballo of the Broad Front has presented a draft law proposing a State Online Gaming Platform under a “mixed model” in which the State “directly exploits part of the activity” while regulating private operators.
The resolution marks a significant step in Uruguay’s approach to regulating online gambling. It reflects a broader regional effort to update laws, aligning with digital growth and rising consumer risks. By tightening controls and setting clearer standards, the authorities aim to create a safer and more accountable gambling environment.