Legality of Online Gambling in Uzbekistan
As of 1 January 2025, Uzbekistan has introduced a legal framework permitting gambling, lottery, and betting operations under the supervision of the National Agency for Advanced Projects. This shift marks a significant policy change, replacing the blanket ban that previously applied to both physical and online platforms. Licensed entities will now be allowed to offer regulated betting services, although the rollout and enforcement of these new regulations are still in progress.
Despite this legalization, many users continue to access offshore platforms, drawn by their wider selection of games, early availability, and broader payment options. Until local platforms become fully operational, international sites remain popular, particularly those offering multilingual support and services beyond what domestic operators currently provide.
Regulations and Local Oversight
With the new legal structure, authorities now focus on creating a controlled environment for gambling rather than enforcing outright prohibition. The National Agency for Advanced Projects will oversee licensing, compliance, and player protection standards. Local financial institutions are expected to integrate approved payment methods, which could gradually reduce reliance on foreign systems.
At the same time, unlicensed sites remain subject to blocking and payment restrictions. Regulatory bodies continue to monitor unauthorized activity, aiming to guide users toward legal options. As Uzbekistan builds its regulatory infrastructure, international platforms remain active — though they may eventually face tighter controls.
Comparing Options at Home and Abroad
| Aspect | Local Options | International Sites |
|---|
| Licensing | Now permitted under new laws | Operate without local licenses |
| Slot Selection | Still limited in early rollout | Broad and diverse offerings |
| Language | Uzbek and Russian expected | Widely supported |
| Payments | Through authorized local channels | Crypto, e-wallets, foreign cards |
| Mobile Use | Platforms under development | Fully mobile-compatible |
| Crypto Payments | Unclear under new rules | Frequently accepted |
| Payout Speed | Dependent on local infrastructure | Generally fast processing |
Choosing Offshore Casinos
With legalization in place, Uzbekistan has taken a major step toward regulating the gambling industry. While domestic platforms are still being established, many users continue to access international
sites that offer a wider range of features and faster onboarding. These services remain outside local control, though increased oversight may eventually limit their presence.
The legal landscape is changing rapidly. As licensed platforms grow and gain public trust, users may begin shifting toward regulated providers. Until then, foreign sites are likely to remain a major player in Uzbekistan’s online gambling activity — at least in the short term.