{"id":152908,"date":"2026-11-04T12:25:13","date_gmt":"2026-11-04T12:25:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/?post_type=comparative_guide&#038;p=152908"},"modified":"2026-11-04T13:26:47","modified_gmt":"2026-11-04T13:26:47","slug":"colombia-gambling-law","status":"publish","type":"comparative_guide","link":"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/chapter\/colombia-gambling-law\/","title":{"rendered":"Colombia: Gambling Law"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-152908","comparative_guide","type-comparative_guide","status-publish","hentry","guides-gambling-law","jurisdictions-colombia"],"acf":[],"appp":{"post_list":{"below_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Helix Partners<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2025\/11\/H-Partners-Logo.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>"},"post_detail":{"above_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Helix Partners<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2025\/11\/H-Partners-Logo.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>","below_title":"<span class=\"guide-intro\">This country specific Q&amp;A provides an overview of Gambling Law laws and regulations applicable in Colombia<\/span><div class=\"guide-content\"><div class=\"filter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" placeholder=\"Search questions and answers...\" class=\"filter-container__search-field\">\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<ol class=\"custom-counter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the legal definition of gambling?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Games of chance are defined by Law No. 643 of 2001 (the \u201cGambling Law\u201d) as games in which, according to rules predetermined by law and regulation, a person acting as a player places a bet or pays for the right to participate, to another person acting as an operator, who offers in exchange a prize, in money or in kind. The player wins if they correctly guess, based on the outcome of the game, which cannot be predicted with certainty, as it is determined by luck, chance, or randomness.<\/p>\n<p>Games of chance also include those in which players participate without directly paying to do so and that offer a good or service as a prize, provided that the participant guesses correctly or fulfills the required condition to win.<\/p>\n<p>Certain games of chance are excluded from the scope of the Gambling Law<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Traditional, family, and school games of chance that are not operated for profit or on a professional basis.<\/li>\n<li>Competitions intended purely for pastime or recreation.<\/li>\n<li>Promotional games conducted by licensed operators of games of chance.<\/li>\n<li>Raffles for the funding of the fire department.<\/li>\n<li>Promotional games such as raffles, bingo, sports betting, instant lotteries, and pre-printed lotto tickets operated by departmental charities, and capitalization companies.<\/li>\n<li>Sports games and games based on strength, skill, or dexterity. Bets placed on the outcome of these games are subject to the provisions of the Gambling Law.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Authorized categories of games of chance under the Gambling Law:<\/p>\n<p>Under current regulation, games of chance are classified into the following categories, each subject to specific regulatory oversight and operational frameworks:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Traditional Lotteries. The exploitation of traditional lotteries falls under the jurisdiction of the departments and the Capital District of Bogot\u00e1.<\/li>\n<li>Permanent Betting or \u201cChance\u201d. Fixed-odds game in which players select up to five digits and determine the wager amount. The outcome is linked to the results of a traditional lottery or another authorized game of chance.<\/li>\n<li>Their exploitation falls under the jurisdiction of municipalities, departments, the Capital District of Bogot\u00e1, and Coljuegos.<\/li>\n<li>Promotional Games.<\/li>\n<li>Land-Based Games operated using gaming equipment or elements in commercial establishments, where the presence of players is a necessary condition to place bets. This category includes bingo, video bingos, ball drawing machines, slot machines, casino games (blackjack, poker, baccarat, craps, punto banco and roulette), and betting on races and virtual sports from a land-based establishment.<\/li>\n<li>Betting on sports events and similar events.<\/li>\n<li>Horse Racing Events. Their exploitation falls under the jurisdiction of each department and the Capital District of Bogot\u00e1.<\/li>\n<li>Novelty Games. All games of chance not included in the previously defined categories, including but not limited to:\n<ul>\n<li>Pre-printed lotto<\/li>\n<li>Instant lotteries<\/li>\n<li>Online lotto in any form<\/li>\n<li>Online sports and real-event betting, as well as all games operated via the internet (online games) or through any other information technology that does not require the player\u2019s physical presence.<\/li>\n<li>Keno<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A game is deemed to be operated via the Internet when both the placement of the bet and the payment of prizes occur exclusively online, following the player\u2019s registration on an authorized website or platform. These games rely on virtual random number generators or the occurrence of real events whose results are not controlled. Games involving physical draws (e.g., printed lottery tickets) are not considered online games; in such instances, the Internet serves only as a marketing channel. Coljuegos is the competent authority to regulate the operation and commercialization of games under its jurisdiction through online channels.<\/p>\n<p>Novelty games fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of Coljuegos.<\/p>\n<p>According to the Gambling Law, the contract between the player and the operator for participation in any game of chance is a contract of adhesion, aleatory in nature, regulated, and involves the expectation of gain or loss, depending on the occurrence or non-occurrence of an uncertain event.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What legislation applies to gambling? Please provide a summary of the legal\/regulatory framework.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><ul>\n<li>Political Constitution of Colombia (Article 336). It grants the State the exploitation of the fiscal monopoly over games of chance. Revenue from the operation of such activities, must be allocated to a prevailing social purpose.<\/li>\n<li>Law No. 643 of 2001, whereby the regulatory framework for the fiscal monopoly on games of chance is established.<\/li>\n<li>Decree No. 4144 of 2011, by which the institutional placement of the National Council for Games of Chance (CNJSA) is determined and its functions are reassigned.<\/li>\n<li>Decree No. 4142 of 2011, by which the Industrial and Commercial Company of the State that administers the Fiscal Monopoly on Games of Chance, COLJUEGOS, is created.<\/li>\n<li>Decree No. 1278 of 2014, which regulates the operation of localized games of chance.<\/li>\n<li>Decree No. 3034 of 2013, which regulates the operation and technical conditions of traditional lotteries.<\/li>\n<li>Resolution of 5 November 2024, issuing the technical annex of Acuerdo No. 014 of 2013, that regulates the localized game called \u2018Betting on Races and Virtual Sports\u2019 (ACVD, for its Spanish abbreviation).<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20250017074 of 2025 issuing the annex of technical requirements for raffles.<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20250022644 of 2025. By which the Judicial Police Unit of COLJUEGOS, is created, its Coordinator is appointed and the public officials who are part of it are determined.<\/li>\n<li>Law No. 80 of 1993, which establishes the general legal framework governing the concession and procurement regime applicable to operators of games of chance at the territorial level.<\/li>\n<li>Law No. 599 of 2000. Colombian Criminal Code which punishes the illicit exercise of a state monopoly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Legislation applicable to online games.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Regulation of games of luck and chance of national order (Reglamento de los Juegos de Suerte y Azar del Orden Nacional de Competencia de Coljuegos \u2013 Acuerdo No. 08 of 2020, amended by Acuerdo No. 02 of 2021, Acuerdo No. 06 of 2023 and Acuerdo No. 01 of 2026)<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20224000026034 of 2022, issuing the Technical Requirements for Online Games, and Chapter VII regarding live casino game types dated 23 June 2023.<\/li>\n<li>Acuerdo No. 07 of 2024, which establishes the regulation of the game of chance denominated KENO.<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20244000022654 of 2024, by which Coljuegos establishes new provisions and guidelines on responsible gambling<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20195100044514 of 2019, by which Coljuegos establishes the minimum criteria and parameters that authorized operators in the gambling sector must adopt for the implementation and operation of a procedure for the prevention and control of ML\/FT, amended by Resolution No. 20215000012784 of 19 May 2021.<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20161200025334 of 2016, as amended by Resolutions 20201000008294 of 2020 and 20250021304 of 2025, introduced by Coljuegos regarding operator guarantee requirements.<\/li>\n<li>Resolution No. 20231000019054 of 2023, issued by Coljuegos, regulating the advertising of online games.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Which body\/ies regulate gambling?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Pursuant to Decree No. 4144 of 2011, the National Council for Games of Chance (CNJSA) is responsible for regulating and supervising games operated at the regional level. The administration of such games is the responsibility of regional governments.<\/p>\n<p>Coljuegos is responsible for the regulation and oversight of the following games operated at the national level, pursuant to Decree No. 4142 of 2011.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>National Raffles.<\/li>\n<li>Promotional Games.<\/li>\n<li>Land-Based Games, operated using gaming equipment or elements in commercial establishments, where the presence of players is a necessary condition to place bets.<\/li>\n<li>Betting on sports events and Similar Events<\/li>\n<li>Novelty Games.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are licences available? If so: a) What is the duration of a licence? b) What types of licences are available? c) Are there different types of licences for B2C and B2B operators? d) Do software suppliers need to be licensed?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><strong>What is the duration of a licence?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Concession contracts granted by Coljuegos to operate online games must have a duration of at least three years and no more than five years. All authorised online gaming verticals under the Gambling Law are covered by a single authorisation or concession contract.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What types of licences are available?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Coljuegos concession contract for operating online games consists of a B2C licence that covers all authorized verticals under the Gambling Law, including RNG-based casino games (such as slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, bingo, poker, and virtual games), live casino, instant win games, fixed-odds betting on sporting and non-sporting real events, as well as e-sports and fantasy sports.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Are there different types of licences for B2C and B2B operators?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>No. Under Colombian Gambling Law, only a B2C online gaming licence is established. Coljuegos does not grant B2B licences.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Do software suppliers need to be licensed?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>No. There is currently no B2B licence requirement in Colombia. Instead, compliance with the Technical Requirements for the Operation of Online Games in Colombia determines whether a B2B provider is permitted to offer its services in the market.<\/p>\n<p>Only certified games and platforms may be offered by licensed operators.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are any types of gambling products prohibited?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>In Colombia, only gaming products authorised under the applicable regulatory framework may be legally operated. Any product or game that does not fall within the authorised categories is considered prohibited.<\/p>\n<p>Prohibited products include, for example, lotteries, raffles, or betting on non-approved virtual events when offered without specific authorisation. This also includes cross-betting products or random prize draws that are not licensed or regulated.<\/p>\n<p>Within the category of online games, Acuerdo No. 08 of 2020 (Article 1.3.9) establishes specific prohibitions on betting on real events. Online operators may not offer bets on outcomes generated from slot machines, casino table games, bingo, or any other game whose result is determined by a real random number generator, nor may they offer bets on events that involve lottery or numerical elements. The same rule also expressly bans betting linked to financial indices, securities, cryptocurrencies, or other forms of virtual or unregulated digital currencies. Finally, operators are expressly prohibited from offering bets on events that infringe fundamental rights or on any political events. In addition, Acuerdo No. 01 of 2026 excludes from the online instant-win games category permanent betting or \u201cchance\u201d, traditional lotteries, instant lotteries (scratch cards), pre-printed lotto, online lotto, keno and any other forms of regulated lotteries.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, Acuerdo No. 06 of 2023 does not permit Keno to be offered under an online gaming concession. Keno is regulated under a separate licensing framework (Acuerdo No. 07 of 2024) and requires its own authorisation.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, only games that comply with the technical and regulatory standards set by Coljuegos and are explicitly listed within the authorized categories may be legally offered in this jurisdiction. Any game not included in the authorized categories, or expressly restricted under the Gambling Law, is considered prohibited.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the headline application procedure? Please include any eligibility and other application requirements, including approximate application costs and any need to establish a local presence.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The licensing process in Colombia is administered by Coljuegos and follows a standardised procedure. Applicants must submit legal, financial and technical requirements. Application is free of charge.<\/p>\n<p>A local presence in Colombia is required. This includes a Colombian legal entity or subsidiary, a registered address, a local bank account for company and player funds, and the appointment of a Compliance Officer based in the country.<\/p>\n<p>It is only legal to use a .co domain and only one domain is permitted per licence. Operators should only target Colombian residents and sign-ups should require Colombian national ID cards or valid foreigner resident ID cards. For the case of Venezuelan migrants, operators may accept Temporary Protection Permits (PPT) and Special Stay Permits as valid identification documents.<\/p>\n<p>Main Documents and Information Required<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Legal Representative\u2019s Identification Document<\/li>\n<li>Applicant\u2019s Financial Statements<\/li>\n<li>Bank Documentation<\/li>\n<li>Certification of Compliance with the Technical Requirements for Online Games<\/li>\n<li>Estimated Contract Value<\/li>\n<li>Coverage for Prize Payment and Refunds<\/li>\n<li>Social Security and Parafiscal Compliance Certificate<\/li>\n<li>Manual for the System of Prevention and Control of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (SIPLAFT Manual)<\/li>\n<li>Code of Conduct<\/li>\n<li>Appointment of Compliance Officer (MLRO)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h4>Financial and guarantee requirements:<\/h4>\n<ol>\n<li>Working capital (KT): Current Assets \u2013 Current Liabilities \u2265 1,450 Colombian statutory monthly minimum wages (Salarios M\u00ednimos Mensuales Legales Vigentes \u2013 \u201cSMMLV\u201d)<a href=\"#_ftn1\" name=\"_ftnref1\"><sup>[1]<\/sup><\/a>, equivalent in 2026 to COP 2,538,812,250 (approx. EUR 710,867)<a href=\"#_ftn2\" name=\"_ftnref2\"><sup>[2]<\/sup><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Fixed annual exploitation rights: 811 SMMLV (approx. EUR 397,000).<\/li>\n<li>Variable exploitation rights: 15% of gross income less prizes paid.<\/li>\n<li>Administrative fee: 1% of the total fixed and variable exploitation rights.<\/li>\n<li>Guarantee mechanism covering players\u2019 funds: minimum of COP 615,000,000 (approx. EUR 172,200). During the first year of operation, the guarantee must be updated every six months to the higher of (i) 8.1% of net gaming revenue (NGR) for the preceding six months or (ii) COP 615,000,000. Thereafter, it must be updated annually to the higher of (i) 4.1% of NGR for the preceding year or (ii) COP 615,000,000.<\/li>\n<li>Insurance policies (liability, salaries and benefits, non-contractual civil liability): amounts depend on five-year financial projections.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Operators may guarantee the payment of prizes and refund of player funds through one of the following mechanisms:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fiduciary trust<\/li>\n<li>Bank guarantee<\/li>\n<li>Insurance policy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The applicable guarantee coverage must be updated in accordance with the periods and percentages set out above.<\/p>\n<p>A temporary 16% National Consumption Tax applies to online gambling in Colombia for 2026 under Decree No. 0240 of 2026. The taxable event is the deposit made by each player with the operator, while the tax base is GGR (total bets less prizes paid during the relevant two-month period). The measure is temporary and remains in force until 31 December 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Decree No. 0240 of 2026also requires third parties, including payment, technology, software and content providers, to refrain from providing services to unauthorised online gambling operators.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#_ftnref1\" name=\"_ftn1\">[1]<\/a> For 2026, the SMMLV is COP 1,750,905.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#_ftnref2\" name=\"_ftn2\">[2]<\/a> Approximate EUR amounts are calculated using the COP\/EUR exchange rate of COP 1 = EUR 0.00028.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Do individuals within the business need to be personally licensed or authorised? If so, please provide headline requirements.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Individuals do not generally require separate personal gambling licences. However, operators are required to appoint a Compliance Officer (Money Laundering Reporting Officer, MLRO), who must ensure that the company complies with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) regulations and implement an AML\/CFT manual in accordance with the System for the Prevention and Control of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism (SIPLAFT).<\/p>\n<p>The appointed Compliance Officer must meet the following criteria:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Must be a direct employee of the company or, at minimum, hold a second-level management position.<\/li>\n<li>Cannot be a member of the company\u2019s control or audit bodies.<\/li>\n<li>Must have experience or training in quality management systems, risk management, or project management, with a focus on AML\/CFT controls.<\/li>\n<li>Must be registered and approved by Coljuegos, which requires submitting their curriculum vitae and a formal letter of acceptance of the position.<\/li>\n<li>Cannot hold the same position in more than one licensed operator.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In the event of the Compliance Officer\u2019s resignation, the Legal Representative of the company temporarily assumes the responsibilities of the position until a new officer is appointed and approved.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is advertising of gambling permitted and, if permitted, how is it regulated?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes. Advertising of gambling is permitted in Colombia provided that it is carried out either by licensed operators authorised by Coljuegos or by third parties, acting on their behalf under a contractual relationship. Gambling advertising is regulated primarily by Law No. 643 of 2001 and Resolution No. 20231000019054 of 2023, which set out the mandatory standards on responsible gambling, audience targeting, transparency of the operator\u2019s identity, and content restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>All forms of advertising, sponsorship, and promotion must comply with Coljuegos\u2019 mandatory marketing standards, which include:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Content or designs targeting minors or involving minors in any way are prohibited.<\/li>\n<li>Advertisements must not generate false expectations of winnings.<\/li>\n<li>All marketing materials must include a responsible gambling message and clearly indicate that participation is restricted to adults in Colombia (18+).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Operators may offer bonuses, sponsorships, or promotional initiatives such as incentives for player registration or participation, provided that these initiatives do not alter the game dynamics or mislead players regarding the nature of the game; and the terms, conditions, and validity of such promotions are clearly published on the operator\u2019s website or interactive channels.<\/p>\n<p>The Colombian Council of State (Consejo de Estado) provisionally suspended several provisions of Resolution No. 20231000019054 of 2023 pending the outcome of annulment proceedings. The interim measure suspends the application of certain provisions concerning advertising investment limits, sanctions and fines, and grounds for unilateral termination of concession contracts arising from advertising-related breaches.<\/p>\n<p>Accordingly, the marketing investment caps and related enforcement measures described below are currently subject to this provisional suspension.<\/p>\n<p>Marketing Investment Cap (provisions subject to provisional suspension)<\/p>\n<p>Under the provisions subject to provisional suspension, advertising expenditure was restricted to 20% of the Base of Calculation for Advertising Investment (BCIP, as abbreviated in Spanish), calculated as follows:<\/p>\n<p>BCIP = GGR\u2013 variable exploitation rights (15%) \u2013 administrative fee (1%)<\/p>\n<p>Alternatively, the total advertising investment was capped at 11,000 Colombian monthly minimum wages, with a lower cap of 8,000 Colombian monthly minimum wages during the first year of operation.<\/p>\n<p>The resolution also provided for an annual marketing investment plan to be submitted to Coljuegos and compliance with the relevant caps.<\/p>\n<p>Sanctions for non-compliance with Resolution No. 20231000019054 of 2023 included:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Unauthorized use of brand or marks: Companies that use or have used names, brands, or commercial insignias of operators without Coljuegos\u2019 prior authorization will not be granted concession contracts.<\/li>\n<li>Concession contracts will not be granted to legal entities that are associated with game suppliers who appear on unauthorised websites or that conduct promotional activities illegally in Colombia.<\/li>\n<li>Contractual penalties: Breaches result in a contractual non-compliance declaration and a fine of 1.5% of the concession contract value. A third breach during the contract term could lead to unilateral termination of the concession.<\/li>\n<li>Coljuegos may impose administrative sanctions against individuals or companies that advertise, sponsor, or promote illegal gaming or engage in advertising not carried out by operators authorized by Coljuegos.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are marketing affiliates permitted? If so, are they licensed or regulated?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Marketing affiliates may collaborate with licensed operators, and must strictly comply with all advertising, sponsorship, and promotional requirements established by Coljuegos. Any affiliate that promotes or facilitates unlicensed gambling is subject to administrative sanctions under Articles 4 and 44 of Law No. 643 of 2001, as this conduct is considered an unlawful intervention in the State monopoly.<\/p>\n<p>According to article 61 of the Consumer Protection Statute (Law No. 1480 of 2011), the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce (SIC) also has jurisdiction over the advertising of gambling services when it is directed at consumers. Activities of influencers, affiliates or third parties promoting gambling, fall under the scope of consumer protection law, and the 2020 Influencer Advertising Guidelines, issued by the SIC, operate as the technical standard used by the SIC to determine transparency and disclosure obligations.<\/p>\n<p>In this context, the SIC may impose the sanctions established in Article 61 of Law No. 1480 of 2011, which include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fines of up to 2,000 Colombian legal monthly minimum wages;<\/li>\n<li>Temporary closure of establishments for up to 180 days;<\/li>\n<li>In cases of recidivism or serious violations, permanent closure or the permanent removal of the website or online platform used for the advertising;<\/li>\n<li>Temporary or permanent prohibition from producing, distributing or offering certain products or services;<\/li>\n<li>The destruction of goods when they pose a risk to consumer health or safety;<\/li>\n<li>Successive fines of up to 1,000 Colombian legal monthly minimum wages for failing to comply with SIC orders.<\/li>\n<li>Additionally, when it is proven that administrators, directors, legal representatives, partners or other natural persons authorised or executed the infringing conduct, the SIC may also impose personal fines of up to 300 Colombian legal monthly minimum wages and the prohibition from engaging in commercial activities for up to five (5) years.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the penalties for offering, facilitating or marketing unlawful gambling, and can the gambler be penalised for participating in unlawful gambling?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>In Colombia, offering, facilitating, or marketing gambling activities without authorisation from Coljuegos constitutes an illegal activity under article 4 of Law No. 643 of 2001 subject to administrative, criminal, and fiscal sanctions.<\/p>\n<p>From an administrative perspective, Coljuegos may initiate enforcement actions against natural or legal persons that promote, sponsor, or advertise illegal gambling operations, including marketing affiliates or intermediaries who collaborate with unlicensed operators. Such measures may include financial penalties and the administrative blocking of related websites and payment channels.<\/p>\n<p>According to article 312 of the Colombian Criminal Code, as amended by Law No. 1393 of 2010, any person who organises, operates, or facilitates unauthorised games of chance may face imprisonment from six (6) to eight (8) years and a fine ranging from five hundred (500) to one thousand (1,000) Colombian legal monthly minimum wages.<\/p>\n<p>As for players, individuals who participate in unlawful gambling are not criminally prosecuted, but they lose any right to claim winnings or refunds, and their participation is not protected under consumer or gaming regulations applicable to authorised operators.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Briefly detail key requirements for licensees, including ongoing payment and reporting requirements.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><ol>\n<li>Local presence: The applicant must be a Colombian legal entity or a foreign company with a subsidiary in Colombia, duly incorporated and registered before the Chamber of Commerce and DIAN (tax authority).<\/li>\n<li>Concession contract: A three to five-year renewable concession contract must be signed with Coljuegos, granting the operator the right to offer all authorised online gambling products under the single licence framework.<\/li>\n<li>Documentary requirements: Applicants must submit corporate documentation (certificate of incorporation, by-laws, Chamber of Commerce registration, and tax identification), technical documentation proving compliance with Coljuegos\u2019 standards, and financial statements demonstrating solvency.<\/li>\n<li>Technical certification: All platforms, RNGs, and games must be certified by a testing laboratory approved by Coljuegos. Certification must demonstrate compliance with Coljuegos\u2019 Technical Requirements for Online Games. Likewise, the Technical Gaming System must meet these standards. The inspection system must be hosted in a Tier III data centre in Colombia and include the required inspection infrastructure for Coljuegos\u2019 supervision. Regulation requires a minimum player return (RTP) of 83%. Required technical certifications must be maintained throughout the concession.<\/li>\n<li>Local compliance officer: Appointment of an AML\/CFT Compliance Officer located in Colombia is mandatory.<\/li>\n<li>Financial guarantees:\u2013 Working capital: Current Assets \u2013 Current Liabilities \u2265 1,450 Colombian statutory monthly minimum wages (SMMLV), equivalent in 2026 to COP 2,538,812,250 (approx. EUR 710,867).\u2013 Players\u2019 funds guarantee (using an authorised mechanism): Minimum COP 615,000,000 (approx. EUR 172,200) During the first year, the guarantee must be updated every six months to the higher of (i) 8.1% of NGR for the preceding six months or (ii) COP 615,000,000. Thereafter, it must be updated annually to the higher of (i) 4.1% of NGR for the preceding year or (ii) COP 615,000,000.\u2013 Insurance policies: For civil liability, salaries, and social benefits.The required guarantees must remain valid throughout the concession.<\/li>\n<li>Taxes and fees:\u2013 Variable exploitation rights: 15% of gross income less prizes paid.\u2013 Fixed annual exploitation rights: 811 SMMLV (approx. EUR 397,000). \u2013 Administrative fee: 1% of the total fixed and variable exploitation rights.\u2013 National Consumption Tax: Temporary 16% National Consumption Tax applicable to online gambling during 2026.Operators must make the applicable payments within the prescribed periods and comply with the corresponding payment and filing obligations.<\/li>\n<li>AML and responsible gambling: Implementation of the SIPLAFT AML\/CFT programme, registration before the UIAF, and publication of a responsible gambling policy with access to self-exclusion tools. Operators must also comply with the applicable AML\/CFT reporting requirements.<\/li>\n<li>Colombian bank account: Licence holders must hold a bank account in Colombia to manage player funds. The account holding player funds must maintain a balance sufficient to cover withdrawable player balances, which must be certified to Coljuegos upon request and at least once a month.<\/li>\n<li>Reporting and ongoing compliance: Operators must submit the required financial, technical, AML\/CFT and responsible gambling reports to Coljuegos and provide any additional information requested for supervisory purposes. They must also notify Coljuegos of relevant corporate changes, including changes to the legal representative and certain changes to the company\u2019s shareholding or capital.<\/li>\n<li>Ongoing operational requirements: Throughout the concession, operators must maintain the required technical certifications and guarantees, ensure adequate protection of player funds, comply with player identification and AML\/CFT requirements, timely pay prizes and withdrawals, and ensure continued compliance with Coljuegos\u2019 technical and operational standards.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Briefly detail key anti-money laundering requirements.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Operators in Colombia must implement and maintain a comprehensive AML\/CFT framework known as SIPLAFT, pursuant to Coljuegos Resolution No. 20195100044514 of 2019, as amended by Resolution No. 20215000012784 of 2021.<\/p>\n<p>The SIPLAFT must include customer due diligence (KYC), risk assessment, internal policies, control measures, and reporting mechanisms to detect and prevent suspicious activities. Operators must register with the UIAF (Financial Information and Analysis Unit) and submit the following monthly reports within the first ten (10) calendar days of the following month:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Individual transactions: Transactions of COP 5,000,000 (approximately EUR 1,400) or more per player in a single transaction.<\/li>\n<li>Multiple transactions: Aggregate monthly transactions of COP 15,000,000 (approximately EUR 4,200) or more per player.<\/li>\n<li>Absence of transactions: Where no reportable transactions occurred during the previous month.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Operators must also submit Suspicious Transaction Reports (ROS) to the UIAF when they identify transactions or activities that may be associated with money laundering or terrorist financing, regardless of the transaction amount.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Briefly detail key responsible gambling (or safer gambling) requirements.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Operators must implement a Responsible Gambling Programme in accordance with Coljuegos Resolution No. 20244000022654 of 2024. The programme must promote responsible play, prevent excessive gambling, and provide self-control and support tools for players.<\/p>\n<p>Key obligations include appointing a staff member to lead the programme, implementing awareness and prevention measures, and ensuring that minors (under 18) are not targeted or allowed to play.<\/p>\n<p>Operators must display responsible gambling messages on their platforms and advertisements and include a direct link to Coljuegos\u2019 Responsible Gambling microsite. Advertising must not present gambling as a guaranteed source of income, and only Coljuegos-authorised operators may advertise gambling services.<\/p>\n<p>Online operators are required to offer self-exclusion tools and the official Coljuegos risk-factor test to identify potentially problematic gambling behaviour. The self-exclusion option must be visible, easily accessible, and allow players to select exclusion periods (in days, weeks or months). Players may cancel their self-exclusion at any time, but cancellation becomes effective 72 hours after the request. Operators must also maintain and update a registry of self-excluded players and ensure compliance with data protection laws.<\/p>\n<p>An annual report on the implementation and results of the Responsible Gambling Programme must be submitted to Coljuegos within the first 15 working days of January. Non-compliance may result in regulatory or contractual sanctions and, where legally applicable, termination of the concession contract.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Briefly detail shareholder reporting and approval threshold(s).<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Colombian gaming regulations do not establish a specific shareholding threshold to be reported directly to Coljuegos. However, in accordance with Articles 631-5 and 631-6 of the Colombian Tax Code, as regulated by DIAN Resolution No. 000164 of 2021, any changes affecting the Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) must be reported to the Single Registry of Beneficial Owners (RUB, as abbreviated in Spanish). A UBO includes any individual who directly or indirectly holds 5% or more of the entity&#8217;s capital or voting rights, benefits from 5% or more of its assets, profits or returns, or otherwise exercises control over the entity.<\/p>\n<p>Failure to comply with the reporting obligations may result in penalties under Article 658-3 of the Colombian Tax Code, including a penalty of one (1) Tax Value Unit (UVT) per day of delay, equivalent to COP 52,374 (approximately EUR 14.63) for 2026.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Briefly detail the regulator\u2019s enforcement powers, including sanctions and common themes.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Coljuegos has broad supervisory and enforcement powers under Law No. 643 of 2001, the concession contract and AML Resolution No. 20195100044514 of 2019. It may conduct inspections, request information, and audit both technical and financial systems.<\/p>\n<p>In cases of non-compliance, Coljuegos may impose administrative sanctions, including warnings, monetary fines or temporary suspension of operations, where legally applicable. Termination of a concession contract is a separate contractual remedy.<\/p>\n<p>The regulator has also intensified its enforcement efforts against illegal gambling, focusing on large-scale website and URL blocking, payment-related measures and administrative sanctions. These actions include issuing blocking orders against websites used to operate or promote unauthorised gambling activities, as well as targeting social media profiles advertising unlicensed betting operators.<\/p>\n<p>Coljuegos is also the competent administrative authority to investigate and sanction unlawful gambling activities. Where the conduct constitutes a criminal offence under the Colombian Criminal Code, the matter may be referred to the Office of the Attorney General for criminal investigation and prosecution.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the tax rate?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Online gambling operators in Colombia are subject to the following gaming-related charges and taxes:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Variable exploitation rights: 15% of Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), calculated as total bets less prizes paid, subject to a minimum player return (RTP) of 83%.<\/li>\n<li>Administrative fee: 1% of the total fixed and variable exploitation rights.<\/li>\n<li>Fixed annual exploitation rights: 811 Colombian legal monthly minimum wages (SMMLV), equivalent to COP1,750,905 (approximately EUR 397,000) for 2026, payable annually during the concession.<\/li>\n<li>National Consumption Tax: A temporary 16% National Consumption Tax applies to online gambling operations during 2026 under Decree No. 0240 of 2026, calculated on GGR.<\/li>\n<li>Corporate income tax: The general corporate income tax rate is 35%.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Additionally, qualifying player winnings are subject to a 20% tax on occasional gains, with applicable withholding obligations for operators.<\/p>\n<p>Operators must comply with the applicable tax filing, payment and withholding requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is cryptocurrency permitted for online gambling and, if permitted, how is it regulated?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>No. Cryptocurrency is not permitted as a payment method for online gambling in Colombia.<\/p>\n<p>Under Article 1.5.10 of Acuerdo No. 08 of 2020, the Colombian peso (COP) is the only authorised currency for acquiring gaming credits and withdrawing funds. The regulation expressly prohibits gambling transactions in foreign currencies, virtual currencies and cryptocurrencies.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, Article 1.5.5 establishes the authorised payment methods, including bank accounts, credit cards, payment instruments offered by entities authorised and supervised by the Colombian Financial Superintendence (SFC), postal payment services, prepaid cards and cash payments through authorised physical locations.<\/p>\n<p>Accordingly, licensed online gambling operators cannot accept cryptocurrency deposits or process player withdrawals in cryptocurrency. Prize payments and withdrawals must be processed through authorised payment methods in accordance with Article 1.4.2 of the Acuerdo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any proposals for changing gambling laws and regulations in the next 12-24 months? If so, please provide an overview of the proposed changes and likely timing.<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes. Coljuegos recently published a draft resolution proposing a comprehensive reform of its AML\/CFT framework (SARLAFT\/FPADM), which would repeal the existing regime established under Resolution No. 20195100044514 of 2019, as amended by Resolution No. 20215000012784 of 2021.<\/p>\n<p>The proposed changes include introducing a risk-based AML\/CFT framework aligned with FATF standards, establishing additional qualification requirements for Compliance Officers, strengthening beneficial ownership identification and reporting obligations, replacing fixed monetary reporting thresholds with inflation-adjusted Tax Value Units (UVT), revising customer identification thresholds, extending record-retention requirements, and introducing an annual red-flags report.<\/p>\n<p>The public consultation period closed on 9 October 2026, and the final resolution has not yet been published.<\/p>\n<p>Regarding timing, Coljuegos must review and address the comments received before issuing the final resolution. However, no specific deadline has been established for completing this process. Consequently, the timing of adoption remains uncertain, particularly following the appointment of a new President of Coljuegos on 2 October 2026, which may influence the regulator&#8217;s priorities and the pace of the reform.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What key regulatory developments are proposed or on the horizon in the next 12-24 months?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>In addition to the proposed AML\/CFT reform described above, several regulatory and legal developments may affect Colombia\u2019s online gambling sector over the next 12\u201324 months.<\/p>\n<p>One significant development is the pending decision of the Colombian Council of State (Consejo de Estado) regarding the legality of regulatory provisions governing advertising investment limits, sanctions and fines, and grounds for unilateral termination of concession contracts arising from advertising-related breaches.<\/p>\n<p>Another relevant development concerns the taxation of online gambling. The tax policy priorities of Colombia\u2019s new President and administration may influence whether VAT on online gambling is reintroduced through future tax reforms, similar to the tax reform proposal previously submitted to Congress by the former administration.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Do you foresee any imminent risks to the growth of the gambling market in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>One of the main risks to the growth of Colombia\u2019s online gambling market is tax uncertainty. Although the current 16% National Consumption Tax is a temporary measure scheduled to expire at the end of 2026, there is a risk that similar taxes could be reintroduced or maintained through new emergency measures or future tax reforms.<\/p>\n<p>Recent developments illustrate this uncertainty. In 2025, a temporary 19% VAT was introduced on online gambling in response to the public-order emergency arising from the armed conflict in the Catatumbo region. In 2026, a separate 16% National Consumption Tax was introduced following a new emergency declaration related to severe flooding.<\/p>\n<p>Although the Constitutional Court has reviewed these emergency measures, their different legal bases and outcomes demonstrate the uncertainty surrounding temporary gambling taxation. Further emergency declarations or legislative reforms could result in additional taxes, potentially affecting operators\u2019 profitability, investment decisions and the competitiveness of the regulated market.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">If a gambling start-up was looking for a jurisdiction in which to commence its activities, why would it choose yours?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Colombia\u2019s i-gaming market is maturing and consolidating over time. Whilst the Colombian licence is inward looking and cannot be used to target foreign jurisdictions, the population is large (circa 54 million), also having a well sized gambling population. The market has localised, enabling sponsorships of local football teams, and marketing to take place on the ground (traditional advertising).<\/p>\n<p>Requiring significant investment compared to offshore markets, Colombia has taken the online industry and localised it, enabling longevity for companies willing to put the funds and resources behind a tailored business plan.<\/p>\n<p>Another advantage is Colombia&#8217;s open licensing framework, which allows eligible operators to apply for a licence without participating in a competitive tender process, unlike other regulated markets.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, Coljuegos has intensified its efforts to combat illegal gambling through website blocking, payment-related measures and enforcement actions, helping to protect the competitiveness of the regulated market.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n<div class=\"word-count-hidden\" style=\"display:none;\">Estimated word count: <span class=\"word-count\">5903<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/twentyseventeen\/src\/jquery\/components\/filter-guides.js\" async><\/script><\/div>"}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide\/152908","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/comparative_guide"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=152908"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}