Countries with Zero Gambling Taxes on Player Winnings

Gambling has been a popular form of pastime activity for many centuries now. Some people even decide to go professional by betting to pay personal bills. But as authorities worldwide try to regulate gambling activities, some have introduced heavy taxes on player winnings. However, there are some states where winnings aren’t taxable. Below is a list of such countries.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic legalized gambling way back in 1956. However, the casino boom just started recently in the 90s. The country now boasts around 180 land-based casinos and an uncountable number of online and mobile casinos. Back to today’s topic, Czech Republic players’ winnings are theirs for keeps. Instead, the gambling operator gives 6% to 20% of their profits to the state.

Bulgaria

Gambling became legal in Bulgaria in 1993. But the first license was issued five years later. In 2008, online gambling became legal in the country, leading to an influx of online casinos. Sadly, online casino operators were required to fund the local budget by parting with a percentage of their turnover. On the other hand, lucky winners would carry everything back home.

The UK

The UK has one of the richest gambling histories in Europe, dating back to the 18th century. In 1968, the first Gambling Act was introduced and amended in 2005 to introduce online gambling and the UK Gambling Commission as the regulator. Interestingly, UK bettors don’t pay winning taxes. Rather, the operator pays 2.5% to 40% of their GGR (Gross Gaming Revenue).

Sweden

Swedish citizens have been betting legally for decades. As expected, Stockholm is the mecca of gambling in the country, with other popular cities like Malmo and Gothenburg following from a distance. In this country, players and state-owned casinos don’t pay any taxes. Unfortunately, there is a fixed tax for private operators.

Canada

Canadians have been betting since the 15th century. However, a gambling ban was introduced in 1892. That didn’t last long, though, as raffles and bingos were allowed for charitable purposes in 1900. After another ten years, betting on horse racing became legal. And in 1969, the government legalized provincial and federal lotteries. Online gambling was only allowed in the 2000s. Today, Canadian gambling winnings aren’t taxed.

Australia

The Australian gambling industry was born at the start of the 19th century. In 1810, the first horse racing event took place in Sydney at Hyde Park. More than 20 years later, Sydney Cup hosted the first lottery, with poker machines becoming legal in 1956. Australian punters who win playing in either online or land-based casinos don’t pay a dime in taxes.

Denmark

First of all, gambling in Denmark isn’t a popular activity despite having a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. That said, the Danish Gambling Authority regulates both brick and mortar and land-based casinos. Although player winnings aren’t taxed at all, the casino operator pays a massive 45% to 75% of their GGR. Now that explains why gambling is yet to pick up in this country.

Malta

Malta is the first EU country to regulate online gambling in 2000. The country passed its first gambling act called the Lotto Act in 1922. Here, the Lotteries and Gaming Authority oversees gambling activities. To spare gamblers from taxation when they win, the operators part with 15% to 40% of their GGR. And that’s not to mention the €46,000 licensing fee.

Conclusion

These are just some of the few countries where you can bet and carry every coin of your winnings back home. Other countries like Luxembourg, Italy, Germany, Finland, and Belgium also offer tax-free betting to punters. Just remember to find and play on regulated casinos to be assured of your non-taxable winnings.