Is gambling allowed in Turkey?
While the answer to this question might seem straightforward, the reality is a bit more complex. In Turkey, gambling is a highly regulated industry with a fascinating history. This guide will delve into the intricacies of gambling in Turkey, exploring its legal framework, online gambling landscape, and tax implications.
A Brief History of Gambling in Turkey
Gambling in Turkey has had a rollercoaster ride Casinos were first legalized in 1990, bringing a surge of excitement and revenue. However, concerns about money laundering and social impact led to their abrupt ban in 1998 This ban did not completely extinguish the gambling flame, as state-run lotteries and betting services continued to operate.
The Current Landscape of Gambling in Turkey
Today, gambling in Turkey exists in a regulated environment. Casinos are a thing of the past, but state-run lotteries and betting services offer legal avenues for gambling enthusiasts. Online gambling, however, remains a contentious issue. While technically prohibited, the state-owned sports betting company, IDDAA, enjoys a monopoly on internet gambling services.
The Legalities of Online Gambling in Turkey
Despite the ban on online gambling, many Turkish players continue to access foreign gambling websites. In 2013, the Turkish government took a bold step by becoming the first country to target individual players instead of operators. This means that players caught accessing online gambling services could face penalties ranging from £100 to £500.
Tax Implications for Gambling in Turkey
Gambling winnings in Turkey are subject to taxation. The specific tax rate depends on the type of gambling activity:
- Mutual Odds Betting on Sports: 5% tax on total revenue
- Betting on Horse Racing: 7% tax on total revenue
- Games of Luck: 10% tax on total revenue
The Future of Gambling in Turkey
The future of gambling in Turkey remains uncertain. It’s hard to say what the future holds given the government’s position on internet gambling and how it might affect the state-run lottery and betting services. But one thing is for sure: Turkey’s gaming market is vibrant and ever-changing.
Additional Resources
- Gambling in Turkey – Wikipedia: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gambling_in_Turkey
- Gambling laws in Turkey | CMS Expert Guide: https://cms.law/en/int/expert-guides/cms-expert-guide-to-gambling-laws-in-cee/turkey
Disclaimer:
This manual is intended only as information and should not be used as legal advice. For detailed information on Turkey’s gambling laws, please speak with a licensed legal expert.
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FAQ
How old do you have to be to gamble in Turkey?
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Country/territory
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Minimum age
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Tajikistan
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18
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Thailand
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Illegal (casinos) 20 (lottery)
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Timor-Leste
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18
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Turkey
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Illegal (casinos) 18 (lotteries)
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Is gambling legal in Turkey?
Gambling in Turkey is highly regulated. Turkey banned casinos in 1998, and it banned non-state online gambling in 2006. A state lottery ( Milli Piyango) and betting services exists, however, and has some online gambling, and illegal gambling continues to persist. Gambling horses were originally legalised in 1984, and casinos in 1990.
Is sports betting legal in Turkey?
Under Turkish law, there are three types of bets that are legal to be organized and played under the license granted by laws: Sports betting games and games of chance are regulated under the Betting Law and imprisonment and judicial fines will apply to those who provide an environment for sports betting without a license.
When did gambling stop in Turkey?
Then, over the span of a few years starting in 1997, the Turkish government reversed its stance and essentially put an end to gambling in Turkey, due to changes in Turkey gambling sites law and regulations . Dozens of casinos were forced to close and Turkish gambling laws were tightened and updated to include a ban on the internet betting.
Are there legal forms of business for gambling companies in Turkey?
To operate games of luck, betting and betting on horse racing activities, a company established under Turkish Commercial Code is required. To operate betting activities, Turkish companies can form a joint venture with foreign companies. 2.2 If yes, are there any mandatory legal forms of business for gambling companies? Yes.