New Online Gambling Regime Launching in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic's Ministry of Finance has unveiled a new resolution overseeing the authorization of casinos and online gambling activities. The comprehensive text outlines the prerequisites, administrative fees and essential criteria that operators must fulfill to secure a license.

Under Resolution 136-2024, the regulatory framework encompasses the operation of online games of chance and sports betting. The Directorate of Casinos and Games of Chance will oversee these activities, as disclosed by the Dominican Government.

Licensing Details

• The licensing fee for online casinos is DOP 20,473,481 ($346,000)

• Sports betting licenses are priced at DOP 15,355,111 ($260,000)

• A separate license, designated for other online applications, costs DOP 10,236,740 ($173,000)

Each license is valid for five years, with restrictions on transferability for the initial three years.

Legislative and Administrative Background

After a meticulous journey, the authorization of casinos and online gambling in the Dominican Republic reached its apex on February 28, 2024. The Casino Commission, led by its president, conveyed a formal recommendation, under letter DM-051-2024, to the Minister of Finance.

This pivotal step paved the way for the issuance of a resolution, orchestrated by Minister José Manuel Vicente, heralding the inception of the nation's regulated Internet gaming and gambling sector.

Comprising 36 pages divided into seven chapters and 36 articles, the regulation marks a significant milestone in the country's legal landscape concerning gaming and gambling.

Regulatory Framework Highlights

• The initial chapter defines the key terms and concepts intrinsic to online gaming activities

• Article 5 lays out stringent prerequisites for entities aspiring to operate within the country's jurisdiction

• Article 8 describes the Internal Control Procedures Manual, requisites for internet gaming platforms, administrative levies and operational stipulations

In addition, the resolution meticulously addresses every facet of the authorization process essential for securing the coveted license. It delves into the operational and security protocols integral to technological gaming and betting platforms. Notably, Article 27 underscores the operator's obligatory implementation of a robust responsible gaming initiative, inclusive of a comprehensive self-exclusion mechanism.

The resolution signifies a defining moment for the Dominican Republic’s gaming industry, ushering in a regulated era that prioritizes structure, responsibility, and transparency.