Sports betting in Chile currently operates under a complex legal framework where land-based sports betting is legal through authorized operators, while online sports betting remains largely unregulated but is undergoing legislative reform. The Superintendencia de Casinos de Juego (SCJ) serves as Chile's official gaming regulator, created through Law No. 19,995 of January 7, 2005, as an autonomous public service with legal personality that represents the State in exercising authorization, operation and supervision functions for gaming casinos in the country (1). The SCJ operates under the Ministry of Finance and has jurisdiction over all authorized gambling activities within Chile.
Currently, online sports betting platforms operate illegally in Chile, though the government is actively working to establish a regulatory framework through ongoing legislation. The Chilean Congress is reviewing a comprehensive online gambling bill (Bulletin No. 14838-03) that would regulate online gaming platforms, including sports betting operations (2). Under the proposed legislation, the Superintendencia de Casinos de Juego would be renamed to "Superintendencia de Casinos, Apuestas y Juegos de Azar" to reflect its expanded regulatory authority over online betting and gaming activities.
"Las plataformas de juego on line hoy son tan ilegales como hace un par de meses, cuando empezamos a tramitar las indicaciones y así lo he sostenido siempre."
The proposed regulatory framework includes strict licensing requirements and enforcement mechanisms to combat illegal gambling operations. Online gambling platforms that have operated illegally in Chile during the 12 months prior to license application will be prohibited from obtaining operating licenses under the new legislation (2). The bill establishes comprehensive criteria for determining illegal operations, including accepting payments in Chilean currency, advertising in national media, sponsoring local events, and using Chilean payment methods. Once implemented, this legislation will create a legal pathway for sports betting operators to obtain proper licensing and operate within Chile's regulated market, while providing consumer protections and generating tax revenue for the government.
Source:
https://www.scj.cl/acerca-de-la-scj/
https://hacienda.gov.cl/subsecretaria/noticias/plataformas-de-juego-on-line-no-podran-obtener-licencia-si-han-operado
Last updated: 24-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
