Sports betting in Nicaragua operates under a restrictive legal framework that limits traditional sportsbook operations. While gambling was legalized in the country through Special Law 766 in 2011, sports betting specifically remains heavily regulated with most independent bookmaking operations being illegal (1). The current legal structure only permits sportsbooks that are directly attached to licensed casinos, such as the sports bar at the Zona Pharaoh Casino in Managua, to accept wagers legally within Nicaragua.
The regulatory oversight of Nicaragua's gambling industry has evolved significantly since the initial legislation. Following the 2011 gambling act, the gaming board was initially established under the Ministry of Tourism through the Nicaraguan Tourism Institute (Intur), which had authority over licensing and regulation (1). However, in 2014, the government transferred control of all gambling activities to the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit, placing the industry under the Financial Analysis Unit and establishing a casino control council to more effectively regulate and generate revenue from gaming operations (2).
"In 2014, the industry experienced a significant regulatory shift when the government act of 2014 migrated the management of gambling activities to the ministry of finance."
Despite the restrictive approach to standalone sports betting operations, Nicaragua has developed a comprehensive regulatory framework for casino-based gambling that includes sports betting as an ancillary service. The legislation divided gaming establishments into four categories and implemented strict licensing requirements, including a $2,000 operating license fee valid for 20 years and monthly payments of $20 per machine and $100 per table game (1). While most independent Nicaraguan bookmakers remain underground illegal operations, players can legally access offshore sports betting sites, as the government makes no effort to block foreign gambling websites, creating opportunities for international operators to serve the Nicaraguan market (2).
Source:
https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2011/12/15/13166-first-casino-law-comes-into-force-in-nicaragua
https://undp.org.ni/nicaragua-and-regulations
Last updated: 24-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
