Uganda & the Law (Poker, Casinos & Online Play)

This page explains the basic rules for playing poker and other gaming in Uganda: legal age, what is allowed, online play, and how to stay safe. Easy English. Not legal advice.

Minimum age

25+ for betting, casinos and bingo in Uganda. The national lottery is typically 18+. Always check the latest rules. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Regulator

The National Lotteries & Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB)

Online play

Online betting/casino is allowed with NLGRB-licensed operators. Avoid unlicensed sites; the regulator issues public warnings about illegal websites. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Is poker legal in Uganda?

Yes—poker in licensed casinos or clubs is legal, under the Lotteries and Gaming Act (2016) and NLGRB oversight. What is not legal is running or promoting games without a licence, or letting under-age people play. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Tip: If it is a commercial game (rake, entry fee, prize promos), the venue/operator must be licensed. When in doubt, ask to see the licence on site or check with NLGRB.

Minimum legal age

  • 25+ for betting, casinos and bingo (ID required). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  • 18+ for the national lottery. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Enforcement is strict. Venues and websites should check your age during registration or at the door.

Online play (what’s allowed)

Uganda allows online betting and casino games when the operator has a valid NLGRB licence and follows local rules (age checks, responsible gaming, tax & data obligations). Playing on unlicensed sites can put your money and privacy at risk, and the Board has issued warnings about illegal sites. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

How to check if a site is licensed

  1. Look for an NLGRB licence number on the site’s footer or “About/Legal” page. (Avoid sites claiming a fake “Gaming Commission of Uganda”.) :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  2. Search the NLGRB website or contact them to confirm the licence. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
  3. Check that the site blocks under-25 users and asks for ID (KYC). :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Taxes (simple overview)

Uganda regularly updates the tax framework for gaming. Operators pay sector taxes, and rules about withholding tax on winnings have changed in recent years. Because rates and collection methods can change, always check your operator’s current terms and the latest guidance from URA/NLGRB. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

We don’t give tax advice. Ask your operator how taxes are handled on payouts, and speak to a tax professional for personal guidance.

Player protection & safe play

  • Play only on licensed sites/venues (look for NLGRB details). :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
  • Set time and money limits. Use self-exclusion or deposit limits where available. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
  • Never share your account or play for someone under 25.
  • Be wary of sites promising “guaranteed wins” or asking you to deposit via unknown wallets. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

If you need help, contact NLGRB for responsible gaming resources. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Your rights & responsibilities

Your rights

  • To play only if you are 25+ (or 18+ for lottery).
  • To see or verify a venue’s or website’s licence.
  • To clear terms about deposits, bonuses, and withdrawals.

Your responsibilities

  • Provide accurate ID/KYC and follow venue rules.
  • Use licensed operators only.
  • Play responsibly and respect cooling-off or self-exclusion rules.

FAQ: Uganda & gaming law

Can tourists play in Uganda?

Yes, if you are 25+ and the venue/operator is licensed. Bring a passport for ID. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Is home poker legal?

Private social games without a “house take” are usually treated differently from commercial games, but Uganda strictly regulates organised gaming. If a game is advertised, charges an entry/rake, or offers cash prizes, a licence is generally required. When in doubt, ask NLGRB. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Are suits (♠ ♥ ♦ ♣) ranked by law?

No. Hand comparisons follow standard poker rules; suits are not ranked in normal poker games.

Can I use offshore websites with a VPN?

Uganda licenses and supervises local operators. Using unlicensed sites risks losing funds and personal data, and the Board has publicly warned about illegal sites. Stick to licensed operators. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

What’s the regulator’s name? I saw “Gaming Commission of Uganda”.

The regulator is the National Lotteries & Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB). Beware sites claiming licences from non-existent bodies (e.g., “Gaming Commission of Uganda”). :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

What about taxes on my winnings?

Tax rules have changed. Operators pay sector taxes; rules on withholding from player winnings have been revised in recent years. Check your operator’s current policy and URA/NLGRB guidance for the latest position. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Official sources & useful links

  • Lotteries & Gaming Act, 2016 (full text). :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
  • National Lotteries & Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) — licences, notices, responsible gaming. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
  • Regulator advisories (example: warning against unlicensed “WINGO” site). :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
  • News & analysis on legal age/responsible gaming in Uganda. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

We try to keep this page accurate, but laws and taxes change. This is not legal or tax advice. Always confirm with NLGRB, your operator and a qualified advisor before you play.