The decree, signed by president Lukashenko on August 7, allows gambling operations to be conducted on the Internet by licensed establishments. For the first time in the history of the small Eastern European country, online casinos will be able to legally offer their services to Belorussian citizens. The document includes various licensing specifics and new taxation laws that would require gambling operators, whether online casinos or land-based gaming parlors, to meet strict criteria.
The first change set by the legislation includes increasing the minimum gambling age from 18 to 21. This applies to both virtual and brick-and-mortar casinos and aims at minimizing the negative effects and potential threats of gambling. Parlors are required to install video surveillance systems, while visitors in these establishments will no longer be allowed to lend money to other people who want to gamble.
Organizers of online gambling operations will have to make a guarantee deposit of no exact amount that would cover payouts of customer winnings, taxes, and other payments in case of insolvency. All users who register accounts and play for real money at Internet-based casinos will undergo identity checks. Interestingly, tax authorities will have to receive a remote access to online casinos, although it is not clear what exactly this access would include. In addition, all casinos will have to join a special payments network where all money flows will be monitored by the authorities.
Source: GMB / Casino News Daily
