Under Algerian law, all forms of gambling—including sports betting—are strictly prohibited and unlicensed operations carry criminal penalties. There is no legal framework for licensed sportsbooks, and individuals or entities offering or participating in such activities face fines and imprisonment (1).
The primary legal basis for this prohibition is Order No. 75-58 of 1975, as codified in Article 612 of the Civil Code, which outlaws games of chance. In 2018, Law 18-05 further extended the ban to online platforms, ensuring that no digital or cross-border sportsbook may legally operate within Algerian jurisdiction (1).
"Gambling is prohibited in Algeria by decision No. 75-58 of 1975 of the Civil Code. The ban extends to online gambling, according to Law 18-05 of 2018, which explicitly prohibits all forms of internet-based wagering and imposes sanctions on operators and participants." (1)
Despite the clear statutory ban, a 2024 FATF follow-up report noted challenges in enforcement, particularly against clandestine online operators. The Algerian authorities have since pledged enhanced coordination among financial intelligence units and law enforcement to detect illicit betting networks and apply dissuasive sanctions (2).
Source:
https://www.fatf-gafi.org/content/dam/fatf-gafi/fsrb-mer/MENAFATF-MER-Algeria-2023.pdf
https://www.fatf-gafi.org/content/dam/fatf-gafi/fsrb-fur/Algeria-FUR-MENAFATF-May-2024.pdf
Last updated: 22-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
