Sports betting is completely legal in Antigua and Barbuda under the nation's comprehensive gambling regulatory framework. The twin-island nation was one of the first jurisdictions to license interactive gaming and wagering companies in 1994, establishing itself as a pioneer in the online gambling industry (1). The regulatory structure is overseen by the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) through its Division of Gaming, which ensures all gaming activities operate within strict legal parameters.
The legal framework for sports betting is governed by the Interactive Gaming and Interactive Wagering Regulations (IGIWR), which specifically provides for Interactive Wagering Licenses designed for sports betting and wagering operations (1). All gaming companies are classified as Financial Institutions and must comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements and Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) standards. The regulatory regime focuses on three key areas: Money Laundering Prevention, Player Protection, and Industry Enhancement.
"Interactive Gaming and Interactive Wagering Regulations (IGIWR): This legislation, enforced by the FSRC, aims to promote ethical and responsible online gambling."
The Gambling Act of 2016 further strengthened the regulatory environment by establishing the Gambling Authority of Antigua and Barbuda as the main governing body and introducing stringent measures to curtail illegal gambling activities (2). Sports betting operators must obtain proper licensing, maintain adequate financial reserves to cover player winnings, and undergo regular external audits to certify their solvency and compliance. The jurisdiction's commitment to international best practices and tier-one regulatory standards makes sports betting a fully legitimate and well-regulated activity in Antigua and Barbuda.
Source:
https://www.fsrc.gov.ag/index.php/services/gaming
https://szilaghi.com/navigating-the-gambling-landscape-licenses-and-laws-in-antigua-and-barbuda
Last updated: 15-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
