Sports betting in Timor-Leste operates within a unique regulatory framework that combines traditional gambling authorization with emerging offshore licensing opportunities. The country's Decree-Law No. 6/2009 establishes the legal foundation for recreational and social gambling activities, including traditional games and lottery operations (1). This legislation primarily focuses on land-based gambling activities such as lotteries, cockfighting, and traditional fair games, but does not explicitly address modern sports betting or online gambling platforms. The regulatory environment remains in transition as the government develops more comprehensive frameworks for digital gambling operations.
Timor-Leste has recently positioned itself as an emerging jurisdiction for offshore gambling licensing, specifically targeting international operators rather than domestic consumers (2). The government has established export-oriented gambling licenses that permit various forms of online gambling including sports betting, casino games, and lottery operations. However, these offshore licenses come with strict restrictions that prohibit Timor-Leste residents from accessing gambling services offered under these licenses, creating a clear separation between international operations and domestic regulation.
"All forms of online gambling offered under these licenses—including casino games, sports betting, lottery, bingo, and poker—are prohibited for Timor-Leste residents. Operators must block access from Timor-Leste IP addresses."
The current legal landscape for sports betting remains somewhat ambiguous for domestic operators and consumers in Timor-Leste (1). While the 2009 decree law provides a framework for certain gambling activities, it does not specifically prohibit sports betting nor does it establish clear licensing procedures for such operations. The government's focus on developing offshore licensing suggests a strategic approach to capture international gambling revenue while maintaining domestic restrictions. Citizens seeking to engage in sports betting face limited legal options, as the existing regulatory framework does not provide clear pathways for authorized domestic sports betting operations, leaving most activity in an unregulated space.
Source:
https://mj.gov.tl/jornal/lawsTL/RDTL-Law/RDTL-Decree-Laws/DECREE%20LAW%206-2009.pdf
https://legalpilot.com/country/timor-leste/
Last updated: 15-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
