Belarus has banned fund transfers to offshore online casinos. Banks and payment providers must block transactions to operators without a Belarusian licence.
Unlike Russia, Belarus permits both online and land-based casinos within its borders. The crackdown follows complaints about gambling advertising and a rise in related crime, according to local outlet Mst Life. Minsk says the measures aim to increase transparency and protect players.
Licensed operators now face stricter verification. Online platforms must implement enhanced KYC: players either complete video identification via smartphone camera or visit the operator's office in person. Duplicate accounts are banned, as are payments from third-party cards or wallets. Withdrawals are only permitted after a player has wagered at least 70% of their deposit, a move designed to stop casino accounts being used as unregistered e-wallets.
Crypto casinos are blocked, except for residents of the High-Tech Park, a Minsk special economic zone for blockchain firms that offers tax relief and visa benefits.
Land-based venues must now verify ID twice: at entry and at terminal transactions. Operators are required to block access for players facing financial difficulties and to secure confirmation that rules have been read before the first wager. In disputes, casinos must offer settlement mechanisms or refer cases to court. Complaints to the tax service are accepted only when there is suspicion of a breach of the operator's own rules or the law.
