Illegal Gambling

Only casinos with a license are allowed to operate gambling services. Taking part in illegally organized gambling (online or real) is not a criminal offence. However, the stake, profits and gambling equipment can be confiscated.

It is forbidden to:

• Provide gambling machines.
• Provide gambling equipment or run a casino.
• Operate online gambling without a license or provide a direct link via a website to online gambling (online casino).

Machines for games requiring skill or dexterity are not prohibited. However, before they are installed the Federal Gaming Board (ESBK) must approve them.

In Switzerland only lottery tickets sold by Swisslos or Loterie Romande are allowed. All other lottery tickets, betting, etc. where you gamble for money are prohibited.

Small poker games outside of casinos can be approved by the intercantonal Lottery and Competition Commission (Comlot). This rule applies to commercial gambling. Poker games that are not commercial and played within the family or among friends are allowed without a permission.

Gambling machines that allow you to win money or chips instead of money may only be operated with a license. Gaming machines operating games of skill also need to be tested by the Federal Gaming Board (ESBK).

Gaming machines that are just for enjoyment and that do not pay out money are classified as entertainment devices. These include table football, pinball games, and driving, shooting and sport simulators.