Serbia Jurisdiction profile

Located in south-eastern Europe, Serbia is a country where gambling is legalized and regulated locally. Players can access games at 18 or older, with legislation enacted in 2017 to set up the industry. Since then, players have had access to lottery gaming, sports betting, casinos, poker, and online gambling. The government is currently working on shutting down the black market, ensuring that all online gambling services are secure and regulated. The history of the gambling industry in the country is quite long. After World War II, the country used the industry to build its economy and tourism industry. The first law for gambling in the country was passed in the 1960s, and gambling was divided into special and classic games among land-based casinos. It wasn't until the early 2000s that the government introduced legislation to revamp the industry. With the changes, the country started a monopoly regarding casino operations. By 2004, several gambling options were added via legislation, including classic gambling options, specialty games like roulette and craps, and online games. By 2012, additional changes were made to the gambling industry in Serbia to introduce new regulations. At that time, the government lost its monopoly on online casino games. With the decision, the country could open its online gambling market to international operators with appropriate licensing. This allowed players to have access to more gaming options than ever before. With the introduction of this legislation, the government also started fighting against black market operators. Within just a few months of enacting the legislation, dozens of web portals were stopped from offering services. Big names were apparently cut out of the country due to noncompliance with licensing requirements. While unlicensed operators cannot offer services in Serbia, online casino sites still reach out to residents in the country. Players should be advised to read through reviews of any operator they consider creating an account with. Find sites that have solid reviews by other players. Look for licensed sites that offer quality services, including safe and secure banking methods and fair gaming options. Currently, the Serbian gambling industry is controlled by several departments. The Gambling Management (Random Gaming Administration, GCA) is in charge of the licensing process. The group reviews applications and approves operators for licensing in the country. The GCA is also in charge of monitoring the activities of casinos and online gambling portals. The board works hard to ensure that all licensed operators function correctly. Every provider needs to follow local rules and regulations. The Tax Department of the Ministry of Finance is also involved in the industry. The group works to review companies' compliance regarding legal requirements and auditing the industry's financial side. Fees and taxes must be paid on time, and the department makes sure such payments are made promptly. The Ministry of Defense is also involved, surprisingly. The group works to examine gaming equipment and software offered by certified laboratories within the department and affiliated entities.