Isle of Man Internet gambling legislation

Although a British dependency, the Isle of Man is not within the jurisdiction of the UK nor does it form part of the UK. With the oldest established legislature in the world, the Tynwald, the Isle of Man is self governing and not bound by the laws of the UK. The independence of the Isle of Man in respect of its laws offers advantages to local residents, individuals and companies from overseas.

Isle of Man is a reputable offshore jurisdiction that has always been encouraging the development of Internet gambling since the introduction of Isle’s of Man Internet gambling laws specifically designed to benefit gambling and e-gaming firms and fully protect customers in 2001. The benefits include a zero rate of tax for many companies. The Manx Government does not levy capital gains tax, inheritance tax or wealth tax.

In addition, it has been revealed in research by Hemscott that the Isle of Man is the jurisdiction most preferred by non-UK companies wishing to incorporate when listing on London’s Alternative Investment Market. This reported that there is more than twice the number of Isle of Man companies than Bermuda or Canada. The Island’s standing has been further reinforced by the awarding of an “AAA” accreditation making the Isle of Man an ideal offshore centre for all your corporate and personal needs.

In 2001, the Isle of Man Government was one of the first jurisdictions in the world to introduce legislation specifically designed to benefit gambling and e-gaming firms and fully protect customers. Following further recent changes, the licensing and regulatory controls are now more responsive to the needs of the gambling and e-gaming industries.

The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) was founded in 1962 and is fully independent and committed to player protection.

The GSC is available to provide guidance on the process and discussion regarding the ORGA rules at every stage of the application process. Moreover, the Department of Economic Development is authorized to manage and support Internet gambling business issues in Isle of Man. The GSC will not provide legal advice to the applicants. If legal advice is required, the Commission recommends that it should be sought privately. Legal advice on the legitimacy of an operator’s activity is not examined by the Inspectorate or the Commission, but it is expected that legal status in respect of both local and global operations will have been obtained to the prospective licensee’s satisfaction prior to getting involved in operations.

There is also a number of online gambling regulations introduced by the Gambling Supervision Commission in order to apply for an online gambling license in the Isle of Man. The first document to study on the topic is the Online Gambling Regulation Act 2001 (OGRA) that covers all games connected with telecommunication, betting money, randomness and chance games.

For more information on obtaining an online gambling licence, Isle of Man regulations and sample Application forms, visit Gambling Supervision Commision.

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