Is Online Gambling Legal in Sri Lanka?

Last verified: 16 Oct 2026

Quick answer

Not in practice. The 2025 Act allows for licensed digital gambling, but no online casino operator is registered with the Inland Revenue Department and the regulations are still pending (status as of 16 Oct 2026). The telecoms regulator has ordered unlicensed sites blocked.

Legal status

The Gambling Regulatory Authority Act No. 17 of 2025 defines digital gambling broadly (interactive gaming, internet gaming and any electronic form) and covers it in section 18. The law therefore allows for licensed online gaming, but the supplementary regulations that would let the GRA issue digital licences were still under expert review in mid-2026.

An Inland Revenue Department Deputy Commissioner told the press that, as far as the department’s records show, no online casino operators have been registered. That means no site offering online casino games to people in Sri Lanka holds a Sri Lankan licence today (not yet confirmed after the regulations are published).

Blocking

The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) instructed providers to block 24 unlicensed gambling sites, described as one of the first major enforcement actions under the new framework. In August 2026 trade press reported a further order to block 122 betting sites. Dates and lists: not yet confirmed against the TRCSL notices.

Risks of apps and APKs

Unlicensed apps give you no legal protection if a payout is refused. APK files from outside an official store can contain malware. Sites that ask for card details or a deposit by bank transfer put your money at risk. We do not link to any online casino or betting operator.

What to do instead

Visit a licensed Colombo casino: see the casino list.
Read the law explainer.
If gambling is a problem, see responsible gambling.

Informational only, not legal advice.

Frequently asked questions

Can I play online casino in Sri Lanka?

Not with a licensed operator. An Inland Revenue official said no online casino operators have been registered, so any site you can reach is unlicensed.

Are casino apps and APK downloads safe?

We do not recommend them. They are unlicensed here, give you no legal protection if a payout is refused, and APK files from outside an official store can carry malware.

Has Sri Lanka blocked gambling sites?

Yes. The TRCSL told providers to block 24 unlicensed gambling sites, and trade press reported 122 betting sites ordered blocked in August 2026.

Sources

Alston Antony, Founder & Editor, Sri Lankan local. Part of Gambling Law in Sri Lanka.