Online casinos are legal in Montenegro under a regulated framework that has been in place since 2011. The country's gambling industry operates under the Law on Games of Chance, which was originally enacted in 2004 and has undergone multiple amendments, with the most recent changes taking effect in January 2024 (1). The primary regulatory authority for the gambling industry in Montenegro is the Games of Chance Administration, which operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance and is responsible for issuing licenses and enforcing regulations for both land-based and online gaming operations (2).
Montenegro permits both land-based and online gambling activities, with the government maintaining strict control over the licensing process. To operate an online casino in Montenegro, operators must first obtain a land-based gambling license, as this is a prerequisite for acquiring an online gambling permit (1). The total number of physical casinos in the country is currently limited to eight, and licenses are obtained through open tenders announced by the government, with each license valid for ten years.
"The aim of the amendments, as stated by the competent authorities, is to ensure a sustainable regulatory system for organising games of chance via the internet or other telecommunication means, as well as to generate additional revenue from these activities."
Recent legislative changes in 2024 have introduced new measures to strengthen Montenegro's gambling regulatory framework, including the establishment of variable concession fees for online games of chance and restrictions on participation in foreign gambling sites. However, some amendments have proven controversial, particularly Article 68f, which stipulates that payments for online gambling can only be made through specific methods such as payment cards or at physical gambling premises (1). This provision has faced significant opposition from industry participants and the general public, resulting in petitions and constitutional challenges that are currently being processed by Montenegrin authorities (1).
Source:
https://www.schoenherr.eu/content/montenegro-s-evolving-legal-landscape-recent-amendments-and-controversies-in-games-of-chance-regulation
https://practiceguides.chambers.com/practice-guides/gaming-law-2023/montenegro
Last updated: 26-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
