Live casinos that are licensed in Isle of Man

Is gambling in Isle of Man legal?

In 2005, the operator income tax rate was decreased to zero, just one of the many changes designed to address the issue. It has made quite a difference, as have the strict and definitive regulations. These moves created a favorable gambling jurisdiction for online casinos and a low-risk environment for gamblers.

What is the regulating organization in Isle of Man jurisdiction?

This island is considered a British Crown Dependency but is not considered a part of the UK and it has its own government. The Online Gambling Regulation Act of 2001 and Gambling Amendment Act of 2006 established that the Gambling Supervision Commission of the country regulates online betting operators. Several 2007 Regulation Ordinances have been published to maintain the timeliness of legislation. The road to get the Commission established was rather rocky but since it has been operational, things have run smoothly.

What are the laws and legal system pertaining to Isle of Man gambling?

Companies registered on the Isle of Man are banned from promoting their gambling sites, including online casinos, to their own citizens. This eliminates social issues or problems stemming from online gambling, such as online gambling addictions. At the same times, the country can generate additional income through fees and taxes. Online gaming operations must have insurance coverage for all player bets. Operators can make changes without needing government approval.

Any games offered must be independently tested by a Gambling Supervision Commission-approved external testing facility. Operators are not permitted to advertise in regions where online gambling is not yet regulated. As of 2010, non-gaming operations are permitted to be based on the island. This includes customer support, administration, and marketing functions, among others.

What are the licensing requirements for a website to use Isle of Man as its base of operations?

Online gaming companies must request an application from the Gambling Supervision Commission, which makes licensing approval decisions. The license application fee is £1,000 and the license renewal fee is £35,000 per year. There is also a 1.5 percent tax on gross gaming yields up to £20,000,000. For amounts higher than this, the tax rate is reduced. In 2004, the licensing fee was reduced to its current rate, removing barriers to electronic gaming.

Gambling sites based on the island are permitted to advertise within the UK. Licensee advertising and marketing activities are subjected to ongoing review by the Gambling Supervision Commission. The Commission also continuously monitors all policies in terms of underage gambling and player protection.

Is there any customer dispute legislation for Isle of Man gambling?

After the e-gaming crash, requirements were relaxed in order to attract new operators, a move that proved to not be in the best interest of gamblers. In recent years, the standards have become more stringent. Due to this and the creating of the Gambling Supervision Commission, there is not much risk in making deposits at an online gaming operation based on Isle of Man. However, legislation dictates that the Gambling Service Commission get involved in disputes, when required.

Who do I contact if I have a problem with a casino in this jurisdiction?

If consumers have a problem with an online gambling operator licensed on Isle of Man, they should first contact the operator. If the operator response does not prove satisfactory and all other avenues with the operator have been explored, they can complete a Gambling Supervision Commission complaint form. The form can be emailed to the Commission at gaming@gov.im.

The Commission will investigate the claim on the behalf of the filer. An investigation is based on information received from a player, with supporting documentation. The Commission contacts the operator’s designated official and requests a response and information. The outcome of any investigation is determined by the facts and evidence presented.

The Commission does not have the power to require an operator to return money that has been fairly lost. However, actual winnings and deposits that have not been wagered are legally enforceable. Operators are also required to abide by any decisions made by the Independent Betting Adjudication Service (IBAS), an impartial adjudicator for disputes between customers and gambling operators.

What should I look for in a gambling website operating out of Isle of Man?

As of 2009, there were 16 operators holding Isle of Man licenses, representing a total of 26 online gambling websites. Consumers should make sure that the company running the gambling website has a current license. They should also ensure that it has the insurance bond, designed to cover their wagers.