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Fiji, an archipelago country of about 330 islands in Melanesia, is a part of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean. This country of blue sea and sand beaches has one of the most developed economies in the Pacific. Fiji is described as a middle-income country with developing politics. And as everything is developing in Fiji, so is their gambling legal framework.
Gambling first became legal in Fiji with betting on Australian horse races. In 1968, the legalization was put on paper with the Gaming Act. Then, in 2009, the Gambling Act was passed, stating that all forms of gambling are prohibited, with some exceptions. Around this time, the Fijian government realized how much gambling could help their economy through tourism. And from then on, Fiji continued developing their gambling laws. In this article we will discuss how developed their gambling regulations actually are.
This article is updated on April 29th, 2026.
Does Fiji Have Its Own Gambling License?
Fiji does have its own gambling license. The licenses are issued to people who are at least 21 years old. The operators need to agree to certain criteria and pay license fees in order to start a gambling business.
There are 4 types of gambling licenses in Fiji:
Class I Gambling: Charitable gambling
It typically refers to the most basic or small-scale gambling activities that are used for fundraising purposes or community events. It is used by non-profit organizations, clubs, or community groups whose goal isn’t to gain profit from gambling but to raise money for a specific cause. Some activities that can be included in this class are raffles, bingo nights at community halls, lucky draws at fairs and other low-stakes games.
Class I gambling is less regulated than other classes, but it’s still required to own a license to ensure that the funds are used for the right cause. Applying for this kind of license is quite simple – the organization or individual needs to provide: details about the organization or event, the purpose of the gambling activity, an outline of the games that will be available, and the expected prize structure and distribution.
The activities of this class must be non-commercial, and the stakes must be low. There may also be limits on the total value of prizes, meaning they have to be modest and in accordance with the nature of the event. These events are also short-term.
All of this is well-regulated by the Fiji Gaming Commission.
Class II Gambling: Commercial land-based gambling
These are more heavy-duty than the Class I gambling. These are organized and commercial gambling activities, which are strictly regulated and involve higher stakes, but are not as big as casino ones. Clubs, hotels, and licensed operators organize these. This type of gambling is more interested in making profit and entertaining. Some examples of Class II gambling are bingo games, gaming machines, raffles and lotteries.
An organization or business must apply for a Class II Gambling License, and the process is more strict than for Class I. Applicants have to provide detailed information about the nature of gambling, the location, the financial details of the operation, and implement anti-money laundering measures.
Class III Gambling: Large-scale Commercial Gambling (Casinos)
These establishments focus on being fully commercial and designed for immense profit making, including high stakes and large prizes. Casinos and large-scale, commercially operated gaming venues fall under this category.
A Class III Gambling License is a must when someone wants to operate a casino. The application process is rigorous and includes: detailed business plans, proof of financial stability, compliance with strict security, implementation of anti-money laundering measures, and responsible gambling policies.
Prizes are high-value and gambling is high-stake.
Separate licensing structure: Special permits for state-regulated lotteries and sports betting platforms and shops.
Who Oversees Gambling Regulations in Fiji?
Fiji does not have a specific regulatory body that oversees the gambling regulations. Gaming in Fiji is regulated by the Gaming Decree, the Gambling Act 2009, and by the president of Fiji. These legislations govern all forms of gambling in Fiji, including casinos, lotteries, and other kinds of gambling.
An Overview of Fiji’s Gambling Laws
Gambling in Fiji works under the country’s Gambling Act of 2009. This law states that all forms of gambling are illegal, unless otherwise stated. The Act allows:
- Social Gambling: Lottery games, and games of chance, under the condition that the total prize does not exceed $100.
- Lotteries: Providing that operator obtained an official license in order to operate.
- Remote Gambling: Permitted only if done via telephone, radio, or television.
From that, it is obvious that online gambling is strictly off limits, but operators still find ways to make online gambling possible in the country, due to the fact that laws apply specifically to Fijian businesses and not to the overseas operators.
Gambling taxes also fall under the gambling laws in Fiji. Gambling taxes are regulated by the Gambling Turnover Tax Decree. The operator must pay 15% of the gross proceeds (consideration paid by the player) within 7 days of the drawing date. This is in addition to the normal corporate tax, which for the 2025-2026 fiscal year remains at 25% for companies.
The Gambling Act states that there are very severe penalties for those who run a gambling business without a license. Players are also subject to fines of $5,000 or up to 2 years of prison if they engage in illegal gambling.
Final thoughts
Gambling is actually legal in Fiji, to a certain extent. Some kinds of gambling are prohibited, and others are controlled under the law. Still, there are many gambling business opportunities for those willing to obey the Fiji law.
Read the full iGaming market research in Fiji.
