Interest in Betfair is growing worldwide, but knowing where you can (and can’t) use it is crucial.
Online gambling laws differ wildly, and what’s legal in one country might land you in trouble in another.
So in this guide, I’ll explain:
- Which countries Betfair operates in
- Where it’s restricted and why
- Tips for finding alternatives if you’re in a restricted area
Let’s dive in and clear up the confusion…
Restricted Countries and Alternatives:
Betfair is a giant in the betting world, but its availability isn’t universal. Whether it’s due to licensing issues, government restrictions, or outright bans, Betfair doesn’t operate everywhere. Some countries take a hardline stance against online gambling, while others have local laws that clash with Betfair’s global licensing model.
Take Canada, China, and France—these are all examples of countries where Betfair’s services are blocked. On the other hand, regions like Iran, Iraq, and North Korea ban online betting entirely. Even if you wanted to place a wager, local laws make it impossible.
If you’re in a restricted area, all hope isn’t lost. There are alternatives via brokers like BetinAsia might cater to your region. Just make sure to check their legal status where you live—playing it safe is always smarter than risking penalties.
Just use a VPN? Sure, they sound tempting, but using one to access Betfair is against the platform’s rules and could get your account suspended.
It’s frustrating, sure. But these restrictions are usually about compliance with local laws and ensuring player protection. If you’re in a restricted country, explore the options legally available to you instead of trying to bypass the system.
Countries Where Betfair Is Legal in 2025
Betfair is a global powerhouse in online betting, but its availability depends heavily on where you are. Some regions fully embrace platforms like Betfair, while others have stricter rules around online gambling.
As of 2025, Betfair operates legally in many countries, including the UK, Ireland, Australia, and Sweden. These nations have well-established frameworks for regulating online betting, making them ideal markets for a platform like Betfair. Other countries where Betfair is fully operational include Germany, Brazil, the UAE, and New Zealand.
Betfair’s flexibility in allowing transactions in multiple currencies, like GBP, EUR, USD, and AUD, further highlights its appeal to international users. That said, laws can change quickly. Always double-check Betfair’s terms and local regulations before placing bets, especially if you’re travelling.
Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just getting started, knowing where Betfair operates legally is key to making the most of its platform.
List of the countries where Betfair is legal in 2025:
- Armenia
- Australia
- Austria
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Bulgaria
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Egypt
- Estonia
- Finland
- Georgia
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Guatemala
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macau
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mexico
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Panama
- Peru
- Philippines
- Poland
- Romania
- Russia
- Saudi Arabia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
*Keep in mind that legal access to Betfair can be subject to change based on shifting gambling laws and regulations.
Understanding Betfair’s Global Reach
What makes Betfair such a major player in the betting world? It’s all about adaptability. Betfair has successfully navigated the complex web of global gambling regulations to establish itself as a leader in the industry.
The platform is licensed by both the British Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority, ensuring it adheres to strict standards of fairness and security. These licenses allow Betfair to operate in numerous countries across Europe, Oceania, and beyond.
Interestingly, Betfair’s approach isn’t just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about creating a seamless experience for users. For instance, the platform offers region-specific bonuses and promotions tailored to local markets. Whether you’re betting in the UK or exploring opportunities in Brazil, Betfair strives to deliver a localized experience that feels natural and intuitive.
Of course, not all countries are so welcoming. Markets like Canada, France, and Turkey have restrictive policies that make it impossible for Betfair to gain a foothold. But despite these challenges, Betfair remains a favourite among millions of users worldwide, thanks to its innovation, reliability, and user-focused approach.
Related: How Betfair Expert Fee Works: Calculations Explained and Simplified