Online bingo in Switzerland is legal and regulated by the Swiss Gambling Supervisory Authority (Gespa), which oversees automated and intercantonal bingo operations alongside lotteries and sports betting (1). The Federal Act on Money Games, implemented on January 1, 2019, established the legal framework for all online gambling including bingo, requiring operators to obtain Swiss licenses (2). Small bingo games that are neither automated nor intercantonal fall under cantonal authority regulation (1). The Swiss Federal Gaming Board (SFGB) regulates land-based casinos that have ventured into online business, while Comlot, now reorganized as Gespa, ensures fairness and transparency in lotteries, sports betting, and bingo establishments (2).
Switzerland maintains strict licensing requirements limiting online gambling to operators linked with licensed land-based establishments or holding specific large-scale game permits (2). Currently, lotteries and sports betting including bingo are legally operated only by two existing licensed Swiss operators, Swisslos and Loterie Romande, with no additional licenses available to private operators (1). The law blocks access to unlicensed foreign gambling websites through internet service providers, ensuring Swiss residents engage only with legal, regulated platforms (2). All licensed operators must implement responsible gambling measures including deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and access to counseling services for gambling-related harm (2).
"Comlot regulates lotteries, sports bets, and minor gaming houses, such as bingo establishments. It ensures fairness and transparency in the conduct of such activities and coordinates well with authorities from the cantons."
The Swiss Federal Supreme Court approved network blocking against foreign providers of online gambling in decisions dated May 18, 2022, rejecting appeals from blocked operators (1). The court found that prohibition of unlicensed foreign online games was justified since Swiss authorities lacked supervisory power over such providers to ensure addiction protection, money laundering prevention, and safe game execution (1). Operators failing to meet legal standards face fines, license suspension, or revocation, with severe penalties imposed on those running illegal gambling operations (2). The Swiss government emphasizes that gambling profits remain within the country while providing players with safe and regulated gaming environments (2).
Source:
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/switzerland
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-switzerland/
Last updated: 28-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
