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Foreigners gambling in Vietnam may face administrative penalties, deportation, or even criminal prosecution depending on the severity of the violation. But is the line between “playing for fun” and “breaking the law” really clear? What should foreign individuals and businesses be aware of to avoid legal risks?
Vietnam has very strict regulations on gambling activities. In practice, however, many foreigners mistakenly believe that as long as they do not organize gambling activities or place large bets, they will not face legal consequences. This misconception is often the starting point of serious legal risks.
Under Vietnamese law, illegal gambling is strictly prohibited, regardless of whether the offender is a Vietnamese citizen or a foreigner gambling in Vietnam.
Common forms of gambling that are likely to violate the law include:
Playing cards for money in private homes or rented apartments
Football betting or online sports betting
Playing casino games without meeting legal conditions
Organizing prize-based games involving cash or valuable items
It is important to note that as long as there is a win–lose element involving money or property, the activity may be considered illegal gambling, even if the value is small.
The answer is no. Vietnamese law applies the principle of equality before the law. Therefore, foreigners gambling in Vietnam are subject to the same treatment as Vietnamese citizens and may even face additional immigration-related consequences.
Many foreigners believe that:
They are only playing with friends
They are not organizing gambling or collecting commissions
They are playing in a private space
However, these reasons do not exempt them from legal liability. Once inspected, violators may still be penalized.
Depending on the nature, severity, and value of the gambling activity, foreigners gambling in Vietnam may face different levels of penalties, ranging from minor to very serious.
If the gambling act does not constitute a criminal offense, the violator may be subject to administrative penalties, including:
Monetary fines under Vietnamese law
Confiscation of gambling-related items and means
Mandatory termination of the violation
For foreigners, in addition to fines, authorities may also apply:
Deportation from Vietnam
Temporary or permanent bans on re-entry
This poses significant risks, especially for those who:
Work for FDI enterprises
Invest or contribute capital to businesses
Hold management or executive positions in Vietnam
If the gambling activity involves large sums, repeat offenses, or organized elements, foreigners gambling in Vietnam may be subject to criminal prosecution.
Common situations leading to criminal liability include:
Gambling amounts exceeding legal thresholds
Participation in organized betting or gambling rings
Use of technology or the internet for cross-border gambling
The consequences go beyond criminal penalties and may directly affect:
Criminal records
Eligibility for visas and work permits
Personal reputation and related business credibility
Many cases show that violations are often unintentional, but a lack of legal understanding leads to serious consequences. Preventing legal risks from the outset is essential.
Foreign clients unfamiliar with Vietnamese law often hold misconceptions such as:
All casinos in Vietnam are open to foreigners
Online gambling on foreign platforms is not subject to Vietnamese law
Small-scale gambling will not be penalized
In reality, as long as the act occurs within Vietnamese territory, Vietnamese law has full jurisdiction, regardless of the platform or nationality.
For foreign individuals and enterprises, regular legal consultation is the most effective way to:
Correctly understand Vietnamese laws and regulations
Identify potential risks in daily life and business operations
Avoid unintentional legal violations
DEDICA Law currently supports many FDI enterprises through its outsourced legal department model, helping foreign managers work and live in Vietnam with peace of mind.
Are you concerned about legal risks related to foreigners gambling in Vietnam?
Do you need tailored legal advice for yourself or your business?
Contact DEDICA Law today for strategic, confidential, and effective legal consultation from the very beginning.
📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012 (WhatsApp, WeChat & Zalo available)
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