Polymarket in Pakistan
Restricted: not geoblocked and not blocked, but gambling is illegal and the PTA blocks gambling sites.
| Polymarket status | Not geoblocked by Polymarket |
|---|---|
| National position | Restricted |
| Regulator | Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA); Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA); State Bank of Pakistan |
| Last reviewed | 23 October 2026 |
The legal situation in Pakistan
Pakistan is not geoblocked by Polymarket, and the PTA has not been reported to block it. Gambling is banned under the Prevention of Gambling Act 1977, and the PTA had blocked 184 gambling websites and apps by August 2025. Crypto is moving toward regulation: PVARA was set up in July 2025, the Virtual Assets Act 2026 was signed on 7 March 2026, and the State Bank lifted its 2018 bank ban for licensed providers on 14 April 2026.
Key facts
- The Prevention of Gambling Act 1977 prohibits gambling.
- Aug 2025: the PTA reported 184 gambling websites and apps blocked.
- 7 Mar 2026: the Virtual Assets Act 2026 was signed, formalising PVARA licensing.
- 14 Apr 2026: SBP BPRD Circular Letter No. 10 let banks serve licensed virtual asset providers.
What are your options in Pakistan?
If Polymarket or local law restricts this country, the honest answer is: don't try to get around it. VPNs and third-party wallets break Polymarket's terms, can get funds frozen and may be illegal locally. Look for prediction markets or exchanges licensed by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA); Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA); State Bank of Pakistan, and check back here: rules change.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polymarket legal in Pakistan?
Restricted: not geoblocked and not blocked, but gambling is illegal and the PTA blocks gambling sites.
Can I use a VPN for Polymarket in Pakistan?
No. Using a VPN to reach Polymarket from a restricted location breaks its terms of service and can lead to frozen accounts. It may also break local law.