Polymarket in Sri Lanka
Restricted: not blocked so far, but unlicensed online gambling is an offence and ISP blocking is active.
| Polymarket status | Not geoblocked by Polymarket |
|---|---|
| National position | Restricted |
| Regulator | Gambling Regulatory Authority (Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025); TRCSL |
| Last reviewed | 23 October 2026 |
The legal situation in Sri Lanka
Polymarket does not geoblock Sri Lanka, and no Sri Lankan action naming Polymarket was found. The Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025, certified in September 2025 and in operation from 1 December 2025, requires a licence to offer online gambling. In August 2026 the TRCSL ordered ISPs to block 122 unlicensed gambling sites at the Authority's request. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka says crypto is not legal tender and may not be used for payments.
Key facts
- The Gambling Regulatory Authority Act No. 17 of 2025 replaced the Gaming Ordinance and Casino Business Act 2010.
- Sections 15-18 and 44 require a licence for online gambling and make unlicensed operation an offence.
- Aug 2026: the TRCSL ordered ISPs to block 122 unlicensed online gambling sites; Polymarket was not reported among them.
- 24 Sep 2025: CBSL Governor Weerasinghe said crypto is not legal tender or a permitted payment method.
What are your options in Sri Lanka?
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 Gambling Regulatory Authority (Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025); TRCSL, 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 Sri Lanka?
Restricted: not blocked so far, but unlicensed online gambling is an offence and ISP blocking is active.
Can I use a VPN for Polymarket in Sri Lanka?
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.