Polymarket in Zambia
Accessible: not blocked, though bank payments to unregistered crypto providers are barred.
| Polymarket status | Not geoblocked by Polymarket |
|---|---|
| National position | Grey area: no specific rule |
| Regulator | Betting Control and Licensing Board (Betting Control Act, Cap. 166); Bank of Zambia |
| Last reviewed | 23 October 2026 |
The legal situation in Zambia
Polymarket does not geoblock Zambia, and no Zambian action against Polymarket was found. Betting is licensed under the Betting Control Act (Cap. 166, amended by Act No. 50 of 2021), but online gambling is not a separately regulated activity. In March 2026 the Bank of Zambia required all virtual-asset service providers serving Zambia, including non-resident ones, to register by 27 March. From 30 March 2026, regulated banks may not process transactions with unregistered providers.
Key facts
- Betting Control Act Cap. 166, amended by Act No. 50 of 2021; the Lotteries Act and Gaming Machines (Prohibition) Act 1994 also apply.
- Online gambling has no dedicated licensing regime.
- 16 Mar 2026: the Bank of Zambia ordered VASPs, resident or not, to register by 27 Mar 2026.
- From 30 Mar 2026, BoZ-regulated institutions may not process payments to unregistered VASPs.
Getting started in Zambia
Polymarket does not geoblock this country, but that is not the same as a local licence. Check the national position above, then follow our guides to sign up, deposit and place a trade. Profits may be taxable locally; keep records of every trade.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Ready to try it? Check it is available where you live, then open Polymarket.
Open PolymarketFrequently asked questions
Is Polymarket legal in Zambia?
Accessible: not blocked, though bank payments to unregistered crypto providers are barred.
Can I use a VPN for Polymarket in Zambia?
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.