In 2025, Mexico remains one of the most active countries in Latin America when it comes to legal gambling and casino operations. Unlike many other countries where gambling is heavily restricted or banned, Mexico allows various forms of betting under government regulation. Casinos are legally permitted, and the country has a well-established framework for both land-based and online gambling. This makes Mexico a major destination for both local and international players who are interested in legal gaming.
In this article, we will explain the latest gambling laws in Mexico, the types of gambling allowed, and present a list of the Top 20 Legal Casinos currently operating in the country in 2025.
Is Gambling Legal in Mexico in 2025?
Yes, gambling is legal in Mexico. The legal basis for gambling activities in Mexico comes from the “Federal Gaming and Raffles Law” (Ley Federal de Juegos y Sorteos), which was originally passed in 1947, with many modifications over the years to match modern needs. The law is enforced by the Secretariat of the Interior (SEGOB), which grants licenses, monitors compliance, and regulates casino activities.
Legally allowed forms of gambling in Mexico include:
- Land-based casinos
- Sports betting
- Raffles and lotteries
- Pari-mutuel betting (horse racing and greyhound racing)
- Slot machines and electronic games
- Online sports betting and casino games (through licensed operators)
Illegal gambling operations still exist in some areas, but the government is actively working to shut them down and promote licensed businesses.
Key Gambling Laws and Regulations in Mexico
The following are the most important rules regarding gambling in Mexico in 2025:
- Licensing: All gambling operators must have a license issued by SEGOB. The license must specify the type of gambling allowed, the location, and the maximum number of machines or tables.
- Age Limit: The legal age for gambling in Mexico is 18 years or older.
- Taxation: Casinos are subject to taxation on revenue, and customers may also have to pay taxes on large winnings. Taxes vary by state and activity type.
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML): Mexican gambling operators must follow AML guidelines and report any suspicious transactions to the authorities.
- Online Gambling: Online sports betting and online casinos are allowed, but only through Mexican-licensed platforms. International websites not licensed in Mexico are not officially permitted, though some still operate via offshore registrations.
- Foreign Investment: Foreign companies can invest in casinos, but must operate under Mexican regulations and usually in partnership with local businesses.
Types of Gambling Allowed in Mexico
- Casinos: Offer table games like blackjack, roulette, poker, and slot machines.
- Sportsbooks: Legal betting on football, boxing, baseball, and international sports.
- Horse Racing & Greyhound Racing: Mainly pari-mutuel style betting.
- Lotteries and Raffles: Mostly operated by government or approved charities.
- Online Gambling: Includes sports betting, online poker, bingo, and slot games.
Top 20 Legal Casinos in Mexico (2025)
Below is a list of the top 20 legal casinos in Mexico as of 2025, based on popularity, size, customer service, game variety, and licensing:
1. Caliente Casino – Tijuana (Baja California)
- One of the largest and oldest legal casinos in Mexico.
- Offers sports betting, slot machines, poker, and live entertainment.
2. PlayCity Casino – Mexico City
- Known for its large gaming floor and modern design.
- Offers more than 600 slot machines and table games.
3. Casino Life – Mexico City
- Elegant casino located in the heart of the capital.
- Live roulette, blackjack, bingo, and poker tournaments.
4. Casino Codere – Monterrey (Nuevo León)
- Large gaming space with over 700 slot machines.
- Licensed sports betting and luxury dining available.
5. Emotion Casino – Guadalajara (Jalisco)
- Popular among locals and tourists.
- Poker room, slots, and a dedicated sports bar.
6. Big Bola Casino – Toluca (State of Mexico)
- Strong customer base, known for responsible gaming.
- Offers roulette, blackjack, and electronic machines.
7. Winland Casino – Zapopan (Jalisco)
- Premium service and VIP programs.
- Known for live poker and modern slot games.
8. Caliente Casino – Mexicali (Baja California)
- Offers full sports betting services and slots.
- Also includes horse betting options.
9. Golden Lion Casino – León (Guanajuato)
- Recently renovated and fully licensed.
- Known for friendly staff and fair play.
10. PlayCity Casino – Puebla
- Located in a busy commercial zone.
- Offers free drinks to players and regular raffles.
11. Emotion Casino – Culiacán (Sinaloa)
- Well-run and monitored casino with a wide game variety.
- Regular promotions and discounts for members.
12. Casino Dubai Palace – Cancún (Quintana Roo)
- Luxury setup for tourists.
- Offers both gaming and international cuisine.
13. Jubilee Casino – Aguascalientes
- Focuses on electronic gaming machines.
- Popular during the San Marcos Fair season.
14. Casino Central – Hermosillo (Sonora)
- Family-friendly environment, strict security.
- Bingo, slots, and small betting windows.
15. Caliente Casino – Ensenada
- Sea-facing property with licensed betting.
- Sports betting on Mexican and international games.
16. Casino Life – San Luis Potosí
- Located in a central shopping mall.
- Excellent customer service and weekend offers.
17. Big Bola Casino – Querétaro
- Offers a mix of traditional and digital games.
- Food court and bar inside the facility.
18. Emotion Casino – Mazatlán
- Near the beach, attracts many tourists.
- Operates with full SEGOB licensing.
19. Casino Viva México – Chihuahua
- Traditional casino with modern updates.
- Known for competitive table games.
20. Caliente Casino – Rosarito
- A hot spot for tourists from the U.S.
- Offers promotions for U.S. players with ID.
Online Gambling and Betting in Mexico (2025)
Mexico allows online gambling and sports betting if done through licensed platforms. Some of the most trusted legal betting websites and apps include:
- Caliente.mx – The most popular online sports betting platform.
- Codere.mx – Offers betting on Liga MX, UFC, and more.
- Strendus – Includes online slots, live dealer games, and sports.
- Betway.mx – International brand legally licensed in Mexico.
- PlayCity.mx – Offers online bingo, video slots, and virtual sports.
Each of these platforms requires players to be over 18, complete identity verification, and deposit money using legal banking channels. Winnings are reported and may be taxed if above a certain limit.
Gambling Taxation in Mexico (2025)
The taxation structure for gambling in Mexico includes:
- Casino Operators: Pay taxes on gross gaming revenue (GGR), varying by state.
- Players: May be required to pay income tax on large winnings.
- Online Bets: All legal online platforms report to the government.
Gambling Regulation and Monitoring Bodies
- SEGOB (Secretaría de Gobernación) – Main regulatory authority.
- Dirección General de Juegos y Sorteos (DGJS) – Department under SEGOB, handles licensing and supervision.
- SAT (Tax Administration Service) – Monitors tax compliance from casinos and online platforms.
These bodies work together to ensure responsible gambling, prevent money laundering, and enforce the law.
Conclusion
As of 2025, Mexico has a well-structured and open gambling system regulated by federal authorities. Legal casinos are operating across the country with proper licenses, and both offline and online betting options are available to residents and tourists. The top 20 casinos listed above are the most trusted and regulated in the country. Anyone wishing to gamble in Mexico should choose only licensed operators and follow the age and identity rules to ensure a legal and safe experience.
Unlicensed gambling operations, whether physical or digital, are considered illegal and may lead to fines or prosecution. Overall, Mexico’s gambling environment in 2025 is mature, diverse, and well-regulated, making it a legal and attractive destination for gaming.
