Virginia Online Casinos – A Guide to Online Gambling in VA

Virginia online casinos are currently illegal in the state due to a lack of regulation. However, plenty of other exciting gambling options are still available. Virginia has been at the forefront of online gambling legalization, being the first state to allow daily fantasy sites in 2016. In addition, residents of Virginia can legally participate in online lottery games. So, while online casinos may not be available yet, there are still opportunities for Virginians to partake in various forms of online gambling.

Virginia’s gambling options have expanded significantly, offering diverse choices. In addition to pari-mutuel wagering and Daily Fantasy Sports, residents can now enjoy the excitement of sports betting through various reputable sportsbooks. Although the introduction of land-based casinos was approved in 2020, online casinos and poker sites must be made available. Stay informed and explore the ever-evolving world of Virginia’s gambling scene.

Discover the top gambling options in Virginia in 2024 as we delve into the various game types, exciting bonuses, and legal landscape of online gambling. Stay informed and find the perfect gaming experience for you.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Virginia?

Virginia does not allow online casinos within its borders. The state has no laws permitting licensed online casinos or apps to offer real-money casino games. The gambling expansion legislation in Virginia does not include provisions for online casinos.

Virginia Players have a great alternative to traditional gambling – they can explore the exciting world of free online slots and table games at social and sweepstakes casinos. At these virtual casinos, players are given virtual coins to play and have the chance to win exciting prizes or enjoy themselves. In addition to this, Virginia also permits online gambling on pari-mutuel wagering, Daily Fantasy Sports, and state lottery sales. Moreover, as of January 2021, online sports betting has also been launched in the state. So, there are plenty of options for Virginia players to indulge in online gaming and wagering.

Avoid the risks of online casino gambling at unregulated offshore sites. These sites can abruptly shut down, leaving players without access to their funds and no way to recover them. Stick to regulated options for a safer and more secure experience.

When does Virginia plan to legalize online casino gambling?

Lawmakers have recently approved a substantial gambling expansion, but it appears that further expansion of real money online casino gaming is unlikely shortly. The focus will most likely be monitoring the progress of online sports wagering and commercial casino gambling once operational. 

If these forms of gambling meet or surpass expectations, and the state requires additional revenue sources to address budget deficits, lawmakers may eventually consider allowing online casino gambling. As a result, it is still being determined when we can expect to see companies offering promotions similar to the online casino bonuses available in New Jersey.

Legal Gambling Options in Virginia in 2024

Virginia offers a range of online gambling options, but not all are available in the state. This guide will provide a detailed overview of each gambling niche, including sports betting, daily fantasy, lottery, poker, and casino sites. We will also share each legal gambling product’s top-rated Virginia gambling sites. Our team has conducted thorough reviews of VA online gambling sites to ensure that only the best options are listed.

How do social online casinos with lotteries work?

If you are into playing real money casino games in Virginia, your safest bet is to go for social or sweepstakes gaming. Various sites offer casino games similar to real online casinos, where you can even play for cash prizes. If you have heard of Publishers Clearing House, you already know how legal sweepstakes work in the US. A sweepstakes contest must actually award the advertised prize. So, even if it may seem like Publishers Clearing House never gives away its millions of dollars (they actually do), they have to stay legal.

Sweepstakes must be free to enter and cannot offer an advantage through a purchase. This is why McDonald’s Monopoly does not require a burger purchase to participate. So, how do social casinos adapt to these rules? Casino sites have devised a clever method to ensure equal access for all players. Many states have regulations permitting sweepstakes as long as they adhere to specific formats. If not, they risk being considered a lottery or even gambling.

Social casino sites are widely accessible across the United States, including Virginia. These sites function through a token-based system, enabling players to have the opportunity to win real cash rewards without any obligation to make a purchase.

Virginia Lottery

The Virginia Lottery has been a vital funding source for the state’s K-12 public school system for over three decades. This esteemed institution generates a staggering $1.6 million daily, supporting educational initiatives across Virginia. As of 2020, residents can now conveniently participate in the Virginia Lottery online.

Virginia boasts a vibrant and comprehensive state lottery, offering a variety of thrilling games. Players can enjoy drawing games, scratchers, and instant win games. The draw games encompass state and interstate opportunities, allowing participants to aim for smaller jackpots or strive for bigger winnings in prestigious drawings such as Mega Millions, Powerball, and Cash4Life.

The Virginia Lottery now offers online lottery sales for draw games. You can easily create an account and subscribe to play a series of these games. While it does not currently provide instant win games or scratchers like other states do, it is a significant step towards a fully online lottery experience in Virginia.

Sports Betting Sites in Virginia

In 2020, a comprehensive sports betting bill was approved by state lawmakers, paving the way for mobile and online wagering to launch in January 2021. In a show of support, Governor Ralph Northam proposed, and lawmakers agreed to an amendment that included the state’s two NASCAR tracks as venues for sports gambling. 

The famous Colonial Downs horse track is also eligible to obtain a license for sports betting. Virginia imposes a 15% tax on sports betting revenue and requires operators to pay a licensing fee of $250,000, with an annual renewal fee of $200,000 for three years.

Daily Fantasy in Virginia

Virginia is the pioneer state in the US to regulate Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) betting. In March 2016, Governor Terry McAuliffe signed the bill, making Virginia the trailblazer in officially permitting daily fantasy sites to operate within its borders. The state’s Fantasy Sports Act introduces a range of safeguards and provisions, including a minimum age requirement of 18 for participation. We have thoroughly evaluated the DFS platforms available to residents of Virginia, and we are delighted to confirm that all the leading operators, such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and Yahoo, welcome accounts from Virginia residents.

Racing

With the influx of new visitors to the park for HHR, the racetrack saw an opportunity to revive live horse racing. In 2019, after a five-year hiatus, Virginia welcomed back live horse racing and pari-mutuel betting. Colonial Downs has plans to expand its race offerings to 18 races in 2020, three more than the previous year. Despite the recent return of live racing to Virginia, horse betting through mobile devices or computers is readily available. Virginia is among the states that permit players to use platforms like TVG to place bets on horse racing events nationwide.

For the best horse racing experience, we highly recommend choosing TVG from the three sites mentioned. TVG is a highly reputable horse racing site with many betting options to satisfy even the most imaginative bettor. However, TVG is more than just a betting platform. It is a comprehensive broadcast network dedicated to horse racing. With knowledgeable commentators available around the clock, you will gain valuable insights and tips from the TVG desks. Despite recent attempts by Fox Sports to encroach on TVG’s position as the sole horse betting network for Americans, TVG remains the top choice for accessing information on horse racing in the US.

Virginia Casino

There is no interest in legalizing or even discussing online casinos in Virginia. Instead, Virginia offers three land-based casinos for those seeking legal gambling opportunities. The possibility of having up to five casinos in Virginia is on the horizon. In February 2020, the Virginia legislature, along with Governor Ralph Northam, passed a bill allowing the cities of Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Richmond to hold referendums. These referendums will determine whether these cities can construct casinos within their limits.

They are introducing the thriving Rivers Casino Portsmouth, serving over one million satisfied customers. Excitement builds as the illustrious Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol and the esteemed Caesars Danville Casino unveil their temporary casinos, setting the stage for their grand openings in 2024. On the horizon, we anticipate the arrival of HeadWaters Resort & Casino in Norfolk, potentially offering its own temporary casino experience. Additionally, this November brings the opportunity for a second Richmond casino referendum, following a close defeat of a similar proposal two years ago. Stay tuned for the latest updates on Virginia’s vibrant casino scene.

Online Poker Sites in Virginia

At present, Virginia does not have any legal poker sites available. Online poker laws in Virginia are grouped with online casinos. This means that the only legal way to play poker games online in VA is through a mobile device while physically present at an authorized land-based casino. It is still being determined whether these operators will eventually offer mobile poker.

Legal age for gambling in Virginia

To engage in gambling activities in Virginia, it is crucial to be aware of the legal gambling age to ensure compliance with the law. The minimum age requirement for gambling in Virginia varies based on the specific activity. Individuals must be at least 18 years old for authorized daily fantasy betting sites. The exact age requirement applies to playing the Virginia Lottery. By understanding and adhering to the legal age guidelines, you can enjoy these gambling experiences while staying on the right side of the law.

To participate in online sports betting in Virginia, you must meet the minimum age requirement of 21, as is the standard in other states where this activity is legalized. Similarly, once commercial casinos are established in the state, they will enforce the 21+ age limit. Operators who permit underage gambling can expect significant penalties. Therefore, it is essential to provide proof of your age when signing up for any online gambling sites in Virginia.

Responsible gaming and addiction prevention

States that permit gambling should prioritize addiction prevention and addressing problem gambling. In Virginia, residents can access resources like the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VACPG) website, which provides tailored assistance and support. The site offers valuable resources, helplines, and email contacts. All authorized gambling sites in VA must include the VACPG’s contact information as part of their licensing and provide a self-exclusion option.

Virginia Gambling Laws in 2024

Virginia’s gambling laws have historically been stringent, but recent developments have ushered in new opportunities for residents. In 1987, the state introduced a lottery, and in 2020, it took a step further by legalizing iLottery services, offering convenient options for online games of chance. Since 1989, horse racing betting has been permitted, and since 2003, the added convenience of off-track bets has been allowed. Moreover, Virginia embraces charitable gambling and has legalized daily fantasy contests, presenting diverse entertainment options for residents to enjoy responsibly.

In 2020, Virginia’s legal gambling industry experienced significant breakthroughs due to the implementation of new legislation. This historic decision marks the first instance of legalized land-based casino venues in the state’s history. Moreover, the expanded gaming laws have paved the way for sports betting in Virginia. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating new chapter of legal gambling in the state.

The Virginia Lottery Board is crucial in regulating the newly legalized land-based casinos and online sports betting sectors. In the following sections of our comprehensive guide on online gambling in Virginia, we will explore the intricate nuances of the state’s online gambling laws in greater detail.

Online Casino Laws in Virginia

The passing of the Casino Gaming Law in April 2020 has ushered in exciting changes to Virginia’s gambling landscape. This groundbreaking legislation marks the state’s debut of commercial casino gaming, opening up new possibilities. Five cities – Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Richmond – now have the opportunity to become hosts to vibrant casino venues. However, the ultimate decision will rest in the hands of the local community, as they will determine the outcome through a referendum.

In 2020, voters in four cities expressed their approval of constructing a casino through referendums. However, the referendum in Richmond took place in November 2021. While state laws do not currently permit online casino gaming, the new legislation includes an intriguing provision. Once operational, each casino venue will have the authority to offer on-premises mobile casino gaming.

Virginia Online Sports Betting Laws

In April 2020, state legislators enacted a Sports Betting law that authorized mobile and online sports wagering. This legislation allows issuing up to 12 licenses for online sports betting platforms. Moreover, the bill sets the stage for implementing retail sports betting at newly approved casino venues within the state.

The Virginia Lottery initiated the application process for online sports betting licenses in Virginia in October 2020. As a result, on January 21, 2021, the first officially sanctioned online sportsbook was launched in Virginia. Within the following week, four more operators introduced their sports betting platforms in the state. The sports betting permit application period concluded in May 2021, resulting in 10 approved permit holders authorized to offer online sportsbooks in Virginia.

Daily Fantasy Laws in Virginia

On March 7th, 2016, Virginia officially became the first state to legalize and regulate daily fantasy sports sites. Implementing the Fantasy Contests Act, added to the Code of Virginia, established a legal framework for operating DFS sites within the state. According to the legislation, operators must pay a $50,000 fee to provide their services in Virginia.

In addition, operators must ensure that participants in fantasy contests are at least 18 years old. Notably, the legislation also mandates two independent audits per year for each DFS site, providing enhanced protection measures for fantasy players in Virginia. This groundbreaking law sets a precedent in safeguarding the interests of Virginian fantasy players while promoting a responsible and transparent environment for the operation of DFS sites.

Virginia Online Poker Laws

According to Virginia laws, online poker is not authorized, which means there are currently no legal poker sites in the state. However, it is worth noting that poker is among the gambling games permitted at Virginia’s commercial casino venues. Once these casinos are launched, on-premises mobile gaming will also be allowed. This allows players to play poker games on their mobile devices while at the casino. However, it is essential to highlight that player vs. player poker platforms will not be available in Virginia. Instead, players will have the chance to play poker games against the house on their mobile devices.

Online Lottery Laws in Virginia

Founded in 1987, the Virginia Lottery was established after resounding support from Virginians in a statewide referendum. Notably, in February 2020, Virginia became the seventh state to legalize the sale of lottery tickets online. This significant milestone was achieved shortly before the passing of bills that permitted sports betting and the operation of casinos.

As the exclusive and authorized organization, the Virginia Lottery offers online lotto tickets exclusively within the state. Residents of Virginia can conveniently purchase tickets for multi-state draw games online, including popular options such as Powerball and Mega Millions. Moreover, the official VA Lottery website provides an opportunity to engage in instant win scratchers, available at various price points ranging from $1 to $30.

Gambling Taxes in Virginia

Virginia residents and visitors must know the taxes imposed on gambling winnings. Both federal and state taxes apply, with a 24% federal tax rate in place. Additionally, the state tax rates vary based on your annual income. Stay informed and understand your tax obligations regarding gambling winnings in Virginia.

• <$3,000 = 2%
• $3,001 to $5,000 = $60 + 3% on income over $3,000
• $5,001 to $17,000 = $120 + 5% on income over $5,000
• >$17,001 = $720 + 5.75% on income over $17,000

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