Latin America
Mexico licence.
SEGOB/DGJS
Existing permit-holding partnerships only.
This framework is materially unsettled right now. Read the honest read below before committing a timeline to it.
What the regulator asks for
Year one cost
No standalone online licence
Online operates only via partnership with land-based permit holder. Sublicensing newly prohibited (decree 17 November 2023, effective on existing permit expiry).
Timeline
Permit-tied; new permits limited
No new slot permits since November 2023 decree. 15-year max for new permits.
Gaming tax
IEPS raised from 30% to 50% under 2026 fiscal package. Plus 1%-2% permit contribution. Plus federal player withholding.
Marketing climate
Restrictions tightening. Reform bill expected (Sheinbaum administration) ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosting.
The market
Mexico's framework rests on the 1947 Federal Gaming Law plus 2004 Regulations plus the November 2023 Presidential Decree. 380 land-based casinos authorised end-2023; ~30 licensed online platforms. Stake live via Uno Capali permit-agent structure (March 2025) signals practical entry method.
How the application runs
Permit-holder partnership. SEGOB approval.
Ongoing compliance
AML under Mexican framework. Self-exclusion register limited.
What you can and cannot say
Tightening; reform bill pending.
The honest read
What it means for your plan
Outdated framework plus the 50% IEPS makes Mexico structurally challenging despite massive market opportunity. Wait for the Sheinbaum reform bill before committing capital.
For operators planning next steps
From a licence comparison to an operator launch plan
Fees and requirements alone do not establish eligibility or readiness. Confirm current regulatory conditions with the authority and then plan product, payments and implementation.
Get 3 actions
Weighing up Mexico?
One sentence is enough. I read these myself and reply with three actions you can take.