In this guide
Key takeaway: Polymarket reaches users across most nations outside America. The platform functions as a decentralised blockchain-based system without reliance on any single regulatory jurisdiction. Its lawfulness differs markedly by location — ranging from outright prohibition (United States) to uncertain standing (United Kingdom, European Union, Australia) to full permissibility (most Asian, African, and South American territories).
The question "is Polymarket legal?" ranks among the most frequently posed queries in the prediction market space. Your answer hinges on your geographic location, how your nation's authorities classify prediction markets (whether as gambling, regulated financial products, or information exchanges), and the vigour with which local enforcement bodies pursue users of overseas-based platforms.
United States — Explicitly Blocked
Polymarket remains unavailable to American citizens and permanent residents. Following 2022 enforcement action, Polymarket settled with the CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) by paying $1.4 million in penalties for offering derivative contracts without proper authorisation. The company subsequently exited the American market and deployed geographic filtering alongside identity verification protocols.
Americans seeking lawful access to prediction markets can turn to Kalshi, which secured CFTC authorisation in 2020 and continues broadening its contract catalogue.
European Union — Evolving Regulation
The European Union lacks a harmonised regulatory framework for prediction markets. MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation), fully operational since 2024, imposes fresh obligations on blockchain-based trading venues. Nevertheless, prediction markets as a category receive no explicit treatment under MiCA.
On the ground, Polymarket functions throughout EU member states. Each nation enforces distinct rules concerning gambling and financial services:
- Germany: Occupies uncertain legal terrain under GlüStV 2021. Not formally prohibited. Consult our German legal guide
- France: The ANJ (gambling regulator) has issued no specific ruling on prediction markets. Operational access available
- Netherlands: The KSA pursues unlicensed gambling operators. Prediction markets occupy ambiguous regulatory space
- Spain: DGOJ oversees internet gambling licensing. Polymarket technically functions but holds no licence
United Kingdom — Accessible, Unregulated
Britain's Gambling Commission has neither authorised nor prohibited Polymarket. UK residents engage with the platform without legal impediment. The FCA's stance on blockchain-based prediction markets remains undefined. For fiscal reporting, HMRC typically treats prediction market returns as either investment gains or other income.
Canada — Accessible
Canadian federal legislation contains no prohibition on individual participation in prediction markets. Provincial gambling statutes concentrate on platform operators rather than end-users. Canadians trade on Polymarket without legal barriers.
Australia — Grey Zone
Australia's Interactive Gambling Act focuses on operators providing unlicensed services to Australian-based customers. Direct user involvement in overseas prediction markets escapes explicit criminalisation, though the overall regulatory environment remains murky.
Asia & Rest of World
Polymarket enjoys broad accessibility throughout South-East Asia, the Middle East, South America, and Africa. Exceptions include mainland China (subject to comprehensive digital restrictions) and a small number of nations maintaining comprehensive cryptocurrency prohibitions.
Tax Obligations Are Universal
Even where Polymarket enjoys explicit legal standing in your location, earnings from prediction markets constitute taxable revenue across nearly all jurisdictions. PolyGram furnishes comprehensive transaction record downloads incorporating FIFO accounting methodology to support tax compliance. Engage a qualified tax professional within your region.
This content serves educational purposes exclusively and should not be interpreted as legal counsel. Regulatory frameworks evolve continuously. Seek guidance from a licensed attorney operating in your jurisdiction prior to commencing trading activity.
Access prediction markets across borders through PolyGram. Start trading on PolyGram →