Brazil Expands Betting Licenses: 21 New Operators Approved in 2025

Brazil’s regulated online betting market continues to expand, with the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) issuing 21 new full licenses on April 11, 2025. This latest development brings the total number of fully licensed operators to 35, overseeing 173 authorized brands. As Brazil solidifies its legal framework for sports betting, this move marks another significant step toward a structured and competitive industry.

Brazil’s Rapidly Growing Betting Market

Since the official launch of the regulated market on January 1, 2025, Brazil has been working to establish a stable environment for operators and bettors alike. Initially, only 14 companies secured full licenses, while 52 others operated under provisional approvals, awaiting certification. These temporary licenses allowed them to function under a strict 30-day compliance window, ending on March 30—though an extension was possible if operators demonstrated progress in meeting regulatory requirements.

The announcement of 21 new full licensees reinforces the government’s commitment to a transparent betting ecosystem. Major global operators such as Bet365, Betano, and Betfair have now received full authorization, alongside local brands like Aposta Ganha and Betsul. This blend of international and domestic companies creates a dynamic, competitive landscape.

Among the newly licensed brands are:

• Betano (Kaizen Gaming Brasil)
• Sportingbet and Betboo (Ventmear Brasil S.A.)
• Bet365 (HS do Brasil)
• Aposta Ganha (Aposta Ganha Loterias)
• Betfair (Betfair Brasil Ltda.)
• Novibet (NVBT Gaming Ltda.)

With these additions, Brazil’s regulated betting market is poised for further expansion, offering players more options while maintaining strict compliance measures.

Challenges and Regulatory Adjustments

While licensing has progressed, the certification process has presented hurdles. Many operators have faced delays due to evolving regulatory requirements. KTO, one of the first 14 companies to receive full authorization, described the experience as “stressful” due to changing guidelines. However, regulators have been actively refining the process.

In response to industry feedback, Brazil’s government introduced Normative Instruction No. 3/2025 in March, streamlining technical and compliance requirements. This measure aims to reduce delays and create a more efficient licensing pathway.

Despite these adjustments, not all companies have secured full approval. Betsson and Nexus International, for example, are still working to meet certification standards and must submit the necessary documentation by April 30, 2025, to finalize their licenses.

Financial Impact and Future Outlook

The economic impact of Brazil’s betting market is substantial. Licensed operators have already contributed BRL 2.1 billion (approximately $365 million) in licensing fees. As the industry matures, the government is expected to introduce further regulatory refinements to address market dynamics and emerging challenges.

For now, 69 operators, including both full and provisional license holders, are active in the market. The next phase will focus on consumer protection measures, stricter advertising guidelines, and continued oversight to ensure long-term sustainability.

Brazil’s betting industry is entering a critical phase of development. As new licenses are granted and the market expands, operators and regulators alike must navigate evolving regulations and industry trends to shape the future of one of the world’s fastest-growing betting landscapes.