In this guide
Key takeaway: Polymarket operates legally across most territories, though it occupies uncertain regulatory territory in numerous jurisdictions. American users face restrictions. Review your nation's gambling and financial regulations before you begin trading.
Is Polymarket legal? The response varies based on your location. Because Polymarket functions as a blockchain-based decentralised system, it lacks a single regulatory authority — yet that reality does not exempt users from complying with their home nation's legislation.
United States — Blocked
Polymarket remains unavailable to American citizens and those residing in the US. Following a $1.4 million CFTC settlement during 2022 concerning the provision of unregistered event contracts, Polymarket exited the American market and implements active geoblocking against US-based internet addresses. Circumventing this restriction through VPN technology breaches Polymarket's user agreement.
United Kingdom — Grey zone
The UK's Gambling Commission has neither formally authorised nor prohibited platforms such as Polymarket. Citizens can use the service without impediment, though they lack statutory safeguards. Any earnings must be reported to HMRC in accordance with applicable tax regulations.
Germany — Grey zone
Germany's Glücksspielstaatsvertrag (GlüStV 2021) establishes rules for internet-based gambling activities. Prediction markets occupy an uncertain position within this framework — neither formally authorised nor explicitly forbidden. Residents can engage with Polymarket without barriers, though some legal uncertainty persists. See our detailed German legal guide.
Canada — Accessible
Canada imposes no nationwide restriction preventing consumers from using prediction markets. Gambling rules differ across provinces, yet Polymarket remains widely available and actively utilised throughout the country.
Australia — Grey zone
Australia's Interactive Gambling Act concentrates enforcement on service providers rather than end-users. Residents can participate in Polymarket with relatively modest legal exposure, though the regulatory environment remains somewhat unsettled.
⚠️ This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently — consult a local lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
Tax obligations everywhere
Across virtually all nations, authorities expect traders to report their earnings. British traders may face Capital Gains Tax on profits. German participants owe income tax on gains. Maintain thorough documentation of all transactions.
PolyGram supplies transaction history downloads to streamline your tax filing obligations. Start trading on PolyGram →