Apple Enforces New Licensing Requirements for Betting Apps in Brazil
In response to recent regulatory changes in Brazil’s betting industry, Apple has updated its App Store guidelines to mandate that developers of fixed-odds betting applications obtain a valid license from the country’s Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA). This move aligns with Brazil’s efforts to regulate and supervise the betting sector more effectively.
Understanding the New Licensing Requirement
The SPA, operating under Brazil’s Ministry of Finance, oversees various betting activities, including fixed-odds betting, lotteries, and promotional sweepstakes. Its responsibilities encompass authorizing, regulating, monitoring, and sanctioning entities within the sector to ensure compliance with national legislation.
Apple’s updated policy stipulates that any app featuring gambling-related content—identified by a Yes response to the gambling question in the App Store Connect age rating questionnaire—must provide evidence of a valid SPA license. Consequently, these apps will automatically receive an A18 age rating in Brazil, restricting access to users aged 18 and above.
Steps for Developers to Comply
To adhere to these new requirements, developers must submit a new version of their app for review, as merely updating the App Review Information section in App Store Connect will not initiate the verification process. The submission should include:
– License information entered in the Notes field.
– Supporting documents attached via the file attachment field.
Beyond age restrictions, developers are also obligated to comply with all local disclosure and warning requirements, such as gambling risk warnings. Apple recommends consulting legal counsel for any questions regarding these obligations.
Broader Context and Implications
This policy update is part of a series of adjustments Apple has made to its App Store guidelines in response to regulatory changes worldwide. For instance, in March 2026, Apple introduced a policy requiring certain health apps to disclose whether they are regulated medical devices in the US, UK, and Europe. Developers have until early 2027 to comply with this requirement. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/26/new-app-store-policy-requires-medical-device-disclosures-for-some-health-apps/?utm_source=openai))
Additionally, in February 2026, Apple expanded its age assurance tools in regions including Brazil, Australia, Singapore, and parts of the US. This expansion aims to enforce new App Store restrictions for apps rated 18+, ensuring that users in these regions are confirmed adults through reasonable methods before downloading such apps. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/24/apple-expands-age-assurance-tools-as-new-app-store-requirements-roll-out-in-several-regions/?extended-comments=1&utm_source=openai))
These updates reflect Apple’s ongoing efforts to align its App Store policies with local regulations and to promote a safer and more compliant digital environment for users worldwide.
