Overview of Regulatory Changes
Starting on May 8, 2026, apps with fixed-odds betting or gambling features will require a valid license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) to be distributed on the App Store in Brazil. This regulation stems from updates to Brazil's fixed-odds betting laws aimed at ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards. App developers must be prepared to adapt their processes to meet these licensing requirements.
The inclusion of fixed-odds betting features in an app is identified through the age rating questionnaire in App Store Connect. Selecting Yes to the gambling question will automatically apply an age rating of A18 for users in Brazil. Developers should carefully assess their app's content to determine whether this designation applies to their product.
Submission Process for Compliance
To initiate the license verification process, developers must submit a new version of their app for review. Updating the App Review Information section alone will not trigger the necessary review process. This step ensures that the app complies with Brazil's legal framework for gambling-related applications.
When submitting the app, developers must include their license details in the App Review Information section of App Store Connect. Providing this information is essential for the verification process, and failure to do so could result in delays or rejection of the app's distribution in Brazil.
Legal and Ethical Compliance
Apps distributed in Brazil must adhere to all disclosure and warning requirements, including those related to age restrictions and gambling risks. These provisions are mandated by Brazilian law to protect users, particularly minors, from potential adverse effects of gambling activities.
Developers are encouraged to consult their legal counsel to ensure full compliance with these regulations. This step is crucial for avoiding legal repercussions and maintaining the integrity of their app within Brazil's market.
Impact of Age Rating Adjustments
When an app's gambling features are disclosed in the age rating questionnaire, its age rating in Brazil will be set to A18. This rating communicates to users that the app is suitable only for adults, aligning with the country's strict guidelines on gambling activities.
Developers should be aware of the potential implications this rating adjustment may have on their user base and marketing strategies. Properly addressing these changes can help mitigate any negative impacts on app visibility and user engagement.
Key Steps for Developers
To comply with the new regulations, developers should take several proactive measures. First, they must obtain the required fixed-odds betting license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets. This may involve navigating complex application processes and providing detailed documentation to the relevant authorities.
Second, developers need to review their app's content to ensure that it meets all legal disclosures, age restrictions, and user warnings mandated by Brazilian law. These requirements are non-negotiable and play a critical role in securing approval for distribution on the App Store in Brazil.