Apple Now Requires Official Licensing for Fixed-Odds Betting Apps in Brazil

Apple is updating its distribution requirements for the Brazilian market, bringing the App Store into alignment with local regulatory shifts. Developers offering fixed-odds betting features must now provide proof of a valid license to continue distributing their apps in Brazil. This move ensures that gambling services on the platform adhere to the legal frameworks established by the Brazilian government.

The New Licensing Mandate

Following changes to Brazil’s fixed-odds betting regulations, Apple now requires apps with gambling features to hold a valid license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA). Without this authorization, apps featuring fixed-odds betting cannot be distributed on the App Store within the region.

This requirement applies specifically to apps that identify as gambling services. During the app setup process in App Store Connect, developers must answer the gambling question in the age rating questionnaire. Selecting “Yes” triggers the requirement to provide the SPA license.

How to Submit Your License via App Store Connect

It’s critical to note that simply updating the “App Review Information” section in App Store Connect is not enough to trigger a review. To initiate the license verification process, developers must submit a new version of their app.

When submitting the new version for review, developers should follow these steps to ensure the license is verified correctly:

• Locate the App Review Information section: Navigate to this section within App Store Connect.
• Provide License Details: Enter the specific details of the SPA license directly into the Notes field.
• Attach Documentation: Use the file attachment field to upload any necessary supporting documents that verify the license’s validity.

Age Ratings and Legal Compliance

Beyond the licensing requirement, Apple is enforcing strict age restrictions for gambling apps in the Brazilian market. When a developer selects “Yes” to the gambling question in the age rating questionnaire, the app’s Brazil age rating is automatically set to A18.

developers are responsible for ensuring their apps comply with all legal disclosures and warnings. This includes, but is not limited to, clear communications regarding:

• Age restrictions.
• Potential gambling risks.

Apple advises developers to consult with their own legal counsel to ensure they are meeting all specific legal obligations under Brazilian law.

Key Takeaways for Developers

• Mandatory License: A valid license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) is required for fixed-odds betting apps in Brazil.
• Submission Method: You must submit a new app version to start the verification process; updating metadata alone is insufficient.
• Automatic Rating: Gambling apps will be assigned an A18 age rating in Brazil.
• Documentation: License details must be entered in the Notes field and supported by uploaded documents in App Store Connect.

Looking Ahead

As Brazil continues to formalize its betting and gambling landscape, developers should expect more rigorous oversight. Aligning with the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) is no longer optional for those wishing to access the Brazilian mobile market. By streamlining the verification process through App Store Connect, Apple is creating a regulated environment that prioritizes legal compliance and user protection.