Brazil’s Central Bank has introduced a significant regulatory update aimed at improving oversight of international betting-related transactions through Resolution No. 561/2026. The new framework establishes a dedicated classification code specifically for online betting payments, reinforcing transparency and compliance across Brazil’s rapidly expanding regulated gambling market.
Exclusive Code “34045” to Track Betting Transactions
Beginning October 1, 2026, all international financial transactions associated with betting activities must be classified under code “34045.” This new designation will apply to cross-border payments connected to online gambling and fixed-odds betting, allowing regulators to more effectively monitor financial flows within the sector.
The measure updates Annex V of Resolution No. 277/2022 and strengthens surveillance capabilities, improves transaction traceability, and supports broader anti-money laundering and regulatory enforcement objectives.
eFX Payment Restrictions Tightened
The updated regulation also imposes stricter controls on international payment and transfer services (eFX) used for betting-related transactions. Under the new rules:
- Individual transactions without integrated e-commerce platforms cannot exceed USD 10,000
- Financial market-related payments are similarly capped at USD 10,000
- Operators must settle transactions through authorized foreign exchange operations or Brazilian real accounts held by non-residents.
- Virtual assets and cryptocurrencies are prohibited for these transactions
Additionally, operators must ensure all transferred funds originate directly from verified user accounts, further strengthening payment integrity.
Payment Methods Limited to Approved Instruments
The Central Bank has also narrowed acceptable payment mechanisms. Operators may conduct transfers only through boleto systems or limited-value payment instruments capped at BRL 1,000, with no reload functionality permitted. Regulators also explicitly prohibit operators from offsetting incoming and outgoing transactions, reducing opportunities for opaque financial structuring.
Registration and Compliance Deadlines for Institutions
Institutions offering eFX services must formally register this operational category by October 30, 2026. Non-authorized institutions will have until May 2027 to secure the necessary regulatory approvals or cease operations entirely.
This creates a strict timeline for payment providers, operators, and financial intermediaries to upgrade internal compliance systems and reporting infrastructure.
Expanded Reporting and Record-Keeping Obligations
Financial institutions operating in foreign exchange, account management, or payment processing for gambling-related services will face expanded compliance requirements, including:
- Monthly transaction reporting to the Central Bank by the 10th of each month
- Full transaction record retention for a minimum of 10 years
- Enhanced auditing capabilities
- Standardized definitions for “user sender,” “user recipient,” and “foreign counterparty” roles
These measures strengthen long-term financial monitoring and reduce risks linked to fraud, money laundering, and illicit gambling-related transactions.
Brazil Continues Tightening Gambling Market Regulation
The introduction of a dedicated betting transaction code reflects Brazil’s broader strategy to formalize and closely regulate its emerging online gambling market. By increasing transparency, strengthening payment controls, and restricting unregulated financial channels, Brazilian authorities are positioning the sector within a stricter compliance environment as betting continues to expand nationwide.
