Gambling is prohibited for these professions in Belgium

In Belgium, strict rules have been established regarding gambling that apply not only to minors.

Persons who work in certain professions are prohibited from gambling as well.

Professions with a gambling ban

The Belgian law excludes certain professions from gambling. These include:

• Magistrates: Judges and prosecutors
• Bailiffs: Judicial officers
• Notaries: Public notaries
• Members of the police force

The reason for this ban is the important social function of these professions and there can be no doubt about their independence. Gambling could lead to conflicts of interest which could pose a danger to the rule of law. Individuals with these professions, who could get in debt by irresponsible gambling behavior, are more susceptible for bribes by criminal organizations. 

Betting is allowed for these professions as long as it is done for leisure and does not interfere as a professional. The ban only applies to gambling where real money is involved or wagered.

Consequences of gambling with a ban

If you belong to one of the prohibited professions and gamble anyway, you risk various sanctions:

• Access ban: You may be refused entry to casinos gaming halls and betting shops.
• Fine: The Gaming Commission may impose a fine on you.
• Revocation of license: In the case of notaries and bailiffs, even their professional license can be revoked.

Gambling ban list 

The Gaming Commission checks who is and is not allowed to gamble via the EPIS list, the ‘Excluded Persons Information System’. 

This list is consulted when you want to enter a gambling establishment. If you are on the list, you will be refused entry.

Gambling ban by the employer

In addition to the legal ban an employer may also prohibit workers from gambling. Especially professions where discretion and integrity are of great importance such as bank employees and lawyers. 

This can be included in an employment contract. If these are violated you risk internal sanctions from the employer such as a warning or can even lead to dismissal.