Just arrived in Latin America and want to bet on sports? Here's your complete checklist to go from zero to placing your first bet. Follow these steps in order.
PHASE 1: PREPARATION
- Confirm legal status: Verify sports betting is legal in your country (Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Chile = yes)
- Have valid ID ready: US passport works for most sportsbooks. Cédula de extranjería opens more options.
- Decide deposit method: Crypto (easiest), cash (Efecty/OXXO), or local bank (requires local account)
- Set a budget: Decide how much you're willing to lose. This is entertainment money only.
PHASE 2: CHOOSE A SPORTSBOOK
🥇 Recommended First Sportsbook
Betsson - Best for most expats. English interface, accepts US passport, Efecty cash deposits, licensed in multiple countries. Start here.
Alternative: Stake if you prefer crypto deposits.
- Verify license: Check that the sportsbook is licensed in your country (Coljuegos, SEGOB, SPA, LOTBA, etc.)
- Confirm US passport accepted: Not all books do—Betsson, Stake, bet365 do
- Check deposit options: Make sure your preferred method is available
PHASE 3: REGISTRATION
- Create account: Enter email, create password, provide basic info
- Complete KYC verification: Upload passport photos (front + back or photo page)
- Verify email/phone: Confirm your contact information
- Wait for approval: Usually 24-48 hours for passport verification
PHASE 4: FIRST DEPOSIT
- Claim welcome bonus (optional): Read terms—wagering requirements may apply
- Make minimum deposit: Start small ($10-20 equivalent) to test the system
- Confirm funds arrived: Check your account balance
- Set deposit limits: Use responsible gambling tools to cap deposits
PHASE 5: FIRST BET
- Navigate to your sport: Find NFL, NBA, MLB, UFC, or local football
- Understand the odds format: Switch to American odds in settings if preferred
- Place a small test bet: $5-10 on something simple (moneyline or spread)
- Confirm bet placed: Check "My Bets" or "Open Bets" section
PHASE 6: ONGOING
- Download mobile app: For convenient betting on the go
- Test withdrawal: Make a small withdrawal to confirm it works
- Open second account: Line shop between 2-3 books for best odds
- Set up streaming: NFL Game Pass, NBA League Pass, or local TV packages
QUICK START SUMMARY
Fastest path to betting:
1. Sign up at Betsson (5 min)
2. Upload passport for verification (24-48 hrs)
3. Deposit via Efecty/crypto (instant-30 min)
4. Place your first bet
Total time: 1-2 days