loader search icon

A comprehensive guide to European gambling regulations

Published by Deni | January 22, 2025

Online casinos are popular across Europe; in fact, they have quite an interesting gambling history and are known for having some of the best regulations in the world.

Most European countries have some form of gambling legislation in place, with the strictness of these rules varying by country. So, if you’re looking for more information on the gambling laws in Europe, you’ve come to the right place.

On this page, we take a closer look at regulations in Europe and how they impact the top EU online casinos and their players.

History of online gambling in Europe

Gambling regulations and laws in Europe
Gambling regulations and laws in Europe

The EU has a decades-long history with online gambling. Gambling seems to have been part of European culture since ancient times. In the 16th century, Italy established its first casino, which is considered the start of modern-day casinos.

Then, in the 1990s, the internet came, which resulted in a shift in gambling habits. Then online gambling began, which expanded from internet cafes to the workplace and home. In 1996, Finland legalised online casinos, which is a pivotal point in European online gambling history.

In the early 2000s, online gambling continued its growth, with more European countries implementing laws and regulations legalising gambling. Then, in 2017, Finland created Veikkaus, a state-owned company consisting of three gambling companies that added more shape to the online gambling landscape.

In 2021, gambling was legalised in the Netherlands, and new regulations and a licensing system were in place. The different EU countries have taken great care in changing, adding to, or refining their gambling legislation. Each focuses on providing a safe environment where locals can enjoy fair gaming. The vulnerable remain protected throughout it all.

Laws of online gambling in Europe

With so many different European countries, EU laws generally apply to all, and then there are some country-specific regulations.

You won’t find a single gambling law that covers all EU regions. Still, there are directives that all countries must adhere to, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Anti-Money Laundering Directive (AMLD).

Basic rules by the CJEU all member states must follow

  • The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has basic rules that all member states are expected to follow, including gambling-related legislation. According to Article 56 TFEU, these operators are not allowed to offer gambling services to residents of other EU countries.
  • Member states can restrict the cross-border supply of certain gambling services to protect the public interest, especially minors and those vulnerable to gambling addiction.
  • However, the member states must show that these restrictions are necessary and for the public's best interest.

Below is an overview of these countries and their legislation:

Country Country-Specific Regulations
Gambling regulations in Austria Online gambling is mainly under monopoly, and limited options are available to private operators.
Gambling regulations in Belgium Online gambling is legal, but operators must be partnered with land-based casinos.
Gambling regulations in Bulgaria Online gambling is legal, but no licensing system is in place. Operators must get licensing from another EU country.
Gambling regulations in Croatia Online gambling is licensed and regulated within Croatia.
Gambling regulations in the Czech Republic Online gambling is legal. Foreign operators must be linked to a local entity to obtain a license.
Gambling regulations in Denmark Online gambling is legal and fully regulated within Denmark itself.
Gambling regulations in Estonia Gambling is regulated, and licensing is available. Operators must comply with local laws.
Gambling regulations in Finland Only operators that are owned by the state may offer their services.
Gambling regulations in France Sports betting and poker are legal. Online casinos are illegal.
Gambling regulations in Germany Legal gambling activity is available, but strict licensing requirements and regulations are in place.
Gambling regulations in Greece Online gambling is legal and regulated. Licensing is available to local and foreign operators.
Gambling regulations in Hungary Casinos can only be operated by state-controlled organisations.
Gambling regulations in Ireland No specific licensing system is in place, and licensing must be obtained from other EU countries, but gambling is legal.
Gambling regulations in Italy Online gambling is locally regulated, and operators must obtain licensing from Italian authorities.
Gambling regulations in Latvia Gambling is legal, and regulations are in place. Operators can get licensing from the Latvian authority.
Gambling regulations in Lithuania Strict licensing procedures are in place, along with strict regulations, but gambling is legal.
Gambling regulations in Luxembourg Online casino gambling is illegal here.
Gambling regulations in Malta Thriving online gaming country with licensing and regulation done by the Malta Gaming Authority.
Gambling regulations in the Netherlands Online gambling has been legal and regulated since 2021. Operators must adhere to licensing and regulations.
Gambling regulations in Poland Some forms of online gambling are legal, but strict regulations are in place.
Gambling regulations in Portugal Online casinos can be licensed and regulated by the Portuguese authorities.
Gambling regulations in Romania Online gambling is legal and regulated, and licensing is available.
Gambling regulations in the United Kingdom Online gambling is legal and under UKGC regulation.

Top Regulatory Bodies

There are a number of regulatory bodies that wield a lot of power and influence in their efforts to protect the players and the industry. These are some of those favoured among the EU countries:

  • Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is a pioneer in online gambling regulation. It issues licenses to foreign operators and regulates the market, ensuring fair play and player protection.
  • The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is one of the most respected regulatory bodies in Europe, famous for its stringent practices. It regulates all forms of gambling in the UK, including licensing and regulating foreign operators.
  • The Gibraltar Gambling Commission (GGC) is a globally recognised authority that regulates the industry. The GGC is considered one of the top three gambling regulators worldwide and is especially known for its strict licensing and auditing processes.

In addition to those three, many European countries have their own specific regulators. Their purpose is to oversee the entire gambling activity occurring in the country, from licensing to compliance with local laws and protection for vulnerable players.

One of the latest countries to join this list is Ireland. The Emerald Isle now has its own independent Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) that oversees both land-based and online activities.

United Kingdom

We would be remiss if we didn't start with the UK. These are the big leagues when it comes to online gambling. As you know, the UKGC is in charge of licensing and regulation here.

The UK is often referenced as an inspiration for regulatory updates as they have been known to have strict legislation to protect players and locals. It has a massive market size, which is evident by the fact that UK online casinos see high levels of consumer engagement.

That said, operators first need to survive the UKGC's regulatory requirements, which are no joke. Some of the key focus points of the legislation include responsible gaming, player protection, and anti-money laundering.

The compliance standards are quite high, and the competition levels are even higher. This means operators often have to spend quite a lot to get their sites up to standard per UK gambling regulations before they are allowed into the market.

Despite the strict legislation and the difficulties in obtaining a license, many operators want to carry this license as the UKGC has managed to establish consumer trust. The market offers a stable legal framework and a large player base that enjoys online gaming activity.

If you compare the UK to any other EU jurisdiction, the UK has a lot that easily gets it to the top spot. This includes the strong market and its potential. At the same time, other markets have only just started or are still trying to find their feet within the gambling industry.

Denmark

The Danish Gambling Authority, Spillemyndigheden, is a cornerstone of Denmark's gambling regulations. The DGA was established in 2000 to oversee land-based casinos and Danske Spil, the state lottery and betting company. Later, in 2013, the regulatory body expanded its authority to include online betting and casino operations.

Today, in addition to protecting players and engaging in important responsible gambling practices, the DGA also licenses operators. Thus, online casinos in Denmark can benefit from a clear and structured process for obtaining the necessary permits to operate legally in the country.

Sweden

Sweden's gambling market has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. It's now overseen by Spelinspektionen, the Swedish Gambling Authority.

Historically dominated by the state-owned Svenska Spel, online gambling activity was once tightly controlled under a monopoly. This all changed when Sweden opened its doors to international operators, mirroring Denmark's approach. Spelinspektionen was instrumental in creating and maintaining this newly established gambling market.

Now, online casinos in Sweden must meet demanding licensing requirements, including local server access and extensive documentation. However, they can also present their offering to a major gambling hub and be part of a safe and thriving playing environment.

Are gambling winnings taxable in Europe?

In Europe, the rules regarding the taxation of online gambling winnings vary by country. But we’ve got you covered with a general overview of tax-free countries and those where gambling winnings are taxed.

Countries Tax Status
Austria Players are not taxed. Operators pay taxes
Belgium Winnings are taxed, and operators must partner with an existing land-based casino
Bulgaria Winnings are taxable – operators must have a license from another EU country
Croatia Winnings are taxable, and online casino licensing is available
Czech Republic Winnings are taxable, and the operator must be partnered with a local entity
Denmark Tax-free
Estonia Winnings are taxable, and foreign operators must link to a local casino or entity to obtain a license
France Sports betting and poker are tax-free (online casinos are illegal)
Germany Tax-free with strict regulations
Greece Winnings are taxable
Hungary Winnings are taxable – only state-controlled organisations are allowed to operate
Ireland Tax-free
Italy Winnings are taxable, and Italian authorities control online casinos
Latvia Winnings are taxable and regulated by Latvian authorities
Lithuania
Winnings are taxable – a licensing system is in place
Luxembourg Online casino gaming is illegal
Malta Winnings are taxable – MGA issues licenses
Netherlands Tax-free
Poland Winnings taxable – state monopoly on certain gambling options
Portugal Tax-free
Romania Winnings are taxable – licensing system in place
United Kingdom Tax-free

Top online casinos in the EU

By now, you are probably wondering where you can use all this knowledge and are ready to jump in for some playtime. This market is one of the biggest in the world, featuring hundreds of EU online casinos with offerings that cater to variety and innovation. Here are a few names that stand out:

Expect top-notch entertainment with 2,000+ casino games, VIP promotions, and a focus on player safety.

Play like a demon and enjoy some fiery fun. Hell doesn't have to be the worst place on earth, especially when it's filled with some of the best games and promotions there is.

Add a little luck to your gameplay with Let's Lucky's selection of 9,500+ games, a VIP program, and a variety of game tournaments to take part in.

Regulatory changes expected for 2025

In 2025, we expect several regulatory changes to impact the European online gambling industry. Some changes will include new advertising restrictions that limit the use of celebrities and influences and restrictions on ad frequency and timing during sports broadcasts. Responsible gambling messages will also be required to be added to all promotions.

There will also be an increase in player protection measures, including mandatory cooling-off periods and play limits for online casinos, which aim to prevent problem gambling. Players will also be able to access enhanced self-exclusion programs, which are expected to be implemented across all EU member states. New and improved age verification processes will also be put in place to prevent underage gambling.

The encryption standards will be raised, and encryption will be required for all transactions. Other security-focused changes include stricter protocols for the storing and handling of personal data, as well as regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.

With the player in mind, EU operators will implement new financial vulnerability checks to identify and support financially vulnerable players. Financial risk assessments will also be conducted to ensure players' safety.

2025 is here, and it puts players' safety and satisfaction at the centre of all of the industry's innovations and efforts.

Leave us a review on Trustpilot!

Published: January 22, 2025

Anything incorrect or missing?

Featured Guides

CasinoWow.com Cookies

We use 🍪 cookies to improve your user experience. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies as described in our Cookie Policy.

Accept
subscribe icon

SUBSCRIBE for EXCLUSIVE offers!

Be the first to get exclusive bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.

follow us icon

Share this page across social platforms!