Ireland is updating its gambling laws with the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which will modernize how gambling is regulated across the country. Whether you’re a player, a business, or someone interested in Irish gambling, this guide explains the changes clearly and what they mean for you.
Why Ireland is Updating Its Gambling Laws
Current gambling laws in Ireland are outdated and don’t fully cover modern forms of gambling, including online casinos and new betting formats. The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 aims to:
- Make gambling safer and more responsible
- Ensure operators are licensed and regulated
- Protect vulnerable players, including children
- Update advertising rules
Key Changes in the Gambling Regulation Act 2024
1. New Licensing System
- All operators, including online casinos and betting sites, must obtain a licence from the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).
- Licences are specific to the type of gambling (gaming, betting, lottery).
- Operators must meet legal, fairness, and financial requirements.
2. Protection for Vulnerable Players
- Minimum age 18 to gamble online or in-person.
- Operators must implement safeguards to prevent underage access.
- National Gambling Exclusion Register allows voluntary self-exclusion.
- Support services will be funded and expanded to help problem gamblers.
3. Advertising Restrictions
- Gambling ads targeting children are completely banned.
- Ads on TV and radio restricted from 5:30am–9:00pm.
- Social media ads must target only users who are legally allowed to gamble.
4. Social Impact Fund for Gambling Addiction
- Commercial operators contribute financially to programs that prevent and treat gambling harm.
- Funds support education, responsible gambling initiatives, and treatment programs.
5. Gambling for Charitable Purposes
- Charities require a licence for lotteries or gambling activities.
- One-off lotteries can have prizes up to €360,000 if conditions are met.
- At least 30% of proceeds must go to the charity’s purpose.
6. Fines and Penalties
- Fines for non-compliance
- Licence suspension or revocation
- Imprisonment of up to 5 years in serious cases
When Will the Law Take Effect?
The law will come into effect once the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is fully operational. Full enforcement is expected in 2024–2025.
Upcoming Online Casino Licensing
While the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 is now in force, the licensing process for online casinos is expected to begin in early 2026 under the newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). Operators must meet strict standards before being granted a licence.
For a detailed guide on what this means for players and how to stay safe now, see our article: Ireland’s Online Casino Licensing: What Players Should Know in 2026.
How to Check if a Casino is Licensed
Once the new law is active, all online casinos and betting sites must hold a GRAI licence. You can verify licensed operators on the GRAI’s official website. Playing only licensed operators ensures a safe and legal gambling experience.
Summary Table
| Topic | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18+ |
| Licensing Authority | Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) |
| Ads | Restricted; no ads to children; TV/radio limited hours |
| Self-Exclusion | National Gambling Exclusion Register |
| Penalties | Fines, licence revocation, imprisonment |
Conclusion
The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 is a major step in modernizing gambling in Ireland. It ensures safer, more transparent gambling, protects vulnerable players, regulates advertising, and provides support for problem gamblers.
For players, it’s important to:
- Only play at licensed operators (see our list of all casinos)
- Set limits and gamble responsibly
- Stay informed about changes in the law
Sources:
📅 Last updated:
Written by: Martin K – iGaming Analyst covering Irish & EU online casinos
Reviewed by: Independent Gambling Compliance Specialist
We continuously monitor the Irish online casino market and update our rankings to reflect changes in licensing, bonuses, and player protection standards.