Ireland’s revamped gambling regulation is set to enter a new phase as the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) prepares to begin issuing licenses to operators. This marks the first major step toward the implementation of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which modernizes Ireland’s outdated gambling laws, providing the country with a regulatory framework suited for today’s digital era. The process is expected to open on February 5, 2026, with remote operators eligible to apply starting July 1, 2026, and in-person operators on December 1, 2026.
GRAI’s Enhanced Regulatory Role
The GRAI, which took over responsibilities for gambling in Ireland in 2025, has now been granted full authority to enforce the new laws. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan signed the commencement order earlier this week, giving the GRAI the power to accept applications from operators. With the new regulations, the GRAI can issue fines up to €20 million or 10% of a licensee’s turnover—whichever is greater—if operators fail to adhere to the terms set forth by the new framework.
“The Act provides the GRAI with the necessary enforcement powers to take appropriate and focused action where licensees fail to comply with licensing terms, conditions, and regulations, and to deal with unlicensed operators,” O’Callaghan stated. This includes applying for court orders to stop illegal operators from continuing their activities.
Licensing Categories and Requirements
As part of this new regulation, the GRAI will issue three distinct types of licenses: Business-to-Consumer (B2C), Business-to-Business (B2B), and charitable or philanthropic licenses. The B2C licenses will cover both in-person and remote betting, while the B2B licenses will allow companies to provide gambling products or services. The licensing for charitable gambling, such as lottery or pool betting at events, will take effect at a later date.
A critical part of the new regulatory approach includes extensive “boots-on-the-ground” assessments of gambling venues, ensuring that locations are adequately vetted and in compliance with the new legislation. The GRAI will also monitor the proximity of gambling establishments to sensitive locations such as schools and ATMs. This is in line with the government’s commitment to address gambling-related harms, particularly among vulnerable populations like children.
Stricter Consumer Protections and Advertising Regulations
The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 includes several safeguards aimed at protecting consumers, especially young people, from the harmful effects of gambling. One such measure prohibits gambling operators from accepting credit card payments, a step designed to curb excessive gambling. The law also allows players to set their own gambling limits and mandates operators to close accounts and refund money where necessary.
Advertising restrictions are also a key feature of the new law. Gambling advertisements will be strictly regulated, including a ban on gambling promotions between 5:30 AM and 9:00 PM on TV and radio. Furthermore, adults will need to opt in to receive gambling marketing communications, making it harder for underage individuals to be exposed to such content.
The Road Ahead for Ireland’s Gambling Industry
This shift in Ireland’s gambling landscape comes after years of calls for a more modernized regulatory framework. The previous laws, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, were deemed inadequate to handle the complexities of the modern gambling market. With the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 now in effect, the government is hopeful that the new system will provide a safer environment for both operators and consumers.
As the GRAI begins the licensing process, there is a clear push to balance the opportunities for growth in Ireland’s gambling market with the need for robust consumer protections. The upcoming rules reflect the government’s commitment to addressing the social impact of gambling, ensuring that the industry evolves in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Source:
“Irish gambling operators can apply for licence from Thursday under new legislation“, irishexaminer.com, February 4, 2026.
