Ireland’s New Gambling Licences to Launch Mid-2026

The Irish gambling sector is on the brink of transformation, with a new regulatory regime coming into force by mid-2026.

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) will spearhead this overhaul, ushering in a modern licensing framework, enhanced consumer protections, and a new Social Impact Fund aimed at combating gambling-related harm.

Operators looking to enter or remain in the Irish market must prepare now. The licensing window will open in 2025, and the GRAI will impose strict obligations, including photo ID verification, ad restrictions, and free bet bans.

Read on to understand how these changes will reshape Ireland’s gambling industry and how you can stay compliant.

Ireland’s New Gambling Licensing Regime to Go Live in Mid-2026: What Operators Need to Know

Key Points

• Ireland’s new licensed gambling regime will launch in mid-2026.
• Applications for licences will open later in 2025.
• The Social Impact Fund, funded by operators, will begin after licensing.

A Two-Phase Rollout: Licensing in 2025, Operations in 2026

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) confirmed it will begin accepting applications for gambling licences later in 2025. However, no operator will be able to legally offer services under the new regime until mid-2026, when the full framework takes effect.

This phased implementation reflects the complexity of transitioning to a fully regulated market. According to Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, the delay allows time to build the necessary oversight infrastructure and provide clarity on compliance requirements.

Ireland’s Social Impact Fund Delayed but Remains Central

As part of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, the government will launch a Social Impact Fund financed by licensed gambling operators. The fund will support:

• Public health campaigns
• Addiction treatment services
• Research into gambling behaviour
• Educational programs for responsible gambling

Despite political pressure to activate the fund earlier, O’Callaghan emphasized that operator contributions require a licensing foundation. The contribution rate will be a percentage of each licensee’s annual turnover, but the exact percentage is still under consultation.

For comparison, the UK Gambling Commission’s statutory levy—which took effect this month—varies based on licence type, from 0.4% to 1% of gross gambling yield.

What the New Regulatory Framework Will Enforce

Ireland’s new regulatory regime will bring the country closer to modern European standards. The key provisions include:

• Ban on free bets and credit card payments
• Watershed advertising restrictions, particularly during live sporting events
• Mandatory identity verification using photographic ID
• Increased penalties for operators who breach consumer protection rules

The GRAI will be tasked with enforcing these measures, supported by a growing staff—expected to number 35 by the end of 2025, with more hires planned for 2026 and 2027.

The Authority’s goal is to create a safer gambling environment while preserving industry innovation and competitiveness.

What Operators Should Do Now

Operators hoping to enter the Irish market—or maintain their current presence—must begin preparations:

• Review internal compliance frameworks for alignment with GRAI’s expected standards
• Prepare documentation for licence applications
• Ensure systems can accommodate photo ID verification and ad restrictions
• Plan budget forecasts to include potential Social Impact Fund contributions

Firms that fail to comply or are caught operating without a licence after mid-2026 could face severe penalties, including fines and bans from the market.

The Clock Is Ticking for Irish Gambling Reform

Ireland is preparing for the largest regulatory overhaul in its gambling history, with a comprehensive licensing regime set to debut by mid-2026. While the wait for full implementation may seem long, the early opening of the application window in 2025 means operators must act now to avoid being left behind.

With new rules on identity verification, advertising, and operator accountability, the GRAI aims to create a transparent, safe, and well-regulated gambling environment. The reforms reflect a growing emphasis across Europe on protecting consumers while fostering a fair competitive landscape.

Operators who align early with Ireland’s vision for a safer gambling future will not only meet compliance requirements but also gain a strong foothold in one of Europe’s most promising regulated markets.

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