Ireland’s Gambling Regulator Publishes Licensing Guidelines Ahead of New System Launch

This move marks the beginning of a new regulatory era for the Irish gambling sector, with applications expected to open “later this year,” although no specific date has been confirmed.

The guidelines, now available on the GRAI website, are aimed primarily at B2C operators—both land-based and online—who wish to enter the regulated Irish market. They outline the expectations, documentation requirements, and fee structures applicants must comply with, providing a clearer picture of the process. A key element of the new framework is the introduction of a mandatory 28-day Notice of Intention, which will serve as a formal heads-up to the regulator that a business intends to submit an application.

While the initial rollout focuses exclusively on B2C entities, GRAI has stated that licensing for B2B providers, charities, and philanthropic gambling operations will follow in later phases. This staggered approach is designed to ensure an orderly transition to the new regime and to allow the regulator time to process and adapt to the volume and complexity of applications.

Until the new system is operational, gambling businesses in Ireland are advised to continue applying for and renewing licences through the current legal mechanisms: the Revenue Commissioners under the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956. Additionally, lottery licences will remain under the jurisdiction of the District Courts and An Garda Síochána until further notice.

GRAI also plans to release information “soon” for certification laboratories interested in testing gambling products for regulatory compliance. As part of its growing international cooperation, the authority has signed its third Memorandum of Understanding with European counterparts this summer, further bolstering its commitment to robust oversight and cross-border collaboration.

This latest development signals that Ireland is edging closer to a modern, transparent, and comprehensive gambling regulatory system.