Raising the Stakes: Ireland's New Gambling Licensing Framework is Operational

In previous briefings published in October 2024 and April 2025, we examined the new licensing regime introduced by the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 (the Act) and the establishment of an independent regulator, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). The new regime is intended to provide a streamlined and modern regulatory and licensing framework for the Irish gambling sector.

 

The Commencement Order

On 3 February 2026, the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration signed a commencement order bringing key aspects of the Act into force from 5 February 2026. The Minister described this as "another important step towards replacing Ireland's outdated gambling laws with a streamlined and simplified licensing framework".

GRAI Licensing Regime

This commencement order enables the GRAI to begin accepting applications for, and issuing, remote and in person betting licences. Applicants can now apply for these licences via the GRAI's Operator Portal.

 

Enforcement Powers

Other provisions of the Act commenced by this order grant the GRAI additional enforcement powers to take action where licensees fail to comply with licensing terms and/or relevant requirements under the Act or where gambling businesses operate without a licence.

• Administrative sanctions: Fines of up to EUR20 million or 10% of a licensee's turnover, whichever is the greater.
• Criminal enforcement powers: If a licensee is convicted of an offence under the Act, their licence can be suspended or revoked.
• Court orders: The GRAI may apply to the Court for orders directing operators carrying out prohibited gambling activities to cease doing so.

 

Key Consumer Protection Measures

The order also commences several important consumer protection measures, including:

• A ban on the use of credit cards to pay for gambling activities.
• Restrictions preventing children from gambling or being employed by betting operators.
• An obligation on licensees to allow customers to set financial limits on their online or remote gambling spend.
• A requirement that licensees report any suspicious gambling behaviour to the GRAI.
• Obligations on remote gambling providers to ensure the online protection of children.
• Enabling the GRAI to cap the amount that can be deposited with a licensee.
• Obligations around closing accounts and returning any remaining funds to customers.

 

Conclusion

The signing of this commencement order represents a significant milestone in the transition to Ireland’s new gambling regulatory framework. With the GRAI now empowered to issue licences, enforce compliance, and implement enhanced consumer protection measures, operators face a fundamentally reshaped regulatory environment. Businesses engaged in the gambling sector should act promptly to assess their obligations under the Act, update internal policies, and prepare for the operational requirements of the new licensing system.