Bets are placed, welcome to the game on a grand scale: Licensing in Ireland 2.0

Ireland’s gambling regulator (GRAI) has published licensing rules ahead of accepting applications for business-to-consumer licenses by 2026. 

The news is commented on by Kozhevnyk Yuliia — Lawyer at SBSB Fintech Lawyers: 

The publication of the licensing guide by the new Irish regulator, GRAI (Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland), marks a significant event that completely changes the landscape of the gambling business in the country. We are witnessing a shift from outdated legislation (the laws of 1931 and 1956) to a modern, comprehensive, and most importantly, strict regulatory system.

A key feature of the new approach is publicity. 28 days before submitting an application, the company must publish a relevant notice in the media. This creates an effect of open access, meaning any interested party — whether a competitor, public organization, or citizen — can submit objections. As a result, the applicant will have no margin for error.

It is also worth noting the strict compliance requirements. The standards for UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) and company management are aligned with the international “fit and proper person test”. This involves not only checking for criminal convictions, but also assessing the reputation, transparency of the capital’s origin, and even the tax history of the individuals involved.

Moreover, the regulator requires that all compliance policies, including AML, KYC, and responsible gaming policies, be implemented at the time of the application submission. Operators will have to invest in legal and organizational infrastructure before launching the project.

There is also a financial threshold: the amount of the licensing fee directly depends on the turnover. This creates a flexible approach for smaller companies, but large international players will pay a premium. Furthermore, the fee is non-refundable, serving as a filter for unprepared applicants.

These changes in the gambling market may bring about several shifts. First, we are likely to see a “clean-up” of smaller and grey operators who cannot meet the new standards. Secondly, a wave of mergers and acquisitions is probable, with large holding companies, experienced in regulation, acquiring Irish assets for a share in the revamped market. And, of course, operational costs will rise — the need for compliance officers, AML specialists, and ongoing legal support will grow.

The primary goal of the regulator is to ensure maximum player protection and control over money flows. Stringent compliance standards and transparency will create a reliable investment climate, likely attracting large strategic investors. At the same time, the market will become less attractive for those who had hoped for a quick and “easy” launch.

Thus, Ireland is betting on maturity and long-term sustainability. The new market architecture is not just a change, but a full transformation of the rules of the game. For those who operate legally, can build compliance systems, and see prospects in strategic markets, this is an opportunity to secure a place in the new structure. For the others — it’s time to seek an exit.