The Irish online casino licence is the official authorisation issued by the Revenue Commissioners of Ireland under the Betting (Amendment) Act 2015. It governs online betting and casino platforms operating in or targeting players from Ireland, ensuring player protection, fair gaming, and responsible gambling standards are upheld.
To obtain an Irish casino licence, operators must meet strict financial, legal, and technical requirements. The process includes detailed documentation, background checks, and proof of compliance with anti-money laundering and responsible gaming measures. These high standards are designed to ensure that licensed online casinos in Ireland operate transparently and maintain player trust throughout their operations.
List of Irish Licensed Online Casinos - Updated October 2025
The application process for an Irish online casino licence is already strict, and our own review standards go even further. We independently assess each licensed operator to ensure it continues to meet the legal, ethical, and technical requirements set out by the Irish gambling authorities.
Only trusted casinos that hold a valid Irish licence and demonstrate consistent fairness, transparency, and responsible gambling practices appear on our list. We update it regularly so players can make informed decisions and choose from the most reliable licensed casinos available in Ireland.
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The contents of this page are intended for general informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise.
What Is an Irish Gambling Licence?
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is the national body responsible for licensing and regulating legal online casinos and betting operators in Ireland. Established under the Gambling Regulation Act, the Authority was created to modernise and streamline how gambling is licensed and monitored in the country.
A gambling licence in Ireland ensures that operators meet strict standards for player protection, fair play, and responsible gambling. It covers all major forms of online wagering, including casino games, sports betting, and lotteries. The framework also recognises how technology continues to shape gambling behaviour and provides a more adaptive approach to regulation and enforcement.
Online Gambling Laws and Regulations in Ireland
Gambling has long been part of Ireland’s culture, but the arrival of online play and mobile technology has transformed how people place bets and enjoy casino games. The legal landscape has evolved gradually to balance accessibility with responsible oversight.
The Gambling Control Bill of 2013, introduced by Alan Shatter, aimed to modernise and unify Ireland’s gambling legislation across both online and offline sectors. Although it has not yet been enacted, the bill remains central to ongoing regulatory discussions.
To address the rise of online gambling, the Betting (Amendment) Act 2015 updated the outdated Betting Act of 1931, making it mandatory for operators accepting bets from Irish players to obtain an Irish licence and meet taxation obligations.
Today, Irish players can safely enjoy gambling through regulated betting sites, online casinos, and licensed Irish platforms. The 2015 Act prohibits unlicensed operators from offering gambling services to Irish customers and defines three main licence types:
Retail bookmaker licences
Remote betting licences for online operators
Betting intermediary licences for exchanges and facilitators
Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI)
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is the country’s main statutory body overseeing the licensing and regulation of all gambling activities. Established in 2023 under the Department of Justice, the authority is responsible for ensuring fair, safe, and transparent gambling operations both online and offline.
The GRAI’s role includes granting licences, monitoring compliance with Irish gambling laws, and promoting responsible gambling practices across all operators. It also supports player protection through strict enforcement of consumer safeguards and advertising standards.
If you want to learn more about licensed operators or plan to apply for an Irish gambling licence, you can contact the GRAI directly using the details below:
History of Casino Licensing and Gambling Regulation in Ireland
Gambling in Ireland has developed from informal local betting to a fully regulated, modern industry. Each decade has introduced new legislation shaping how both online and land-based operators function today.
Key Moments in Irish Gambling Regulation
1931 Betting Act Introduced Ireland’s first framework for licensed bookmakers and regulated betting activities.
1956 Gaming and Lotteries Act Prohibited commercial casinos but allowed charitable lotteries under controlled conditions.
2013 Gambling Control Bill Proposed a single, modernised law to regulate all forms of gambling. Although not enacted, it remains the foundation for ongoing reform.
2015 Betting (Amendment) Act Legalised and taxed online gambling. Required remote operators accepting Irish players to obtain an Irish licence.
2023 Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) Established as the independent body overseeing all gambling in Ireland. The GRAI manages licensing, compliance, and responsible gambling initiatives such as the National Gambling Exclusion Register and the Social Impact Fund.
Online Gambling vs Land-Based Gambling in Ireland
Online gambling became officially regulated in 2015 under the Betting (Amendment) Act, which allowed operators to obtain Irish licences for offering casino games, sports betting, poker, and bingo online. Since then, players in Ireland have been free to enjoy a wide range of online gaming options from licensed and taxed operators.
Land-based gambling remains more limited. The Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956 restricted most forms of gambling except charitable lotteries, and even today large-scale commercial casinos are not permitted. The Gambling Control Bill of 2013 proposed allowing up to 40 small casinos nationwide, each capped at 15 tables, to prevent large Vegas-style developments.
Horse-racing betting continues to hold a special place in Ireland’s culture, supported by strong domestic regulation and one of the highest numbers of racehorses per capita in the world.
Why Play at Online Casinos Licensed in Ireland
Choosing an online casino licensed in Ireland means playing in one of the most responsibly regulated gambling environments in Europe. The Irish licensing framework enforces strict rules for fairness, transparency, and player protection, ensuring that every licensed operator follows the same high standards.
Casinos regulated under the Irish system must comply with consumer protection laws and responsible gambling requirements overseen by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). This means your deposits are safeguarded, your personal data is protected, and you have access to fair dispute resolution channels. The GRAI’s focus on public safety and responsible gaming provides additional confidence that licensed Irish casinos prioritise the well-being of their players.
Licensed casinos in Ireland meet strict standards for fairness and safety, but many trusted international casinos welcome players from Ireland as well, and follow similar responsible gaming standards.
How to Choose an Online Casino Licensed in Ireland
Finding a reputable and enjoyable casino is easier when you know what to look for. Before you start playing, make sure the site holds a valid licence issued under Ireland’s Gambling Regulation framework. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose a trusted Ireland-licensed online casino:
1
Select a casino
Pick a site that holds an official Irish online casino licence.
2
Read reviews
Check expert and player reviews for fairness and reliability.
3
Check the T&Cs
Understand the rules, bonus terms, and withdrawal limits.
4
Sign up
Register with accurate details to verify your account.
5
Play reponsibly
Enjoy your games safely at a regulated Irish casino.
Requirements for an Irish Online Casino Licence
The requirements for an online casino licence set by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) are strict. Before applying, a company must be legally established and based in Ireland.
All applications are submitted directly to the GRAI. Once approved, the licence covers various forms of gambling activity — including online casinos, sports betting, software providers, white-label operators, affiliates, and iGaming networks.
Key requirements for an Irish gambling licence:
Local presence: The applicant must be registered in Ireland. Foreign companies must appoint a local director or representative.
Bank account: Licensed operators must hold an Irish bank account to process player deposits and withdrawals securely.
Monthly reporting: Licensees must file a monthly declaration of gaming revenue and pay the required regulatory fees to the GRAI.
Compliance and protection: Operators must protect minors and promote responsible gambling, including controlling where and how advertising is displayed.
How to Get a Gambling Licence in Ireland
Once you meet the requirements, you can begin the application process of obtaining a gambling licence in Ireland involves several formal steps managed by the Irish Revenue Commissioners and the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). Each stage ensures that only compliant and transparent operators receive approval to offer betting or gaming services.
Steps to obtain an Irish gambling licence:
Obtain a Certificate of Personal Fitness Begin by securing a Certificate of Personal Fitness. This involves publishing a notice of intent, submitting the application with a tax clearance certificate, and paying the applicable licence fee.
Apply for the licence Once the Certificate of Personal Fitness is granted, submit your official licence application to the Irish Revenue Commissioners. This is required for all betting and gaming operators, including remote (online) services.
Apply for a gaming permit If your operation includes physical premises, you must also apply for a gaming permit through a Garda Superintendent in the district where the gaming will occur.
Meet court certificate requirements Applicants must hold a valid gaming court certificate confirming compliance with Irish gambling laws and operational standards.
Ireland Gambling Licence Cost
The standard application fee for an Irish gambling licence is €10,000. Renewal fees range from €10,000 to €200,000, depending on the operator’s annual turnover and commission earnings.
In addition, remote bookmakers are required to pay a 2% betting duty on all stakes wagered, while remote betting intermediaries pay a 25% betting intermediary duty on their commission revenue.
How to Verify an Irish-Licensed Online Casino
Before registering, make sure the casino you choose holds a valid Irish gambling licence. Legitimate operators clearly display their licence number and issuing authority in the website footer or on an “About” or “Terms” page.
You can confirm this information through the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) or the official Citizens Information website. When verifying a licence, check that:
The operator’s name matches the one listed on the licence
The licence number is valid and current
The casino lists a registered business address or contact details in Ireland
If a site does not display this information, it should not be considered a legitimate Irish-licensed casino.
Compliance and Enforcement in Ireland
All gambling operators targeting Irish players must follow the standards set by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. The GRAI monitors compliance across both online and land-based casinos and has the authority to investigate, fine, or revoke licences for breaches of regulation.
Unlicensed operators may face heavy penalties and be blocked from offering services in Ireland. This system helps maintain player safety, prevents underage gambling, and supports responsible gaming practices.
How the Irish Licence Compares to Other Jurisdictions
Ireland’s gambling licence is known for its focus on player protection and responsible gambling. It is considered more consumer-focused than some offshore licences but less restrictive than those issued by the UK Gambling Commission.
Compared to Malta or Curaçao, the Irish licence offers stronger local accountability and clearer consumer safeguards. For players, this means better protection and easier dispute resolution with locally regulated casinos.
FAQ
How do you get an online casino licence in Ireland?
To get an online casino licence in Ireland, you must apply through the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). The process involves submitting business and financial documentation, proof of compliance with responsible gambling standards, and payment of the application fee.
What types of licences are available in Ireland?
The GRAI issues several types of gambling licences, including remote licences for online casinos and betting platforms, as well as land-based licences for betting shops, gaming arcades, and casino venues. There are also supplier and software provider licences for B2B companies supporting the gambling sector.
How much does it cost to obtain a gambling licence in Ireland?
The initial fee for an Irish gambling licence is €10,000. Renewal fees range from €10,000 to €200,000, depending on the operator’s turnover. Remote bookmakers also pay a 2% betting duty on stakes, while betting intermediaries pay 25% on commission earnings.
How long does it take to get a gambling licence in Ireland?
The approval process usually takes between two and three months, depending on the completeness of the application and the licence type. In some cases, the decision can be made within 28 days if all documents are in order.
Are online casinos licensed in Ireland safe to play at?
Yes. Irish-licensed casinos are regulated by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland and must follow strict rules for fairness, data protection, and responsible gambling. This ensures that players’ funds and personal information are secure.
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