TITLE: Ireland's Gambling Regulatory Authority Commences Remote Betting Licences
BODY:
On June 30, 2026, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) commenced remote betting and betting intermediary licences, marking a significant milestone in Ireland's new gambling regulatory regime. The licences, which took effect on July 1, 2026, cover betting services provided online and by other remote means, including telephone betting, as well as intermediaries facilitating remote betting between parties. In-person betting licences will commence later in 2026.
Licensed operators must now comply with strict consumer protection and market integrity obligations under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. These requirements include age verification to prevent underage gambling, obligations to pay out winnings, prohibitions on facilitating credit or accepting credit cards, and requirements to close accounts on request. The GRAI conducts ongoing compliance monitoring and possesses enforcement powers including investigation, significant sanctions, and action against unlicensed or illegal activity.
Anne Marie Caulfield, chief executive of the GRAI, said the licensing application process requires operators to demonstrate they are fit and proper, possess financial capacity to provide gambling activity, and that winnings are funded from lawful means. Caulfield emphasised that unlicensed operators present radically increased harm risks and that operating without a betting licence constitutes a criminal offence. The GRAI has prioritised identifying and tackling unlicensed operators.
The GRAI is rolling out licences on a phased basis. Applications for additional licences covering gaming, lotteries, business-to-business services, and charitable and philanthropic gambling will open throughout 2027 and 2028. Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan said the commencement establishes a clear and robust regulatory regime, strengthening Ireland's reputation as a well-regulated market.