The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 is the most significant reform of Irish gambling law in decades. For most of the period since online betting became widespread, Ireland had no dedicated gambling regulator and no comprehensive licensing framework for online operators. The 2024 Act changes that — but its immediate impact on Irish players using foreign bookmakers is more limited than media coverage sometimes suggests. Here is what the Act actually does, and what it means for you in 2026.
Background and Context
Prior to 2024, Irish gambling regulation was fragmented and outdated. The primary legislation dated from the 1950s and was designed for betting shops, not online platforms. Online betting had been operating in Ireland under a patchwork of arrangements — some operators held Irish licences under the Betting Acts, but many foreign bookmakers accessible to Irish players operated purely under their home country's licence (Malta, Gibraltar, Isle of Man) without any specific Irish authorisation.
This was not illegal — EU freedom of services rules mean that a legally licensed operator in one EU member state can offer services across the EU. But it left Irish players without the consumer protections that a modern regulatory framework would provide, and left the Irish state with limited tools to enforce responsible gambling standards.
Key Provisions
The key elements of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 are:
Irish Gambling Commission: The centrepiece of the Act is the establishment of a dedicated, independent regulatory body for gambling in Ireland. The Commission has powers to license operators, investigate breaches, impose penalties, and set standards for responsible gambling. It replaces the Revenue Commissioners' role in licensing under the old Betting Acts.
New licensing framework: Online operators wishing to legally offer services to Irish customers will need to hold an Irish licence (in addition to, or eventually instead of, relying solely on EU passporting). This is being phased in, and operators with existing EU licences have a transition period.
Responsible gambling obligations: The Act introduces mandatory deposit limits, self-exclusion tools, and restrictions on marketing to vulnerable individuals. Operators must provide enhanced player protection tools, and there are new requirements around bonus terms and advertising content.
Advertising restrictions: Gambling advertising is subject to tighter rules, particularly restrictions on when and how gambling can be marketed, and prohibitions on targeting younger audiences.
Impact on Foreign Betting
For Irish players using MGA-licensed foreign bookmakers, the practical impact of the 2024 Act in its current phase is indirect. Foreign operators have not been immediately banned or blocked — the Commission is still establishing itself and the full licensing framework is being phased in.
The longer-term trajectory is that foreign operators wishing to continue targeting Irish customers will likely need to obtain an Irish licence or comply with the Commission's requirements. Operators that choose not to engage with the Irish framework may face restrictions. However, this process takes time, and the EU legal framework means that outright blocking of EU-licensed operators would require specific justification.
The net effect for players is likely positive over time: more operators subject to Irish consumer protection standards, clearer recourse if disputes arise, and enhanced responsible gambling tools. Players using foreign sites today should continue to choose operators with strong EU licences (MGA in particular) as these will be best placed to meet Irish requirements.
Related Pages
- Is It Legal to Use Foreign Betting Sites in Ireland? — full legal overview
- Irish Gambling Commission Explained — what the new regulator does
- EU vs Irish Bookmakers — key regulatory differences
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gambling Regulation Act 2024?
The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 is Irish legislation that overhauls the country's gambling framework for the first time in decades. Its central measure is the establishment of the Irish Gambling Commission, a dedicated independent regulator. The Act also introduces new operator licensing requirements, advertising restrictions, and enhanced responsible gambling obligations.
Does the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 ban foreign betting sites in Ireland?
No. The Act regulates gambling operators, not players. There is no provision that criminalises Irish players for using foreign bookmakers that are legally licensed elsewhere in the EU. Access to foreign sites operating under MGA or similar licences remains legal for Irish players.
When does the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 come into force?
The Act was signed into law in 2024. Different provisions are being commenced at different times as the Irish Gambling Commission becomes operational. The full licensing and enforcement framework is being phased in over 2024 and 2025. Check the Gambling Control Authority website for the latest implementation updates.
What is the Irish Gambling Commission?
The Irish Gambling Commission (established under the 2024 Act) is the new independent body responsible for regulating gambling in Ireland. It will license operators, enforce compliance with the Act, oversee responsible gambling standards, and provide a framework for player protections. It replaces the fragmented approach that preceded it.