The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has issued comprehensive licensing guidelines, marking another milestone in its efforts to modernise the country’s gambling oversight framework. The newly published guidance aims to help prospective licensees understand the steps required to apply for licences under the updated regime set forth by the Gambling Regulation Act 2024.
Guidance Sets Stage for B2C Licence Applications
In preparation for opening licence applications later this year, the GRAI released detailed instructions for gambling providers looking to operate in Ireland. The guidance specifically addresses operators that will deliver gambling services directly to consumers, whether through physical premises or online platforms. Applications from business-to-consumer (B2C) operators will be prioritised initially, while business-to-business (B2B) providers and charitable organisations can expect to submit applications at a later phase.
While no definitive launch date for the full licensing system has been set, GRAI officials reiterated their goal to begin accepting applications “later this year” and to roll out the fully regulated market by 2026. “We intend to accept online applications for both in-person and remote Business-to-Consumer Betting licences later this year,” the regulator noted. Until then, gambling operators are encouraged to maintain compliance by applying and renewing their licences under existing laws — namely the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 — through the Revenue Commissioners. Lottery licences and permits will continue to be processed by the District Courts and An Garda Síochána until the new structure is fully operational.
A Seven-Step Licensing Process
The guidelines published by the GRAI outline a clear seven-step process for applicants. One of the key requirements is submitting a Notice of Intention at least 28 days before filing a full application, allowing the authority to track upcoming submissions. Applicants are also expected to provide extensive documentation about their ownership structure, beneficial owners, business model, and compliance measures.
After reviewing the application under a risk-based assessment framework, the GRAI will issue a decision notification. Approved licensees must also comply with ongoing obligations, such as promptly reporting any significant changes in ownership or operations.
The GRAI emphasised its readiness to support operators through the application process, inviting queries via its dedicated licensing email. The full guidance document is available on the regulator’s website for operators to review in detail before preparing their applications.
Modernising Ireland’s Gambling Market
The publication of these guidelines follows the GRAI assuming full regulatory responsibilities in March 2025, replacing the long-standing dual oversight provided by the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956. The new licensing system is designed to bring Ireland’s gambling oversight in line with international best practices, ensuring greater transparency and accountability.
Stakeholders have already welcomed earlier clarifications from the GRAI on matters such as the fee structure, licence duration, and the eligibility of EU and other foreign-based businesses to operate in Ireland under the updated rules. Further information for certification laboratories seeking to test gambling products is also expected soon.
The authority, led by President and Chief Executive Marie Ann Caulfield and Chairman Paul Quinn, has been actively laying the groundwork for the new regime. In addition to publishing the licensing guidance, the GRAI has also signed its third Memorandum of Understanding with other European jurisdictions this summer to enhance its regulatory cooperation.
With the application window for B2C operators slated to open later in 2025 and a fully regulated market targeted for 2026, the GRAI is urging operators to stay informed and ensure their documentation is ready in advance.
For those interested, the full guidance and further updates are available directly from the GRAI website.
Source:
Gambling Regulator publishes Licensing Application Guidance, grai.ie, July 10, 2025.
