The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has published detailed guidance for licence applications from both Business-to-Consumer (B2C) and Business-to-Business (B2B) operators aiming to participate in the country’s newly reformed gambling market.
Since becoming operational in March, the GRAI has already engaged with prospective applicants through a public consultation process following its call for expressions of interest. The regulator plans to officially open the licensing window in the second half of 2025, with the fully regulated market expected to launch in 2026.
In the interim, businesses are urged to remain compliant with existing legislation. Operators may continue to apply for or renew licences via the Revenue Commissioners under the current frameworks of the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956.
The GRAI also clarified that, for now, applications for lottery permits and licences will continue to be reviewed by the District Courts and An Garda Síochána until new licensing structures are implemented.
Responding to industry queries, the regulator has outlined its stance on licence duration, fee schedules, and eligibility requirements, including criteria for foreign and EU-based applicants. A structured, seven-step licensing pathway has also been introduced. Notably, all applicants must publish a formal Notice of Intention at least 28 days before submitting their application.
The GRAI emphasised that all submissions will undergo a rigorous, risk-based assessment. Applicants will be required to disclose full ownership details—covering beneficial owners, executive officers, and the business model. Once licensed, operators must report any material changes to ownership, operations, or regulatory status.
Businesses are encouraged to begin gathering the necessary documentation and to monitor GRAI communications for updates and milestone announcements.
