Ireland’s Gambling Market Expands as Regulator Opens Licensing

The GRAI isn’t wasting any time. The regulator is inviting gambling operators and service providers to register their interest through an early-stage survey. This move helps the authority understand the scope of the market while building a contact list and preparing a streamlined process for when applications officially open. It’s not a full application yet but it’s the first step in what’s shaping up to be a very busy few years for the Irish gambling industry.

According to Anne-Marie Caulfield, CEO of the GRAI, licensing is the immediate focus. The first licences expected to roll out will cover both online and in-person betting, with applications for those anticipated by the end of 2025. Online gaming will follow in early 2026, and a full suite of gambling licences is expected to be in place by 2027. It’s a phased approach, but one with clear direction.

Once in full swing, the licensing system will include three main categories. Business-to-Consumer (B2C) licences will apply to services like online betting and lotteries. Business-to-Business (B2B) licences are for those supplying the tech, odds, and machinery behind the scenes. There’s also a specific charity licence for philanthropic gaming, although that won’t be available under the new system until later—charities can continue using the current permit model for now.

But the GRAI isn’t just handing out licences without scrutiny. The new regime will include corporate and technical checks to ensure that only stable and responsible operators enter the market. It’s a clear sign that Ireland is aiming for a safer, better-regulated gambling environment.

With a structured rollout and strong compliance measures in place, Ireland’s gambling sector is heading into a new era, and one focused on both opportunity and accountability and of course responsible gambling practises all throughout.