Online bingo is legal in Ireland and now falls under the comprehensive regulatory framework established by the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which was signed into law on October 23, 2024 (2). The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, known as GRAI, became officially operational on March 5, 2025, serving as Ireland's new regulator for gambling, gaming, betting and certain lottery activities (1). The GRAI operates as an independent, self-financing regulator under the remit of the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, with Anne Marie Caulfield serving as Chief Executive Officer (1).
The legislation establishes a modern and streamlined approach to gambling licensing that replaces Ireland's previously fragmented regime, introducing three types of licenses for both in-person and online gambling operations (2). These include Business to Consumer Gaming, Betting and Lottery Licenses, Business to Business Licenses, and Gambling licenses for Charitable or Philanthropic Causes (2). The GRAI has comprehensive responsibilities including licensing, supervision and control of gambling activities, establishing a National Gambling Exclusion Register, imposing obligations on licensees regarding advertising and child protection, monitoring compliance, handling complaints, and taking measures to stop prohibited gambling activities (2).
"Our role is to make sure that gambling is well regulated and fair, that standards are in place and monitored, and that protections are there for those who are most vulnerable, particularly children."
The new legislation implements strict consumer protections including a watershed prohibiting gambling advertising between 5:30 AM and 9:00 PM, prohibition of credit cards and credit facilities for gambling, and establishment of a Social Impact Fund financed by the industry (2). Operators providing gambling activities without proper licenses face up to 8 years imprisonment and fines, while the GRAI can impose administrative financial sanctions up to €20 million or 10% of turnover for non-compliance (2). Ireland's gambling ecosystem has an estimated annual value of €8 billion, with approximately 60% of the population participating in online gambling regularly, making comprehensive regulation essential for protecting vulnerable persons and reducing gambling-related harm (2).
Source:
https://www.grai.ie
https://www.advennt.com/jurisdictions/online-gaming/ireland-republic/
Last updated: 28-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
