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Online gambling legalized in 2021
2021 was a turning point for the Greek gambling sector - it was then that the country officially legalized online gambling, ending almost a decade of temporary regulation. A new licensing system, strict oversight and digital transparency have made Greece one of the most progressive iGaming markets in Southern Europe.
1) Prerequisites for legalization
Until 2021, the online gambling market in Greece was in a "transitional status": temporary permits (provisional licenses) were in effect since 2011.
Over the course of a decade, the government tested different models of control while studying the European experience (Malta, Denmark, Italy).
The decisive step was taken in 2019 - parliament approved amendments to Law 4002/2011, but their entry into force was postponed until 2021 to allow time for operators to adapt.
2) New legal regime 2021
Since July 2021, online gambling in Greece has become completely legal with a license from the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP).
Two categories of licenses were introduced:1. Online Betting License - for betting and fantasy sports;
2. Online Casino License - for RNG games, poker, roulette, live games.
Licenses are issued for a period of 7 years, after which a second audit is required.
All platforms are required to conduct online reporting and use certified software that complies with GLI or BMM Testlabs standards.
3) The emergence of new players
After the legalization of 2021, the market quickly opened for leading international brands:- Bet365, PokerStars, Kaizen Gaming (Stoiximan/Betano), Bwin, Winmasters, Interwetten - received official EEEP licenses.
- Local operators appeared, working on the basis of Greek legal entities and focused on the national market.
- A new sector has formed in the country - iGaming IT and outsourcing: hundreds of specialists serve operators from Greece and the EU.
4) Economic effect
By 2023, the turnover of the online sector exceeded €1.5 billion GGR.
The state receives 35% tax from GGR, which ensures sustainable budget revenues.
Online gambling has become an important part of the digital economy and creates thousands of jobs - from support to data analytics.
Greece has strengthened its position as a regional licensing and hosting center for iGaming companies.
5) Control and protection of players
All licensed operators are required to comply with the principles of Responsible Gaming:- deposit and time limits;
- the possibility of self-exclusion;
- age and personality verification (KYC).
- A centralized rate monitoring system integrated with EEEP has been introduced.
- The regulator publishes a register of illegal sites, regularly blocking unauthorized resources.
6) Technical and marketing standards
Operators are required to store game data on servers located in the EU.
Gambling adverts are only allowed with 18 + markings and a risk warning.
Aggressive promotional campaigns and "guaranteed winnings" are prohibited.
All bonuses must have transparent conditions and limited wagering limits.
7) Market and player reaction
After legalization, user confidence has skyrocketed - more than 80% of players now choose licensed sites.
The tourism sector has received a boost, with many resorts integrating offline casinos with online platforms through single loyalty programs.
Interest in live games and sports betting has increased, especially during major events (Euros, Olympics, eSports championships).
8) International importance
The legalization of 2021 brought Greece to the top 10 European iGaming jurisdictions in terms of transparency and tax stability.
EEEP became a full member of GREF (Gaming Regulators European Forum), and Greek licenses are recognized as reliable at the EU level.
Greece's model is often seen as an example of "smart regulation": strict supervision without excessive barriers to business.
9) Forecast 2025-2030
Increase in the number of licensed operators (up to 40-45).
Market growth to €3-3.5 billion GGR by 2030.
Implementation of AI monitoring for RG and anti-fraud systems.
Expansion of mobile live games and omnichannel solutions (single wallet offline + online).
Export of Greek IT solutions and content for iGaming.
The legalization of online gambling in 2021 was a historic reform for Greece. It transformed the country from a semi-closed market into a technologically mature, safe and profitable jurisdiction. Today, Greece is demonstrating that strict regulation, Responsible Gaming and digital investments can create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both players and the state. By 2030, it has every chance of becoming the leading iGaming hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.