Crypto Casino
Torrent Gear
The possibility of licensed casinos
Article volumetric text
1) Context: Why the topic became relevant
In 2024, Ireland adopted the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which creates a single gambling regulator - GRAI - and lays the foundation for licensing bets, games (including casino content) and lotteries both online and in person. The regulator was established on a legal basis in March 2025 and published a three-year strategy for 2025-2027.
2) What is already known about timings (input phase)
GRAI declares the phased launch of licensing. According to the CEO of the regulator, by the end of 2025 it was planned to open licenses for betting (online and offline), online gaming - at the beginning of 2026, and further types of licenses - in stages until 2027. This is important because "gaming" in the new box covers casino games; In parallel, a loop of in-person (terrestrial) gaming licenses is formed.
3) How it relates to "realities on earth"
Historically, Ireland lacked classic commercial casinos; there were private clubs ("private members" clubs") that provided casino games under previous acts. The new system is aimed at centralized licensing and supervision of all forms of gambling, including casino-style gaming (remotely and in person), with uniform standards of consumer protection.
4) What kind of licenses are expected
Remote (online) gaming license. Mode for operators of online casinos, live games, etc.; the start of the application window is expected in conjunction with the early 2026 guidelines.
In-person (ground) gaming license. The right to host games in one or more visitor facilities on site is the actual basis for legal land-based casinos/gambling halls, subject to GRAI requirements.
B2B licenses. For platforms, content providers, payment and other services (audits, technical security).
5) Requirements and red lines
Consumer protection and RG. Deposit/time limits, reality check, timeout/self-exclusion, age verification, transparent complaints - from recommendation practices to mandatory license conditions.
Advertising. Enhanced control of content, targeting and temporary "watersheds"; stimulus constraints.
KYC/AML and affordability. Age/identity checks, sources of funds when raising limits, risk escalation scenarios.
Technical requirements. Event logs, data security, infrastructure resilience; in-person - room standards, access control and critical messages.
6) Possible ground project models
"Urban local casinos" of a small format integrated into cultural and entertainment clusters (strict entry control, RG content "by default").
Gaming halls + restaurant/stage associated with tourist events (festivals, races, concerts).
Hybrid with a hotel ("resort-light") - subject to urban planning approvals and advertising requirements.
The feasibility of each model will depend on GRAI's bylaws, local approvals and actual license terms.
7) Economy and impact on tourism/employment
Licensed casinos can strengthen the night economy, provide jobs (hall operators, security, F&B, events), and expand the travel package (along with horse racing, music and gastronomy). At the same time, strict RG and advertising standards reduce the risks of social harm and support "safe" tourism. (The total vector is confirmed by the GRAI strategy for 2025-2027.)
8) Risks and how to manage them
Social risks: the growth of problem play → mandatory self-control tools, research/assistance fund, reporting.
Reputational: conflict with the local community → transparent consultations, "youth-safe" communications, advertising restrictions.
Operational: compliance with technical requirements and inspections → system audit, personnel training, digital-first reporting.
9) What to do business now (checklist)
1. Map the license type (remote/in-person/B2B) and prepare gap analysis using RG/KYC/AML/technique.
2. Prepare a package: financial resilience, safety policies, training plans and crisis procedures for complaints/incidents.
3. Advertising and sponsorships: revise layouts and tone-to-tone with future restrictions.
4. Community/ESG: Dialogue with the district, plans for employment, accessibility and inclusion.
10) What it means for players
More transparency and protection: uniform RG standards online and on the ground, understandable complaints and returns.
More honest advertising and noticeable age restrictions.
Transition from "club grey area" to official licensed halls with verifiable procedures.
11) Roadmap: Landmarks 2025-2027
2025: GRAI establishment, launch of first oversight processes; licensing advice.
Early 2026: window for online gaming (including online casinos); publication of practical guides and requirements for applicants.
2026-2027: License scaling, including in-person gaming, full operational maturity, and enforcement.
Editorial templates (substitute facts for layout)
Table A - License Types and Status
Table B - Casino RG Minimum
Table C - City Benefits/Risks
TL; DR
With the advent of GRAI, Ireland is moving to a single and strict gambling licensing regime. Online casinos are expected in 2026 as part of "remote gaming," and licensing of ground games (in-person gaming) - in stages until 2027. This opens up the possibility of officially licensed casinos, but with strict requirements for RG, advertising, KYC/AML and technical security. For business - time to prepare dossiers and audit processes; for players, more protection and transparency.