The Austrian government has finalised a draft law ending the national online gaming monopoly, with the market scheduled to open to multiple operators in October 2027. The legislation introduces a mandatory cooling-off period that will temporarily block grey market companies from obtaining new licenses.
Under the proposed rules, operators that ran illegal services during the 18 months preceding the law’s implementation will face a temporary entry ban. This exclusion window will extend to 24 months starting in 2030. Affected companies must also clear outstanding tax debts and resolve historical player claim rulings before joining the regulated sector.
Industry Response and Licensing Shifts
The Austrian Betting and Gaming Association warns that the entry restrictions could disrupt government channelisation targets and create a temporary void in the legal market before licenses are distributed. Association president Simon Priglinger-Simader stated that the restrictions could "kill" official channelisation efforts, as tax-compliant operators might exit while unregulated providers fill the space.
The licensing hiatus receives backing from land-based monopolist Casinos Austria, whose subsidiary Austrian Lotteries currently holds the exclusive online permit, as well as from Tipico-owned Admiral.
Stake Limits and Player Regulations
The ruling coalition has adjusted financial caps following industry feedback. Slot stake limits will now reach €5 instead of the initially proposed €2, while maximum potential winnings are set at €10,000 with jackpot features allowed. Players face a weekly deposit ceiling of €1,680, and younger users under 26 will operate under tighter controls.
Game mechanics will also be restricted through mandatory session breaks and regulated play speeds.
The reform extends to physical venues, with 13 land-based casino locations available for the upcoming licensing tender under a multi-licensee model. The draft legislation replaces the long-standing single-operator framework that previously concentrated all online gambling rights under one entity.