Greece proposes 10-year prison terms in sweeping crackdown on illegal gambling

Greece is preparing a major legislative overhaul to combat illegal gambling, according to details reported by Greek City News. The Ministry of National Economy and Finance has drafted a bill that introduces significantly tougher penalties, wider enforcement powers, and stricter licensing rules in response to what officials describe as an increasingly harmful and technologically driven black market.

 Developed with the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP), the bill will allow municipalities to immediately close businesses found to be hosting illegal gambling. Long-term shutdowns and licence revocations would also be possible under the new framework, which aims to strengthen protections for minors and vulnerable groups. The legislation outlines harsher sanctions for operators and participants alike. 

Anyone running games without the required licence will face a minimum prison sentence of three years and a financial penalty. If the games involve gambling, the maximum sentence rises to 10 years, accompanied by fines ranging from €50,000 to €100,000. Individuals who take part in unlicensed gambling will face up to two years in prison and a fine, with repeat offenders subject to at least two years and penalties between €5,000 and €20,000.

Obstructing inspections will also become a serious offence. The draft bill proposes at least three years in prison and a financial penalty for anyone who delays or disrupts inspections by authorised bodies.

Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis said the Government seeks a holistic and modern regulatory framework that addresses illegal gambling “at its root,” whether through unlicensed websites or physical venues. The EEEP already maintains a blacklist of nearly 11,000 illegal providers and cooperates closely with judicial and anti-money laundering authorities.

Research cited in the draft shows the scale of the issue. Kapa Research estimated the illegal gambling market reached €1.67bn in 2023, with state revenue losses reaching €500m. In 2024, around 900,000 Greeks were reported to have wagered €1.7bn through illegal channels, with players spending an average of €1,930 each and 10% aged between 17 and 21.