Russia’s self-exclusion register will begin operating on 1 September 2026.
This follows amendments to the charter of the public-law company Unified Gambling Regulator, enacted by government decree.
The regulator will commission the software needed to maintain the register and, in coordination with the Federal Tax Service, set the rules for how gambling operators can access it.
In December 2025, President Vladimir Putin signed a law introducing a mechanism for voluntary self-exclusion from gambling.
The rules apply to bookmakers, totalisators, casinos and gaming halls. They cover both land-based and online establishments.
Once included in the register, individuals will be blocked from placing bets or participating in gambling activities at any registered venue or platform.
Individuals on the self-exclusion list are also prohibited from receiving gambling-related advertising or informational messages.
The law places additional obligations on gambling operators. They must provide players with information on their official websites about how to register.
The operators must also develop internal responsible gaming policies regarding the voluntary self-exclusion process.
Under the law, citizens can opt out of gambling by submitting an application to the Unified Gambling Regulator.
Applications must be made exclusively through the Gosuslugi portal and must specify the duration of the ban, which must be at least 12 months. The ban cannot be revoked before this period expires.
Gosuslugi is a Russian government platform providing online access to information and application forms for state and municipal services.
By allowing individuals to voluntarily limit their participation and ensuring operators adhere to clear rules and responsible gaming practices, the law seeks to create a safer gambling environment.
The Russian State Duma has recently approved a bill in its first reading that would ban bookmakers and totalizators from accepting credit card bets
