The Greek Government held an emergency meeting and decided to raise the tax rate on player winnings from online casino games, a move that surprised the industry.
The changes will take effect on 1 July 2026. For winnings between €100 ($115) and €500, the rate will rise from 15% to 20%, while for amounts over €500 it will increase from 20% to 30%. These changes are permanent.
The new tax increase does not impact sports betting. The Government chose to target online casino games because they have higher activity levels in Greece compared to other forms of online gambling.
The initiative is expected to generate an additional €100m in revenue. This funding will support relief measures announced for the April - May period in response to developments in the Middle East.
Crucially, operators are already subject to a 35% tax on GGR
Industry insiders told local media that they understand the Government’s need to support citizens during this period of pressure. Still, they stressed that the decision came as a surprise, as no prior consultation was held with the operators.
They also warned that the measure adds further strain to the sector. Although the tax is formally passed on to players, many providers absorb part of the cost to maintain their customer base.
Crucially, operators are already subject to a 35% tax on GGR. There are also concerns that the increase could push more players toward illegal gambling to avoid taxation.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis convened the emergency meeting with officials from the Ministry of National Economy and Finance and Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis. The Government allegedly chose the gambling sector for intervention because it was seen as carrying minimal political risk.
In February, a bill was proposed in Greece to strengthen the crackdown on illegal gambling and introduce tougher sanctions for violators, including companies, players and influencers who endorse or promote illegal websites.
Meanwhile, the Greek Gaming Commission (EEEP) has recently alerted local operators to the upcoming EU anti-money laundering framework and is helping them prepare through upcoming meetings, presentations and workshops.
The Government expects to collect around €50m from the new tax in the second half of 2026 and €100m annually from 2027 onwards
