Greece has launched a public consultation on a draft legislation to strengthen measures against illegal gambling. The proposals introduce tougher penalties, expanded enforcement powers and higher financial sanctions for both operators and individuals.
The legislation, submitted by the Ministry of Finance, remains open for consultation until 15 June 2026 and forms part of a wider multi-bill covering taxation and public spending measures.
Under the legislation, the role and responsibilities of the Gaming Supervision and Control Committee (GSC) are strengthened, allowing it to order the immediate removal of illegal online content. The regulator’s staffing would also increase from 80 to 110 positions.
The Gaming Inspectors Corps would be upgraded, with members granted special investigative authority to pursue criminal offences linked to illegal gambling activity.
Measures to tackle illegal online activity would include the creation of a blacklist of unlicensed gambling providers and blocking access to their domains. It would also introduce administrative sanctions for internet providers and advertisers linked to the illegal organisation and operation of games.
Advertising violations are specifically targeted, with influencers, affiliates, streamers and digital networks facing fines of up to €50,000 per breach.
Further provisions allow for the temporary closure of land-based premises for up to one year and licence revocations by municipalities where illegal gambling activity is detected.
The draft also introduces strict criminal penalties. Illegal gambling offences could carry prison sentences of up to 10 years alongside fines of up to €700,000. Higher penalties would apply where offences are carried out on a commercial scale, involve minors or take place in premises repeatedly operating without a licence.
The Greek government will raise taxes on online casino player winnings from 1 July 2026, with new rates set at 20% for winnings between €100 ($115) and €500 and 30% for winnings above €500
