Gambling regulation in Georgia explained: licences, regulator and what changes next
Regulation
Online casino and betting are licensed by the Revenue Service; since 2022 the country has some of the region's strictest player and advertising rules.
Licensing Authority and Scope
The Revenue Service holds exclusive authority over licensing for online casino and betting activities in Georgia. This body operates under the Ministry of Finance, centralizing regulatory oversight within the government's fiscal structure. Operators must align their compliance strategies with this specific entity rather than seeking approval from independent agencies. The framework distinguishes itself by integrating gambling oversight directly into tax administration processes. Suppliers and affiliates should note that this consolidation affects how licenses are issued and monitored. The system prioritizes fiscal compliance alongside operational standards, creating a unified point of contact for regulatory inquiries. Understanding this hierarchy is essential for navigating the local market efficiently. Details are available in the regulation tracker.
| Product | Status |
|---|---|
| Online casino | licensed |
| Sports betting | licensed |
| Online poker | licensed |
| Lottery | a state monopoly |
Strict Player and Advertising Rules
Reforms implemented in recent years established some of the region's strictest standards for player eligibility and marketing. The minimum gambling age for Georgian citizens was raised, significantly narrowing the eligible demographic compared to neighboring jurisdictions. Concurrently, most forms of gambling advertising were banned, limiting visibility for operators within the domestic market. These measures reflect a deliberate policy choice to restrict access and promotional activity. Operators serving local players must adjust their acquisition strategies to accommodate these constraints. The table above summarizes the current status of products under this regulatory framework, highlighting the specific categories subject to these rules.
Product Status Overview
The table above categorizes gambling products based on their licensing status under the Revenue Service. It clarifies which activities fall under standard licensing versus those subject to specific restrictions or bans. This distinction helps operators determine which services require separate permits or face additional hurdles. The classification ensures clarity on what can be offered to domestic versus international audiences. By referencing the table, stakeholders can quickly identify compliance requirements for specific product lines. This structured approach reduces ambiguity when planning market entry or expanding service offerings within Georgia's regulatory environment.
New Permit Structure for Foreign Players
The government recently proposed a distinct permit category for operators serving exclusively foreign players. This development aims to differentiate between domestic and international service models, potentially offering more flexibility for cross-border operators. The proposal suggests a tailored regulatory approach that acknowledges the different needs of foreign-facing businesses. Operators focusing on international markets may find this structure more adaptable than the standard licensing regime. This shift indicates a willingness to refine regulations based on operational scope. Industry participants should monitor how this permit integrates with existing Revenue Service protocols to ensure seamless compliance.
Questions
Who licenses gambling operators in Georgia?
The Revenue Service, operating under the Ministry of Finance, holds exclusive licensing authority for online casino and betting activities. This centralizes regulatory oversight within the government's fiscal administration rather than independent agencies.
What age restrictions apply to Georgian citizens?
Recent reforms raised the minimum gambling age for Georgian citizens. This limit is stricter than many neighboring jurisdictions and applies specifically to domestic players.
How does the new permit affect international operators?
The proposed permit allows operators serving only foreign players to operate under a distinct regulatory category. This aims to provide flexibility for cross-border services separate from domestic licensing requirements.
Every figure on this page is computed by code from standard industry formulas and the facts of our regulation tracker, each checked a second way. See the methodology.