Croatia to Enforce Stricter Gambling Laws by 2026

New Gambling Law to Take Full Effect by 2026

The Croatian government has introduced a comprehensive overhaul of its gambling laws, with new measures aimed at reducing addiction, restricting advertising, and increasing taxes on winnings and operator fees. The reforms, set to be fully implemented by early 2026, mark a significant shift in the country’s regulatory approach.

The initiative, backed by the Croatian Institute of Public Health and government officials, comes in response to growing concerns about problem gambling. Data shows that 73% of high school students have gambled at least once, with 13% displaying signs of gambling-related harm. Among adults, approximately 5% suffer from gambling disorders.

Mandatory Player Identification and Self-Exclusion Scheme

A key aspect of the reform is the introduction of a centralized player identification system for all gambling venues and online platforms. This system will allow authorities to monitor gambling activity and enforce stricter player protections.

Additionally, Croatia will launch a national self-exclusion scheme by 2026, enabling individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling activities. The directive mandates that the scheme be operational within 190 days.

Stricter Advertising Controls

To reduce gambling exposure, the government will enforce a ban on gambling advertisements on television, radio, and media platforms between 6 AM and 11 PM. Operators will also be required to ensure that online ads are not displayed to underage audiences.

Further restrictions include:

• A ban on celebrity endorsements – Athletes, social media influencers, and public figures will no longer be allowed to promote gambling brands.
• A ban on gambling promotions in public spaces – Advertising in newspapers, magazines, and outdoor billboards will be heavily restricted.

Authorities believe these measures will limit gambling normalization and protect vulnerable consumers from excessive exposure.

Tighter Controls on Gambling Venues

The government will implement stricter location regulations for gambling establishments. From 2026, all betting shops and gaming halls must maintain a minimum distance of 500 meters from schools and religious buildings. Betting shops must also be at least 200 meters apart.

Additionally, self-service betting terminals will be banned from restaurants, cafes, and other public venues to reduce accessibility.

The new location restrictions could force 50–60% of betting shops to relocate or shut down once their existing hosting rights expire in 2025.

Progressive Taxation and Increased Licensing Fees

The current tax system, in place since 2010, will be replaced with a progressive tax structure based on winnings:

• 10% for winnings up to €1,500
• 15% for winnings between €1,500 and €4,000
• 20% for winnings between €4,000 and €70,000
• 30% for winnings over €70,000

Licensing fees for operators will also increase:

• Land-based casinos: from €400,000 to €600,000
• Online casinos: from €265,445 to €398,168
• Land-based betting shops: from €132,722 to €200,000

Approximately 11% of gambling revenue will be allocated to addiction prevention and treatment, with the remaining funds supporting sports, education, and social initiatives.

New Regulatory Oversight

To ensure compliance, the government will establish a dedicated regulatory agency responsible for monitoring land-based and online gambling operations. Operators failing to meet the new requirements risk losing their licenses and facing multi-million euro fines.

The new regulations are expected to result in a 10–15% reduction in gambling venues across Croatia. At the same time, increased taxes and fees could generate an additional €50–70 million annually, which will be reinvested into public health programs and responsible gambling initiatives.