Date: 14.01.2025

by Adam Dworak

Lithuania Tightens Gambling Regulations with New Bank Controls

Lithuania is stepping up its fight against illegal gambling with new measures that involve national and foreign banks in monitoring and restricting unauthorized activities. As of July 2025, stricter regulations will also include a raised gambling age and potential tax increases for operators.

Banks to Monitor Gambling Transactions

The Seimas of Lithuania is set to vote on a proposal that mandates all banks licensed by the Bank of Lithuania to oversee gambling transactions.

These measures aim to curb illegal gambling activities by requiring banks to block payments to unauthorized operators listed on the Gambling Control Authority’s (LPT) blacklist.

Under the proposed legislation, banks must report all gambling-related transactions directly to the LPT.

They will also be required to terminate payments to illegal operators within 24 hours of receiving a directive. Failure to comply could result in fines ranging from €1,800 to €3,800 for initial violations, increasing to €6,000 for repeat offences.

Combatting Illegal Gambling

Illegal online gambling accounted for an estimated 15% (€18 million) of Lithuania’s gambling market in 2021.

The government sees the new controls as a necessary step to address these losses, which also include approximately €2 million in uncollected taxes annually.

The LPT has already banned 1,600 gambling websites and views direct involvement of banks as the most effective way to tackle the black market.

The proposed measures reflect the Seimas’ ongoing commitment to regulating gambling more effectively.

Stricter Age Restrictions and Venue Controls

In a significant policy shift, Lithuania will raise the legal gambling age from 18 to 21 starting in July 2025.

The restriction will apply to both land-based and online gambling, with national lottery draws being the only exception.

Additionally, amendments approved in 2024 introduced centralized controls for gambling venues.

These require venues to employ LPT-trained staff responsible for monitoring gambling behavior.

The staff will have the authority to suspend gambling activities for individuals exhibiting irresponsible behavior for up to 48 hours.

Potential Tax Reforms for 2025

Lithuania’s gambling sector may also face higher taxes under a proposed framework by the Ministry of Finance.

The suggested tax rate on slots, casino games, and online gambling would increase to 22%.

The amendments are currently under review by the European Commission to ensure compliance with competition laws.