For centuries, various forms of gambling have been legal in Ireland, giving Irish players and bettors the freedom to enjoy themselves in a regulated environment. Thanks to its rich culture and beautiful scenery, Ireland is a popular tourist destination. The ease of enjoying casino entertainment also contributes to the country’s popularity.
Whether you are visiting Ireland or live there, you can legally enjoy several forms of gambling. However, to ensure you know what you are doing, it is recommended that you become familiar with the laws and regulations that shape the gambling scene in Ireland.
In addition to legalizing different forms of gambling, Ireland is striving to improve the industry and modernize its laws. The latest amendment to the Gaming and Lotteries Act in 2019 provided much-needed clarity regarding terms and regulations. This has helped regulate the gambling industry more effectively and provide a secure environment for gambling enthusiasts in Ireland.
Gambling Legislation in Ireland
Gambling in Ireland has a long history, dating back to the 17th century when the British conquered the island. At first horse racing became extremely popular, and it was soon followed by games such as roulette and blackjack. It was not until the 20th century that gambling in Ireland became seriously regulated.
Irish independence also kick-started the regulation of gambling. In 1926 the Betting Act was introduced and three years later, in 1929, the Totalisator Act was passed. In 1930 the Betting Act was revised, but the most important law was enacted after World War II. In 1956 the Gaming and Lotteries Act was passed. Together with the Betting Act, it shaped the legislative framework for gambling in Ireland.
The Gaming and Lotteries Act states that commercial casinos are illegal and may not operate in Ireland. That said, a loophole remained. Members-only gambling clubs are legally operating in Ireland because no law prohibits such establishments. About 14 of these facilities exist and they offer members roulette, blackjack, slots, and other casino games. To bet real money on the games offered at these clubs, you must become a member. Once you join, you can legally participate in any gambling offered at the facility. Joining a private club is free and is required solely so you can legally bet on the games provided at these mini-casinos.
Sports betting is also legal in Ireland, and horse racing still generates a large share of the country’s gambling revenue. In the past, Irish bettors could wager only at licensed local bookmakers or at counters located at racecourses. However, amendments to the Betting Act in 2015 also legalized offshore sportsbooks. As long as they obtain a license, sportsbooks based outside Ireland can offer Irish bettors odds on different sporting events. Regarding lottery games, Irish residents can play three lottery variants, all hosted by the Irish National Lottery. These include Lotto, EuroMillions, and Daily Million. Players can also purchase scratch cards, enter raffles, and play TV bingo, all of which are run by the National Lottery in Ireland.
Online Gambling in Ireland
Although land-based casinos are technically not legal in Ireland, you can legally play slots, roulette, blackjack, poker, and other casino games online. Like online sportsbooks, online casinos were legalized in Ireland over the last decade, allowing players to bet on their favorite games without worrying about the law.
Both local and offshore casino operators may offer games to Irish players, provided they are fully licensed by authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. Currently, Ireland lacks a central regulatory body, but creating one is among the industry’s future goals. Even so, Irish players can already choose from a good selection of licensed and trustworthy online casinos.
The Future of the Gambling Industry in Ireland
While Ireland has legalized numerous forms of gambling, the government recognizes that the existing laws need updates to keep pace with the industry. Since 2013 several bills have been introduced that aim to modernize the regulatory framework. Key objectives include legalizing land-based casinos and creating a regulatory body authorized to issue licenses to local and offshore operators that want to offer casino games and sports betting to Irish players.
Another anticipated change is setting a uniform legal gambling age of 18 for all activities. The proposed bills also seek to upgrade the licensing systems for online casinos and sportsbooks. Although the latest version of the Gaming and Lotteries Act was passed at the end of 2019, further modernizations have yet to be implemented.
Popular Banking Solutions
When Irish players gamble online, they must ensure they can manage deposits and withdrawals with ease. Because they may legally play at both local and offshore licensed casinos, they can choose from many trustworthy websites. These sites accept diverse payment solutions that provide fast, secure, and hassle-free transactions.
Common options include credit or debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid cards, bank transfers, and several other methods. Regardless of the banking solution you prefer, you can quickly handle both your deposits and withdrawals at Ireland-friendly online casinos.
Before selecting a payment method, review the limits and processing times attached to each option. Doing so will help you pick the solution that best fits your needs.
Credit/Debit Cards
E-wallets
Prepaid Cards
Cryptocurrencies
Bank TransferCredit/Debit Cards
One of the simplest ways to fund your account at an Ireland-friendly online casino is with a credit or debit card. You can use cards issued by major companies like Visa and Mastercard. Minimum deposits vary by casino but usually start around €10. Deposits made with credit or debit cards are typically processed instantly and are not subject to casino fees.
Before making your first payment, you will be asked to provide your card details. These include the cardholder name, card number, expiration date, and the CVV code on the back. Ensure the cardholder name matches the name on your casino account.
After submitting your information the casino may offer to save the details, allowing you to make future payments without re-entering them. Leading casinos employ the latest security technology to protect your data, and card-issuing companies add their own security layers.
Most online casinos also let Irish players withdraw winnings to the same credit or debit card used for deposits. Once the casino approves the request, the transaction is usually processed within 24 hours though it may take a few extra days to appear in your account.
E-wallets
Another popular payment method for Irish players is the e-wallet. Services like Neteller, Skrill, and PayPal are often available for both deposits and withdrawals. As with cards, the minimum deposit is usually around €10, although this can vary by casino.
A major advantage of e-wallets is that you do not need to share card or banking details when making a transaction. Instead, you simply sign in to the e-wallet account you have already created. This makes payments more secure and gives players peace of mind.
Setting up an e-wallet is quick, and you can fund it through several channels. Compare the fees charged by each service and choose the one that best suits you. Regardless of the provider, you should have no trouble finding a reputable online casino that accepts it.
If you handle your casino payments through an e-wallet you will benefit from lightning-fast processing. Deposits and withdrawals are typically instant, and most casinos do not charge any fees.
Prepaid Cards
Most Ireland-friendly online casinos also accept prepaid cards. This secure, easy-to-use option is popular with many players. The most widely accepted prepaid card is paysafecard, which enables instant deposits without requiring you to share sensitive information or log in to an account.
Prepaid cards generally support only small deposits, typically starting at about €10. Using paysafecard incurs no fees and lets you top up your account instantly. However, prepaid cards cannot be used for withdrawals, so you will need an alternative method to cash out your winnings.
Cryptocurrencies
Many online casinos now let Irish players make payments with various cryptocurrencies. This option is popular because it offers highly secure transactions without exposing sensitive information. The most commonly used cryptocurrency is Bitcoin, and it is accepted at numerous Ireland-friendly casinos.
Cryptocurrencies allow you to top up your account instantly, and withdrawals are also processed immediately once the casino approves the request. Using Bitcoin or other digital coins is straightforward, and payments usually incur no extra charges. Minimum deposits vary by casino, starting at about €10 and rising to the site’s maximum limit.
Bank Transfer
Some online casinos allow Irish players to deposit or withdraw funds through their trusted banking institutions. While this method is secure and familiar, it has several drawbacks that may make it less appealing for casino transactions.
Frequently, the minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts are higher when you use a bank transfer. Transactions also take longer to process, meaning you might wait hours or even days before you can play or receive your winnings.
In addition to the extended processing time, bank transfers can incur additional withdrawal fees. These charges vary by bank, so consider them carefully when selecting a cash-out option.
Bonuses Available to Irish Players
As noted earlier, Irish players can enjoy a wide range of casino games at licensed online casinos. What makes the experience even better is access to various promotions that can be redeemed at different stages of your gaming journey.
Although bonuses are appealing, always consider whether an offer is truly worth claiming. Before you accept any promotion, carefully read the terms and conditions. Doing so will help you determine whether you can meet the requirements and whether the bonus provides real value.
Available promotions vary by casino, and you may claim different offers depending on your player status. Some bonuses are reserved for newcomers, while others are designed for regular patrons. Either way, Irish players can take advantage of these incentives to enhance their online gaming experience.
No Deposit Bonus
Some online casinos offer a generous incentive to new members even before they make a deposit. These No Deposit Bonuses are provided after you create an account. As the name suggests, this promotion does not require you to deposit funds and is often awarded as free spins.
Although the offer is tempting, exercise caution before claiming it. Because the casino takes a risk by giving away money without a deposit, players usually cannot withdraw winnings immediately. In most cases, winnings from no-deposit free spins must be wagered a set number of times, and there is often a cap on the amount you can cash out after meeting the requirement.
Free spins may also be limited to one or several promotional slots chosen by the casino. Claim a No Deposit Bonus only if you are confident you can satisfy the wagering terms and benefit from the offer.
Welcome Bonus
The most common offer Irish players encounter when they join a new online casino is the Welcome Bonus. This promotion is available only to new members and requires a minimum deposit. Some Welcome Packages consist of several bonuses that apply to your first few deposits.
Welcome Bonuses usually match a percentage of your initial deposit, and many include free spins. Generally, the larger your first deposit, the larger the bonus, although each offer has a maximum cap, so depositing more than that threshold will not increase your reward.
Most Welcome Bonuses come with wagering requirements on the bonus funds before withdrawal is permitted. Some casinos set very high rollover amounts or require you to wager both the deposit and the bonus, making it difficult to cash out.
Winnings from free spins awarded with your first deposit also carry wagering requirements that must be met before they can be withdrawn.
Deposit Bonus
This offer is also very common and resembles the incentives available to new members. Deposit Bonuses are typically awarded to regular players after they have used the Welcome Package. The promotion requires a minimum deposit and usually provides a Match Bonus. For example, if a €50 deposit qualifies you for a 100 percent match, the casino will add another €50 to your account, giving you €100 to play with.
As with most promotions, Deposit Bonuses carry wagering requirements that must be satisfied before you can withdraw. The casino may apply the rollover to the bonus alone or to the combined total of the deposit and bonus. The former is generally more favorable, but in practice both structures can require similar wagering. For instance, 40x the bonus amount and 20x the combined amount result in roughly the same turnover.
Loyalty Schemes
Many online casinos reward their loyal members with exclusive perks reserved for VIP players. Such programs can be very beneficial for Irish players who frequent their favorite sites.
Most loyalty schemes have multiple tiers, each reached after you accumulate a certain number of points. You earn these points by wagering real money on casino games. The higher your tier, the better the perks, which may include exclusive bonuses, higher cashback percentages, birthday gifts, and many other benefits.
General Bonus Terms
1Wagering Requirements
While no-deposit bonuses may not require you to fund your account, they typically come with wagering requirements that must be met before any withdrawal. Deposit bonuses are also often subject to turnover conditions that must be satisfied before you can cash out the bonus. You must complete the wagering requirements before the bonus funds move to your real-money balance, where they can be withdrawn.
2Expiration Time and Bet Maximum
Keep in mind that, in most cases, there is a limited period in which you must meet the bonus wagering requirements. In addition, there is often a maximum bet you must not exceed while wagering bonus funds. If you fail to satisfy the requirements within the promotional period, or if you place bets above the permitted maximum, the bonus can be forfeited. Many casinos do allow you to request a withdrawal before completing the wagering, but doing so typically causes the bonus to be removed from your account.
3Game Contribution
It is also important to read the full bonus terms at your chosen casino. Different casino games often contribute differently toward the wagering requirements. This means the same bet may count more or less toward the rollover depending on the game you play. Slots generally contribute 100 percent, although some titles may be excluded.
Popular Software Providers
To deliver an outstanding online experience, virtual casinos collaborate with innovative software developers. Some of the biggest names in the iGaming industry supply games to Ireland-friendly casinos, allowing players to enjoy high-quality slots, table games, live-dealer titles, and many other options.
These developers continually update their portfolios to ensure their games run smoothly on mobile devices, enabling players to enjoy a vast selection of titles while on the move. Irish players therefore have access to casino games from some of the very best companies in the iGaming industry.
Microgaming
NetEnt
Playtech
Evolution Gaming
Play’n GO
BetsoftMicrogaming
Microgaming is a leader in the iGaming sector and was the first company to create online casino software back in 1994. Over the years, it has built a catalog that caters to every type of player, offering Irish users a wide array of slots, table games, and video poker titles with engaging designs and features.
Although Microgaming provides downloadable casino software, its games can also be played instantly in a web browser, giving players flexibility across platforms. Microgaming has further optimized its catalog for mobile devices, allowing you to enjoy your favorite titles on smartphones and tablets.
NetEnt
Irish players frequently encounter games from NetEnt, another prominent name in the iGaming industry renowned for its outstanding slots and other casino offerings. Founded in 1996, NetEnt has consistently delivered some of the best titles available online.
Beyond slots and table games, NetEnt supplies live-dealer content. Its Live Casino solutions let you enjoy an authentic experience from the comfort of home. NetEnt ensures its games run smoothly on any device, including smartphones and tablets, so you can enjoy a top-tier casino experience wherever you are.
Playtech
Among the many software creators in the market, only a select few are considered industry leaders, and Playtech is one of them. Irish players can enjoy a broad range of games developed by this innovative provider.
Playtech’s portfolio includes slots, table games, video poker, and more. In addition, Playtech offers Live Casino solutions that replicate the atmosphere of a sophisticated land-based venue. The platform is available across multiple devices, allowing you to enjoy your favorite games at home or on the go.
Evolution Gaming
For an authentic casino experience, many players prefer playing against real dealers online. Evolution Gaming specializes in delivering exactly that and is a leader in the Live Casino sector, with its titles featured at many Ireland-friendly sites.
When you enter a Live Casino lobby powered by Evolution Gaming, you will find a vast range of options. Choose from multiple versions of roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat, each with different rules, betting limits, and features. Beyond classic table games, Evolution also offers live Game Shows that add an extra layer of entertainment.
Play’n GO
Another provider whose games are widely enjoyed by Irish players is Play’n GO. With extensive experience in the iGaming field, the company delivers a top-notch casino adventure through its diverse software solutions. Players can choose from a wide selection that includes slots, table games, bingo, and more.
Although Play’n GO’s catalog is smaller than those of some competitors, its titles stand out for their engaging design and features. To ensure an enjoyable experience anytime, Play’n GO has optimized many of its games for mobile play, allowing Irish players to enjoy their favorites while on the move.
Betsoft
Irish players can also enjoy Betsoft titles at many online casinos. Although smaller in scale, this provider consistently delivers exciting content for every type of casino enthusiast. Founded in 2006, Betsoft has earned a reputation as one of the top software companies in the iGaming industry.
Betsoft’s signature offerings are its 3D cinematic games, which immerse players in rich graphics and animations. The portfolio includes slots, table games, video poker, and other engaging options, all optimized for smooth performance on mobile devices so you can play wherever you go.
Top 10 Casinos for Players from Ireland
Virtual casinos let players enjoy their favorite games without leaving home. As with brick-and-mortar venues, online casinos allow you to bet real money and test your luck and skills across various games. Because Irish players may legally use both local and offshore sites, they have plenty of options.
With so many choices, it is essential to find websites that provide a fair and secure gaming environment. Doing so lets you explore hundreds of games while feeling confident about your real-money wagers. To help you decide, we have highlighted 10 online casinos that deliver a first-rate experience for Irish players.
LeoVegas
Casino.com
Casumo
PlayOJO
Eurogrand
32Red
Yako Casino
bet365
Royal Panda
Mr GreenLeoVegas
LeoVegas is a top destination for Irish players, offering a wide range of games from leading names in the iGaming industry. You can enjoy slots, table games, video poker, and live-dealer options supplied by companies such as NetEnt, Play’n GO, and Evolution Gaming.
New members receive a generous Welcome Bonus, and regular players can tap into additional promotions. LeoVegas holds a remote gambling license in Ireland issued by the Revenue Commissioners, along with licenses from other major European jurisdictions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for Irish players.
Casino.com
Casino.com is another excellent option for Irish players, providing a trustworthy environment and fair gameplay. Powered by Playtech’s robust software, Casino.com delivers a superb experience across desktop and mobile platforms, including a dedicated app.
Begin your journey with an enticing Welcome Bonus, then keep the excitement going with additional promotions. Casino.com operates under respected licenses from the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner and the UK Gambling Commission, underscoring its reliability.
Casumo
Casumo offers Irish players a top-tier gaming experience with an extensive selection of slots, table games, video poker, live-dealer titles, and more. The platform features content from Microgaming, NetEnt, Play’n GO, Evolution Gaming, and other leading providers.
Newcomers can claim a generous Welcome Bonus, while regular players earn loyalty points that unlock free spins and Deposit Bonuses. Casumo operates under a license from the Malta Gaming Authority, ensuring a secure environment.
PlayOJO
PlayOJO delivers a great experience, allowing you to start playing your favorite games immediately. Irish players can choose from a vast library of slots, video poker, table games, live-dealer titles, and more, powered by providers such as NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play, and Evolution Gaming.
This diversity ensures something for every casino fan. PlayOJO also offers cashback, special rewards via the OJO Wheel, and other perks tied to its VIP program. The site operates under a license from the Malta Gaming Authority, a highly respected jurisdiction.
Eurogrand
Eurogrand delivers an excellent gaming experience with a vast library that appeals to fans of slots, table games, and more. The casino runs on Playtech’s software platform, ensuring high-quality games throughout the site.
Generous promotions are available to both new and returning players, adding extra excitement and value. Eurogrand operates under a license from the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner, guaranteeing a safe and fair environment.
32Red
32Red offers an engaging casino adventure with a wide range of games. Available to Irish players, the site features content from NetEnt, Microgaming, NextGen Gaming, and other innovative providers.
New players can look forward to a wonderful Welcome Bonus, and additional promotions keep the excitement alive for regular members. 32Red is licensed by both the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner and the UK Gambling Commission, underscoring its commitment to fairness and security.
Yako Casino
Yako Casino is another site Irish players are likely to appreciate, offering a broad selection of slots, table games, video poker, live-dealer titles, and other variations. Its diverse library comes from providers such as NetEnt, Microgaming, NextGen Gaming, and Evolution Gaming.
A Welcome Bonus and ongoing promotions ensure a rewarding experience. Real-money play is secure, and you can choose from several payment methods to manage your bankroll. Yako Casino operates under licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission.
bet365
Irish players seeking a variety of entertaining and rewarding games can turn to bet365. The casino runs on Playtech’s software platform, delivering an extensive selection of slots, table games, video poker, live-dealer titles, and more.
New members can redeem a bountiful Welcome Bonus for a strong start, and additional promotions add ongoing value. Bet365 holds a license from the Malta Gaming Authority as well as several other jurisdictions, ensuring a secure environment.
Royal Panda
For a rewarding casino session, visit Royal Panda. This virtual casino welcomes Irish players and features a vast array of slots, table games, video poker, live-dealer titles, and more, thanks to software solutions from several innovative companies.
Its library includes content from NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, Evolution Gaming, and others. Generous promotions cater to both new and regular members, enhancing the overall experience. Royal Panda operates under a license from the Malta Gaming Authority, one of the strictest regulators in iGaming.
Mr Green
Irish players can look forward to a fantastic experience at Mr Green, which offers slots, table games, video poker, live-dealer games, and exclusive Mr Green titles. With software from NetEnt, Play’n GO, Relax Gaming, Evolution Gaming, and others, players can enjoy a superb casino experience.
From the start you can claim a generous Welcome Bonus, and ongoing promotions keep regular members engaged. Mr Green is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, ensuring safe and fair play.
Ask a Question. Get an Answer.
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Find the answers of questions people asked so far:
Why am I not allowed to use a credit card for my casino deposits and withdrawals?
In 2021, Ireland introduced a ban on using credit cards for gambling. The measure, together with a whistle-to-whistle advertising ban, formed part of the updated Code of Practice issued by the Irish Bookmakers’ Association (IBA). The new rules were designed to create a safer gambling environment for Irish players. All IBA members adopted the credit card ban in 2021, so Irish players can no longer use credit cards for online casino deposits or withdrawals. Debit cards remain widely accepted by gambling brands and can be used for both types of transactions.
What will the new Gambling Regulation Bill introduce for Irish online casino players?
The 2023 Gambling Regulation Bill primarily aims to create a safer environment for Irish players and bettors. When the Justice Plan for 2023 was published on April 6, it outlined 140 key changes intended to make gambling in Ireland safer. One proposal is the establishment of a Regulatory Authority of Ireland, which would oversee licensing and enforcement nationwide. If the bill is passed, it may also prohibit all gambling-related promotions.