Estonia to Revise Gambling Laws: Key Changes on the Horizon

Estonia is set to revise its gambling laws, with the Ministry of Finance planning updates to the 2008 Gambling Act. Lawmakers expect to present a draft by mid-2025 and implement changes in early 2026. These updates will refine regulations rather than introduce stricter restrictions.

Key Areas of Change

The revision will focus on online gambling mechanics and promotional incentives. The Economic Affairs Committee has raised concerns that certain features may encourage problematic gambling habits. Committee Chairman Jaak Aab pointed to research suggesting an increase in pre-addiction phases. As a result, officials want to review in-play mechanics and bonus structures, though they have not yet confirmed specific changes.

Another major update will expand Estonia’s self-exclusion program, HAMPI. Currently, players can voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling. The new law would allow family members to request exclusions for relatives. Lawmakers are also debating whether courts should have the power to mandate exclusions in some cases. However, some critics argue that a legal process might discourage voluntary participation due to its complexity.

No Planned Changes to Gambling Age or Taxes

Unlike other European markets, Estonia does not plan to regulate loot boxes or change the minimum gambling age of 21. Lawmakers have already raised gambling taxes in 2023, increasing the remote gambling tax from 5% to 6% and the lottery sales tax from 18% to 22%. While no additional increases are planned, officials continue to review the tax system and may introduce future changes.

Advertising and Regional Gambling Trends

In 2023, lawmakers proposed a TV and radio gambling ad ban, but political opposition blocked it. Instead of a total ban, the revised laws will focus on preventing misleading ads, particularly those promoting gambling as a financial solution.

Estonia’s changes reflect broader trends in the Baltic region. In Latvia, Riga’s city council plans to limit land-based casinos to specific areas, making them less accessible. In Lithuania, the government has submitted new technical requirements for remote gambling to the European Commission. These include IT security, compliance standards, and data protection rules.

How This Affects Online Casinos

The new regulations will likely force online casinos to adjust their game mechanics and bonus structures. If Estonia restricts certain gambling incentives, operators must redesign promotions to comply. The expansion of self-exclusion rules may also require platforms to update their responsible gaming policies.

Though no immediate tax hikes are expected, operators should stay alert for possible changes. The stricter advertising guidelines will also require casinos to adjust their marketing strategies to ensure compliance.

As Estonia moves forward with its gambling law updates, both players and operators will need to adapt to the evolving rules. The final impact will become clear once lawmakers finalize the amendments.