Everything You Need to Know About the Casino Laws
The Ministry of Finance regulates all forms of gambling in Poland and enforces laws related to online casinos. The Gambling Act of 2009 (amended in 2017) governs the industry, placing strict limitations on online casinos.
Only the state-run company Totalizator Sportowy is licensed to offer legal online casino games. Foreign online casinos without a Polish license are illegal, and the government actively blocks these websites. The laws around sports betting are slightly more liberal and there is more choice of licensed online bookies.
Ministry of Finance
- The Ministry of Finance enforces Poland’s Gambling Act (2009).
- The act was amended in 2017 to clamp down on unlicensed casinos.
- A register of banned domains blocks access to unlicensed, illegal casino sites.
- There is high taxation on gambling, for both players (10% on winnings above certain limits) and casinos.
- Operating unlicensed gambling services is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
- Laws related to online betting are slightly more liberal.
As of now, no major legal changes have been announced for Poland’s online casino regulations, and it seems unlikely that the laws will be relaxed anytime soon.
However, ongoing discussions have focused on several potential areas of reform or adjustments. These include tighter enforcement of the Gambling Act, an increase in player protection standards and potential changes to the high tax rates currently imposed on licensed casinos.
Gambling in Poland
Land-based gambling is legal and regulated in Poland, but regulations are strict and only a limited number of licenses are granted.
When it comes to legal online casinos, the only option is the state-owned Totalizator Sportowy, which holds a monopoly on online casino games.
In my opinion, Poland’s gambling laws are pretty strict, with the government maintaining a tight grip on the industry through state monopolies. Due to this lack of choice, it’s perhaps unsurprising that the legal market is less appealing to players, and they tend to look to the illegal one.
Gambling History and Future
Historically, Poland has always maintained strict control over gambling activities, particularly after the introduction of the Gambling Act of 2009, which severely restricted both land-based and online gambling.
The law was further amended in 2017, granting a state monopoly to Totalizator Sportowy for online casino games and enforcing stricter penalties for unlicensed operators. The future of gambling in Poland is expected to continue under strict regulation.
Polish Flag
- 1992 – The legal framework for land-based casinos introduced, allowing limited casino operations.
- 2009 – The Gambling Act is passed, establishing a state monopoly on lotteries and introducing tighter restrictions on gambling.
- 2011 – Online gambling (excluding sports betting) is banned; sports betting allowed only through licensed companies.
- 2017 – Major amendments made to the Gambling Act, including the state monopoly extended to online casinos, introduction of a blacklist for illegal gambling websites.
- 2019 – Self-exclusion system introduced, allowing players to opt out of gambling across all licensed platforms.
- 2021 – Expansion of enforcement against grey market operators, with enhanced efforts to block access to unlicensed gambling websites.
The tight restrictions do not look set to let up anytime soon. Poland’s gambling industry is likely to face further regulatory tightening in the coming years.
While regulation is important, my concern is that these tightening restrictions could unintentionally continue to push players towards the grey market. Where there is less oversight, fewer protections, and higher risks.
Conclusion
Poland has consistently maintained tight control over gambling activities, with significant restrictions introduced under the Gambling Act of 2009 and amendments in 2017.
It seems unlikely that Poland will relax its gambling laws in the near future. Instead, the government is expected to maintain its strict stance by continuing to block unlicensed websites and enforcing compliance with existing regulations.
A balance needs to be struck between protecting players and ensuring that the regulated market remains appealing and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address common questions about gambling laws and regulations in Poland.
Can I play at online casinos in Poland?
The state-owned Totalizator Sportowy holds the monopoly on online casinos and poker in Poland. So, any form of online casino gambling, such as slots, roulette, blackjack, and poker, can only be legally offered on the casino operated by them.
Can I bet on sports in Poland?
Yes, you can, as long as you are using a licensed bookmaker. Bookmakers, both online and offline, need to obtain a license from the Ministry of Finance to be able to offer sports betting legally in the country. Foreign operators can enter the market, but they must establish a physical presence in Poland.
Written By Philippa Bates