Know Your Regulations: An Overview of Poland’s Online Gambling Laws

Published on 5th June 2017 by Adam

Towards the end of 2016, Polish online casino gamers were dealt a telling blow as amendments to existing iGaming laws were passed. It needed approval from both of Poland’s legislative chambers to come into force, but this was attained and now operators have begun pulling out of the country. 888 Group are the latest big name to cull their casino, poker and other gambling operations, with only state-backed Totalizator Sportowy being allowed to operate the first two.

Let’s take a detailed look at Poland’s online gaming regulations and licensing system and what it means for you.

Polish Gambling Act Ruffles Casino Feathers

Prior to the changes in December 2016, the Polish Gambling Act only had eyes for online sportsbook.

Overseas-based internet casinos and gambling portals could be accessed by Polish residents who fancied a flutter on some of the best online casino entertainment around.

However, the government began to take aim at our beloved slots, table games, jackpots and other games by implementing a rigid scheme to be dominated by Totalizator Sportowy.

To do away with foreign internet casinos, Poland’s authorities have demanded that internet providers enforce IP blocking on these websites, while banks have been told not to authorise casino payment service requests.

Who is Included Within Poland’s Online Casino Domain Embargo?

Unfortunately, there is a staggering list of gambling domains on the Polish government’s radar, no fewer than 255 at the time of writing with this figure only set to grow.

The cut-off date for Poland’s internet providers to impose the IP block is 1st July, with substantial fines being dished out to each individual company if the rules aren’t followed.

We’ve heard reports that some gambling platforms are looking to apply for a local license, but this is completely up in the air due to the government’s stance on Totalizator Sportowy.

What Next for Polish Online Gaming Players?

Due to the Polish government’s aggressive tactics towards banning online gambling in the country, it’s an extremely tricky situation to be in if you’re a resident with a passion for iGaming.

Even worse, a recent comment by First Deputy Finance Minister, Wiesław Janczyk, suggested that the National Tax Authority (KSA) was monitoring the internet to determine whether any gambling laws were being broken due to impromptu meetings – including Facebook and other social media websites!

Although not everyone in the Polish government has an anti-online gambling mindset, we’re extremely disappointed to say that it looks as though this position is here to stay.