Obtaining a gambling license in Romania

Romania attracts gambling operators from all over the world due to its growing market and favorable business conditions. However, to operate legally in the country, obtaining the appropriate license is required. The licensing process involves meeting certain conditions, which vary depending on the type of services offered, such as online casinos, betting services, or software development companies.

In 2024, Romania significantly tightened the requirements for obtaining a gambling license, enhancing control over gambling operators. The new regulations include increased financial guarantees, stricter compliance checks, and heightened supervision over responsible gambling. Authorities now require operators not only to pay increased fees but also to provide more transparent reporting aimed at preventing fraud and protecting players. These changes are part of a state strategy to regulate the market and minimize risks associated with gambling.
This article will explore the types of gambling licenses in Romania, the main requirements for applicants, and the steps to obtain permissions. This will help you understand how to enter the Romanian gambling market and operate in accordance with the law.

License and its types

To legally offer relevant products in Romania, a gambling operator must apply for and obtain:

Class 1 license for organizing gambling activities.
One or more permits for conducting specific types of games.
Class 2 license for entities operating in the B2B sector.

The Class 2 license can be issued for the following activities:

Manufacturers, distributors, and other organizations working with gambling equipment or components (relevant for land-based casinos);
Software providers;
Platform management service providers, hosting, and data centers, etc.

Romanian gambling law contains certain provisions that may be restrictive depending on the chosen business model, for example:

The right to organize and conduct gambling activities is granted only to companies registered in Romania, the EU/EEA, or Switzerland, with a permanent representation in Romania;
B2B operators are prohibited from providing gambling-related services to companies without a Class 1 license;
To operate slot machines, Class 1 operators must confirm that the premises are located in towns with a population of over 15,000 residents;
Online operators not hosting their gaming servers in Romania must have "mirror" servers within Romania to transmit data in real-time to the National Gambling Office;
Online operators must open bank accounts in Romania and conduct all transactions with players through a licensed Class 2 payment processor;
Importing gambling equipment to Romania is only allowed after notifying the regulator.

Foreign online operators operating through a permanent establishment in Romania must appoint a local representative to interact with Romanian authorities.
There are specific requirements for Class 2 licensees. For example, B2B operators are prohibited from providing gambling-related services to companies without a Class 1 license.

Licensing process

Documents preparation

On this step necessary internal documents and policies are being prepared.
Application submission to the competent authority

The licensing application must be submitted at least nine business days before the meeting of the National Gambling Office's Supervisory Committee, which meets twice a month to make decisions on license applications.
License acquisition

After obtaining a license the applicant can start their business activity.

Applicant requirements

To offer services to Romanian players, the operator must be a resident of Romania, the EU, or the EEA. If the company is a foreign legal entity, it must appoint a local authorized representative residing in Romania to interact with the competent authorities.
A bank account must be opened in a Romanian bank where player funds will be deposited.
Specific requirements are also imposed on the company's management and employees, particularly regarding their education, experience, and reputation.
The minimum required share capital of the company depends on the types of games it offers.

Obtaining a gambling license in Romania is a mandatory step for those who wish to operate legally in one of the most promising markets in Europe.
Compliance with local legislation opens access to a wide audience of players and creates conditions for sustainable growth. Successfully obtaining a license in Romania is not just a formal requirement but a strategic move toward expanding your gambling business internationally.