Austrian lawmakers are finalizing a new iGaming law this week, with negotiations centering on a proposed cooling-off period for unlicensed operators. The legislation will replace the current online gambling monopoly, which expires in 2027, and establish a regulated market framework.
The governing coalition comprising the People’s Party, Social Democrats, and NEOS is resolving the final details of the bill. A draft released in late May outlines the transition from the state monopoly to a licensed system. The Ministry of Finance is advocating for an initial exclusion phase that would bar any company with violations of Austrian gambling regulations in the previous five years from obtaining a license.
Public affairs consultant Felix Geyer estimates this restriction could last between 24 and 36 months, primarily impacting EU-licensed providers currently operating in the region.
Industry Response and Legislative Debate
Established land-based operators support the transition measure. Patrick Minar, spokesperson for Casinos Austria, stated that an initial cooling-off phase of three to five years would be reasonable, noting that immediate licensing after illegal operation lacks consistency. Monika Racek, CEO of Admiral Casinos & Entertainment, which Tipico acquired in 2025, emphasized that state-regulated gaming providers have maintained responsible practices for years and should not face equal treatment with recently non-compliant operators.
The final bill will determine market access conditions for offshore providers and reshape Austria’s gambling sector. Earlier discussions highlighted concerns that a lengthy exclusion window could limit competition during the initial licensing phase.