Crypto Gambling in Ireland

Cryptocurrency gambling is legal in Ireland, but it sits uncomfortably in a grey area. Here’s a clear look at how it works, what the law says, and what’s changing under the new Gambling Regulation Act.

Is Crypto Gambling in Ireland Legal?

While it is legal to play at cryptocurrency gambling sites in Ireland, crypto gambling in Ireland occupies a legal grey area. 

There is no legislation explicitly banning Irish players from playing at a cryptocurrency gambling site, but there are no cryptocurrency gambling sites licensed in Ireland. 

At this time, Ireland is undergoing a massive overhaul of its gambling laws. 

In 2024, the Gambling Regulation Act was enacted, and the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) was formally established. This marked the country’s first comprehensive gambling reform in decades, replacing outdated laws from the 50s. And it was a decade in the making.

The Gambling Regulation Act

The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 aims to introduce a modern and unified framework for licensing and regulating gambling in Ireland. As part of this reform, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) was formally established in March 2025 to oversee all forms of gambling, including in-person betting, gaming, and lotteries.

Although cryptocurrency gambling sites are not specifically named in the Act, they are considered “remote gambling operators” and are therefore subject to the same regulatory requirements if they target Irish players.

What the Act Does

Under the Act, licensed operators will be required to comply with strict advertising rules, provide self-exclusion tools, implement responsible gambling protections, and verify players through KYC procedures. These standards will be enforced by the GRAI.

For gamblers in Ireland, this means stronger safeguards against problem gambling, clearer information about risks, and greater transparency around bonuses, withdrawals, and wagering requirements. It also ensures that licensed casinos must treat players fairly, handle disputes properly, and provide accessible ways to limit spending or exclude themselves from gambling if needed.

If a casino – whether crypto or fiat – targets Irish consumers, it must obtain a license under the Act. This ensures the casino is subject to Irish consumer protection laws, player safety standards, and regulatory oversight. Unlicensed offshore casinos operating without approval may be restricted from offering services in Ireland or face enforcement action.

Offshore Crypto Casinos

Most crypto casinos that accept Irish players accept them with an offshore license from jurisdictions like Curaçao. 

For Irish residents, playing at these gambling sites is legal. 

Any restrictions generally target the site or operator rather than players.

There is still a risk, though, if you play at an overseas licensed casino (or a completely anonymous casino). While you will not face prosecution for gambling with crypto, players will be venturing outside Ireland’s consumer protection system. 

Licensed vs Offshore Crypto Casinos

FeatureLicensed (Future in Ireland)Offshore (Current)

Player Protection	High	Low to Moderate
Access to Dispute Help	Yes (via GRAI)	No
Anonymity	Low (KYC required)	High (often no KYC)
Crypto Support	Likely partial	Full crypto support
Legality for Players	Fully legal	Legal to play, unregulated
Tax Treatment	Same (winnings untaxed, gains taxed)	Same

Status of Cryptocurrency in Ireland

It is legal to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrency in Ireland.

Legally, cryptocurrency in Ireland is not considered money or legal tender. Instead, it is treated as a digital asset or property, and its legal classification depends on how it is used.

The Central Bank of Ireland views cryptocurrencies as high-risk speculative assets rather than currency.

How Is Crypto Gambling Taxed in Ireland?

Gambling winnings in Ireland are not taxed for players. This applies to both traditional and crypto gambling. However, cryptocurrency is treated as a digital asset, not legal tender, so any gain in value after you receive your winnings may be subject to Capital Gains Tax at 33% when you convert, sell, or trade the crypto. 

In short, the gambling win itself is tax-free, but the profit you make from the cryptocurrency after the win can be taxable.

Useful Links

Gambling Regulation Act 2024: data.oireachtas.ie Great resource on gambling in Ireland: citizensinformation.ie Why casinos ask for your Know Your Customer (KYC) docs Reviews of Ireland Crypto Casinos

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