Spain’s Gambling Market Undergoes Significant Regulatory Overhaul
The Spanish gambling market is undergoing a major transformation due to recent regulatory changes. These new regulations aim to create a more controlled environment, prompting some players to consider alternatives like foreign casinos with less restrictive conditions. This shift is fundamentally reshaping the landscape of online gambling in the country.
Key Changes in Advertising Regulations
Following a ruling by the Spanish Supreme Court in April 2024, some advertising restrictions from Royal Decree 958/2020 were overturned. This has introduced a new dynamic, allowing operators to target new customers with advertising during their first 30 days and place ads at lottery ticket sales points.
However, significant restrictions remain in place. The ban on sponsoring sporting events and using celebrities in advertising is still enforced. Television and radio advertising time slots continue to be limited to between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM.
The government plans to introduce new legislative restrictions on online and social media gambling advertising, particularly concerning the use of well-known figures, influencers, and bonuses aimed at young people. This could partially offset the measures overturned by the Supreme Court.
Implementation of Risk Behavior Detection Algorithms
Starting in September 2025, all operators will be required to use a centralized algorithm to detect players exhibiting risky behavior. This system, developed by the DGOJ (Directorate General for Gambling Regulation), represents a revolutionary approach to consumer protection in online gambling.
Players identified as being at risk will face substantial restrictions. They will be prohibited from receiving promotions or using VIP services, and payments will only be allowed from their own accounts. The use of credit cards will be completely excluded for this category of players.
Strengthening the Self-Exclusion and Verification System
The General Registry of Access Interdictions to Gambling (RGIAJ) has been given expanded functions to more effectively control access to gambling. The system now automatically blocks access to all licensed operators simultaneously, creating a comprehensive protective barrier.
Stricter age verification and player identification measures are also being implemented to prevent underage participation. A bill is planned to install identification systems in slot machines and expand KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures to land-based establishments.
These measures are complemented by new reporting requirements that take effect in March 2025. Operators must regularly provide detailed information about implemented protection protocols and the number of players requiring intervention.
Planned System of Joint Deposit Limits
The most ambitious initiative is the implementation of general deposit limits across all operators. This mechanism, expected by the end of 2025, will limit the total amount a player can deposit on all licensed platforms.
Under the “Safe Gambling 2026–2030” program, the DGOJ plans to establish specific centralized limits: €600 daily and €1500 weekly for all licensed operators. This system will radically change how monetary flows are managed in the industry, as players will have a single limit for the entire market instead of separate limits for each operator.
Strategic Program “Safe Gambling 2026–2030”
In June 2025, the DGOJ presented an ambitious strategic document outlining regulatory priorities for the next four years. The program focuses on three key areas: updated analysis of the industry’s current state, prevention and promotion of safe gambling, and enhanced protection of participants.
The document includes six general objectives and 22 specific measures aimed at creating new lines of collaboration with the Advisory Council on Responsible Gambling. To support a scientific approach, the DGOJ has allocated over €1.05 million to university research studying the impact of gambling on different demographic groups and the connections between gambling and video games.
The Council has three months to provide feedback on the project, after which the final version of the program will be approved, becoming the roadmap for state policy on safe gambling.
Intensifying the Fight Against Illegal Operators
The DGOJ has significantly intensified measures against unlicensed platforms during 2025. In May, 14 operators were blocked and fined a total of €77.4 million for license requirement violations. This campaign is part of a coordinated strategy involving law enforcement, regional regulators, and specialized units of the “Gambling Police.”
The effectiveness of the Spanish system is attracting attention from other European countries, particularly Italy, France, and Germany, which are considering implementing a similar model of close collaboration between regulators, financial institutions, and law enforcement. The DGOJ is investing in agent training, technology, and international cooperation to combat cybercrime and blockchain gambling.
Economic Impact and Operator Adaptation
The new regulations create significant financial pressure on operators. Technological investments to comply with requirements, including integrating risk detection algorithms and updating reporting systems, substantially increase operating costs.
The progressive tax system further complicates financial planning. Operators must rebuild their business models, considering new restrictions on promotions and changes in the advertising landscape following the Supreme Court decisions.
Industry and Consumer Reaction
The industry’s response to the new regulations has been mixed. Large operators are demonstrating a willingness to adapt, investing in necessary technologies and restructuring processes. Smaller companies face challenges in meeting the new requirements due to limited resources.
Consumer organizations support the enhanced protection measures, especially the risk behavior detection system. However, some players express concern about excessive control and the potential decrease in the attractiveness of the legal market compared to unregulated alternatives.
International Cooperation and Future Prospects
Spain is actively collaborating with European partners to ensure the effectiveness of its regulatory measures. New EU AML (Anti-Money Laundering) directives, which will further strengthen control over financial operations in the sector, come into effect from 2025.
The DGOJ, now under the direction of the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030, is developing a long-term strategy for the digital transformation of the industry. This includes integrating artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies to improve monitoring and transparency.
Digital Transformation of the DGOJ
As part of modernizing its activities, the DGOJ has significantly expanded its digital presence. The regulator updated the official website and intensified its presence on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and YouTube, to ensure transparency and accessibility of information for players and operators.
This initiative aims to improve communication with all stakeholders and increase public awareness of responsible gambling. The new digital strategy also includes an online platform for grant applications and a centralized portal for interacting with the regulator.
The DGOJ, now under the direction of the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030, is developing a long-term strategy for the digital transformation of the industry. This includes integrating artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies to improve monitoring and transparency.
Conclusions
The new gambling regulations in Spain create an unprecedented environment of control, prioritizing consumer protection over commercial interests. The “Safe Gambling 2026–2030” program, with specific deposit limits and scientific support, demonstrates a long-term vision for the development of responsible gambling. The intensified fight against illegal operators and the digital transformation of the DGOJ set new regulatory standards for the European market.
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