Online Gambling in Greece: Legal Landscape, Platforms, and Regulations

Online gambling in Greece is fully legal and regulated under a comprehensive licensing framework established by the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC). The Greek government has created a controlled environment for gambling operators to offer services within the country, while ensuring consumer protection and responsible gambling standards. Here’s an in-depth look at the online gambling scene in Greece.

Legal Status and Regulation

Online gambling became formally regulated in Greece through Law 4002/2011, which was further refined by subsequent amendments and the 2020 licensing regime. Under the current system, operators must obtain a license from the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC) to legally offer gambling services, including sports betting, online casinos, poker, and other games of chance.

There are two types of licenses available:

• Type 1 License: Covers online betting (sports and horse racing)
• Type 2 License: Covers all other online gambling activities (casino games, poker, slots, bingo, etc.)

These licenses are valid for seven years and require strict compliance with Greek gambling regulations.

Taxation on Winnings

For players, winnings from online gambling are subject to a progressive tax system:

• Winnings under €100 are tax-free
• Winnings between €100.01 and €500 are taxed at 15%
• Winnings over €500 are taxed at 20%

Operators are required to withhold this tax at the source and report player activity to the authorities, ensuring full transparency.

Available Gambling Platforms

Greece has a mix of international and local operators that are licensed to serve the Greek market. Some of the most well-known licensed platforms include:

• Stoiximan
• Bet365
• Bwin
• Novibet
• PokerStars

These sites must comply with Greek law, including restrictions on marketing to minors, time limits, responsible gambling tools, and clear terms and conditions.

Gambling Restrictions and Player Protections

Greek law enforces several responsible gambling measures:

• Players must be at least 21 years old to register and gamble online.
• Operators must implement self-exclusion programs and deposit limits.
• Advertising is restricted, especially during certain hours and in channels accessible to minors.
• All operators are required to provide support for problem gambling through partnerships with organizations like KETHEA (Therapy Center for Dependent Individuals).

Payment Methods and Currency

Greek players can deposit and withdraw using various secure methods such as:

• Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller)
• Bank transfers
• Prepaid cards (Paysafecard)

All transactions are typically conducted in euros (€), and licensed operators must maintain a secure and verified system to ensure player funds are protected.

Blacklisted Sites and IP Blocking

The HGC actively maintains a blacklist of unauthorized gambling websites. Internet service providers in Greece are required to block access to these platforms, and unlicensed operators face legal action. Players are also advised to avoid unlicensed platforms to ensure legal protection and fair play.

Conclusion

Greece offers a well-regulated and safe environment for online gambling. The combination of legal licensing, consumer protection, taxation, and enforcement has made it a stable market for both local players and international operators. As long as players choose HGC-licensed platforms, they can legally and securely enjoy a wide range of online betting and casino games in Greece.