Italy has revealed that a total of 46 operators have applied for its coveted online gambling licenses, with each one costing €7 million. The deadline for applications passed on July 1, and all applicants have successfully cleared the first stage of checks. This move signals the beginning of a wider reform designed to reshape Italy’s gambling sector, aiming to reduce grey market activities and elevate industry standards.
Italy Takes a Step Toward a More Regulated Gambling Market
The new licensing system is expected to bring more competition to Italy’s gambling market by offering better protections for players. Currently, many Italian players turn to unregulated offshore platforms because they offer quicker sign-up processes, fewer KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements, and larger bonuses. These offshore sites typically ask for minimal user information, such as an email and password, making them more convenient and attractive to players.
However, the Italian government is now focusing on bringing operators into the fold who can offer competitive services and encourage players to return to the regulated domestic market. By raising the licensing bar and charging a higher fee, the government aims to attract stronger companies with the resources needed to match the offerings of international platforms.
The 46 applicants are vying for 52 available permits across multiple verticals, including sportsbook, casino, and bingo. These licenses will be valid until 2034. The mix of new and established names in the list indicates strong interest from both seasoned operators and those seeking to enter the Italian market for the first time.
Italy’s Regulatory Overhaul: A Higher Bar for Operators
The new licensing round follows a significant update to the country’s regulatory framework. Previously, licenses were offered for just €200,000, but the new model requires operators to pay a substantial €7 million fee. The government believes this revised system better aligns with the modern digital market, where the stakes are higher, and the demand for quality and compliance is greater.
Under the new rules, operators will be required to run their services under a dedicated .it domain. Additionally, they must pay a 3% annual fee on their net gaming revenue, with a further contribution of 0.2% earmarked for responsible gambling initiatives. This move aims to improve the transparency of the sector, limit unnecessary domain proliferation, and raise overall standards.
With more than 400 gambling websites active in Italy, many of which operate in grey areas, the new rules are designed to streamline the industry, focusing on licensed and accountable operators. The government aims to reduce the number of operators from 88 to about 50, yet experts believe that the market’s total performance will remain stable, thanks to the increased quality of the remaining operators.
Italy’s Gambling Revenue Growth in 2025
In 2025, Italy’s public gambling sector continues to grow, contributing significantly to the national economy. In the first four months of 2025, Italy’s gambling revenues reached €2.36 billion, reflecting a 1.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This rise is driven by the increasing role of online gambling platforms, which have improved tax collection efficiency and compliance with regulations.
While the market has seen some shifts toward digital platforms, traditional gambling also remains strong, contributing to Italy’s fiscal health. The steady growth of the gambling sector ensures a reliable stream of revenue, supporting public services and social welfare programs across the country. Despite the market’s evolving landscape, experts expect the sector to maintain stable growth, further solidifying its role as a vital contributor to Italy’s economy.
Source:
46 Companies Apply for Italy’s €7 Million Online Gambling Permits, europeangaming.eu, July 24, 2025