Austria Set to Open Online Gaming Market in 2027 with Controversial 'Cooling Off' Period

The Austrian government has finalized a draft legislative package aimed at dissolving its long-standing online gambling monopoly, paving the way for a multi-operator market from October 2027. This move signifies a major shift in the country's iGaming landscape, although initial entry might be restricted for some existing operators.

Central to the proposed reforms is a contentious “cooling off” clause, first reported by the Krone newspaper. This provision could temporarily bar companies that have operated without an Austrian license within the 18 months preceding the law's enforcement. The exclusion period is slated to extend to 24 months from 2030. Operators affected by this rule, many of whom currently serve Austrian players under alternative EU licenses, would also be compelled to settle outstanding tax obligations and player claims from previous years.

This “cooling off” measure has drawn sharp criticism from industry bodies. The Austrian Betting and Gaming Association (OVWG) expressed concerns that such a restriction would undermine the government's objectives for market channelization. Simon Priglinger-Simader, president of the OVWG, stated, "With cooling off, the opposite happens: tax-paying operators must leave, the black market jumps in, existing revenues collapse and already budgeted additional revenues fail to materialise." He added that pre-licensing bans could create a significant void within the newly regulated market.

Conversely, the current online monopoly holder, Austrian Lotteries (a subsidiary of Casinos Austria), which also operates land-based casinos, is anticipated to welcome these proposed restrictions. Casinos Austria, alongside other major players like Tipico-owned Admiral, has previously advocated for a temporary moratorium on licenses for grey market participants.

Beyond market entry, the three-party coalition government has also reportedly reached an agreement on several critical regulatory details. Following earlier industry feedback, the proposed maximum stake limit for online slots has been adjusted from a previous draft's €2, to now be set at €5. Furthermore, potential winnings will be capped at €10,000, a significant increase from an earlier suggested €2,000 limit, and jackpot games will still be permissible.

Player protection measures are also a core component of the new framework. A weekly deposit limit of €1,680 will be imposed on players, with even more stringent controls for individuals under the age of 26. Game mechanics will face strict regulation, including mandatory breaks during play and limitations on game speed.

In addition to online reforms, the draft law signals a potential opening for land-based casino licenses. While not an unlimited number, the Krone newspaper indicates that 13 land-based casino licenses will be available in the upcoming tender. These could be awarded individually or grouped into larger packages.