Austrian Gambling Reform Delayed Following Malta’s EU Intervention

Highlights:

• Malta’s intervention has extended the EU notification period for Austria’s proposed amendments to gambling law until 7 December 2026.
• The planned introduction of Austria’s open online gambling licensing framework remains targeted for 1 January 2027, potentially creating tighter preparation deadlines for operators.

Austria’s proposed gambling market reform has encountered another regulatory obstacle after Malta submitted a detailed opinion during the European Union’s notification process. 

The intervention automatically extended the review period, postponing its expected completion from 5 November to 7 December 2026.

The proposed amendments aim to end Austria’s existing online gambling monopoly and introduce an open licensing framework. The reform could create opportunities for additional licensed operators to enter the country’s online gambling market, significantly changing its competitive structure.

However, the revised notification timeline could create operational challenges for international operators preparing to apply for Austrian iGaming licences. Gaming lawyer Arthur Stadler noted that the shorter period between legislative approval and implementation could make preparations more difficult.

One major concern involves cross-border operators already serving Austrian customers under licences issued in other European jurisdictions, including Malta.

Under the proposed framework, these businesses must comply with a nine-month cooling-off period before becoming eligible for an Austrian licence.

Operators may need to discontinue their online casino services for Austrian customers by 31 December 2026. Failure to meet the requirement could result in an extended 18-month market exclusion. They must also address outstanding player claims and backdated tax obligations.

For iGaming businesses, the development highlights the importance of monitoring regulatory changes, licensing requirements, and market-entry deadlines.

Operators considering European expansion should assess compliance obligations early to minimise potential disruptions during Austria’s anticipated transition to an open licensing system.

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