Austria Moves Toward Opening Online Gambling Market by 2029
Austria has started work on a major gambling reform that could open its online betting and casino market to more operators by 2029. The change is part of a draft bill prepared by the Federal Ministry of Finance. It would end the long-running monopoly held by Casinos Austria and allow EU-licensed companies to apply for local licences.
The plan has support from Austria’s coalition government, which includes SPÖ, ÖVP and NEOS. This is a notable shift because SPÖ had defended the Casinos Austria model for years. If the reform moves forward, Austria would no longer be the last EU country with monopoly rights in online gambling.
The draft bill still points to a strict market. Austria wants central control over online gambling, stronger identity checks and closer monitoring of player affordability. The proposal also includes lower limits for online casino play. The maximum stake could fall from €10 to €2 per spin, while maximum winnings could drop from €10,000 to €2,000.
Tax rules are not settled yet. This may become one of the hardest parts of the debate. Some lawmakers want high taxes to protect state income, but critics warn that too many limits and costs could push players toward offshore sites.
Casinos Austria has reacted carefully.
“Operators that served Austrian players without a local licence should not be rewarded immediately,” the company said.
The final law is still far away, but the direction is clear: Austria is preparing for a more open online gambling market.
