Hungary regulates gambling through Act XXXIV of 1991, known as the “Gambling Act”, which covers both land-based and online casinos. This law establishes strict rules for licensing, taxation, and monitoring of gambling activities in the country, ensuring safety and transparency in the gaming environment.
Land-Based and Online Casinos in Hungary
In Hungary, all forms of gambling, including casinos, are strictly regulated. Land-based casinos operate with licenses issued by state authorities, and the number of licensed casinos is limited to 11. Online gambling is regulated through licenses linked to land-based casinos, meaning that only operators who own physical casinos are allowed to offer online gambling services.
In 2023, changes to the Gambling Act were introduced, liberalizing the online sports betting market. Now, private operators registered within the European Economic Area (EEA) can legally offer online betting services if they meet certain requirements, including experience in licensed online gaming and payment of significant financial fees. However, online casino operations remain highly restricted, and foreign operators cannot launch an online casino in Hungary without a local license.
Registry of Excluded Persons
One of the key elements of Hungarian gambling law is the registry of excluded persons, which includes individuals prohibited from participating in gambling. This applies to people suffering from gambling addiction or those placed on the list by court decision. The purpose of this registry is to prevent individuals facing financial difficulties or addiction issues from engaging in gambling.
Casinos and online operators are legally required to check whether players are listed in this registry. This protects vulnerable individuals and helps prevent potential financial and psychological harm.
Key Considerations for Players
If you plan to visit a casino in Hungary or participate in online gambling, keep the following important factors in mind:
Licensing and Security
✅ Every legal casino in Hungary, both land-based and online, must hold a valid license.
✅ Licensed casinos comply with security regulations, ensure fair gaming, and protect player data.
✅ Always check if a casino has a valid license before playing.
Betting Limits and Responsible Gaming
✅ Hungarian law requires casinos to implement responsible gambling measures, including setting betting limits and time restrictions.
✅ Players can use these measures to control their spending and time spent gambling.
✅ Help is available for those experiencing gambling addiction.
Age Restrictions
✅ Gambling is strictly prohibited for individuals under 18 years of age.
✅ Casinos must verify the age of all players before allowing them to gamble, both in-person and online.
Taxes on Winnings
✅ Hungary imposes taxes on gambling winnings.
✅ Casino winnings may be taxable, and players should be prepared to meet their tax obligations.
Availability of Online Casinos
✅ The online casino market in Hungary remains heavily regulated.
✅ While operators offering sports betting can now operate online, many international casinos cannot provide services without a Hungarian or other EU license.
✅ Always choose licensed and regulated platforms.
Loyalty Programs and Bonuses
✅ Many casinos offer bonuses and loyalty programs, including free spins and deposit bonuses.
✅ Players should carefully review bonus terms and conditions to avoid misunderstandings.
Data Protection and Security
✅ Hungarian casinos must protect players’ personal data in compliance with European regulations (GDPR).
✅ Ensure that the casino uses secure payment and data protection methods.
Conclusion
Understanding Hungary’s gambling laws helps ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming experience. Adhering to licensing rules, age restrictions, and responsible gambling measures provides a secure and fair gaming environment. Always choose licensed operators and be aware of the risks associated with gambling.
