Spain Online Gambling Market & Regulation Overview (2025)

A Growing, Highly Regulated European iGaming Powerhouse

Spain is rapidly cementing its status as one of Europe’s most promising online gambling markets. Following the 2011 legalization of online casinos and betting under Law 13/2011, Spain has created a transparent, secure regulatory framework led by the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ). With online gambling revenues expected to hit $1.97 billion in 2024, and grow at a 4.96% CAGR to reach $2.51 billion by 2029, Spain is a vital target for licensed operators and affiliates.

Spanish iGaming Market Highlights

• 2024 GGR Forecast: $1.97 billion
• 2029 Projected GGR: $2.51 billion
• User Base by 2029: 4 million
• Top Products: Online casinos, sports betting (football in particular), poker, bingo

The sector’s growth is driven by mobile-first user behavior, a strong local sports culture, and increased interest in live dealer and interactive casino formats.

Spanish online gambling now contributes approximately 3% of national GDP, making it a critical economic contributor.

Licensing & Regulation in Spain

The iGaming sector is governed by Law 13/2011 and a range of supporting decrees. The DGOJ is responsible for:

• Issuing licenses for betting, contests, and casino games (e.g., slots, roulette, poker)
• Ensuring technical and data security compliance
• Overseeing fair play and responsible gambling enforcement

Licenses are issued only to EU/EEA-based entities who meet DGOJ standards for:

• Technical integrity and fairness (per Royal Decree 1613/2011)
• Anti-fraud and player protection systems
• AML and KYC compliance
• Age verification (18+ only)

Unlicensed operators face heavy penalties, including website blocking, fines, and license revocation.

Regional Licensing Variations

Spain’s 17 autonomous communities observe national rules but some have local regulators. Notable examples include:

• Catalonia: Managed by Comissió de Control de Joc
• Basque Country: Regulated by Eusko Jaurlaritzaren Jokoaren Araubidea
• Madrid: Supervised by Dirección General de Seguridad
• Andalusia: Overseen by Comisión de Juego de Andalucía

These bodies issue additional regional licenses, but operators must still comply with DGOJ standards.

Gambling Advertising in Spain

Spain’s advertising landscape is shaped by Royal Decree 958/2020 and recent court rulings. Key current rules:

• Ads can only target verified users with accounts less than 30 days old
• Advertising is allowed in lottery retail venues
• Celebrity endorsements are permitted again (following 2024 court ruling)
• Sponsorship of sports teams, venues, or broadcasts is still banned
• YouTube and digital platform bans have been lifted

Affiliates must be cautious: SEO-based traffic is the most compliant method. Misleading CTAs, aggressive bonus messaging, or youth-oriented content can lead to fines and blacklisting.

Responsible Gambling Standards

Operators licensed by the DGOJ must implement:

• Self-exclusion tools
• Gaming session limits
• Age verification and minor protection
• Transparency around risks and support resources

Regular audits and compliance reports are mandatory. Ignoring these can result in fines, advertising bans, or license revocation.

Risks of Non-Compliance

• Fines: For illegal ads or operating without a license
• License Revocation: For repeated violations
• Advertising Bans: Temporary or permanent suspensions
• Litigation: Operators are liable for affiliate misconduct

Avoiding Spanish law is risky. The government actively pursues offenders with legal actions and fines.

Market Outlook & Growth Drivers

2024 saw strong Q1 growth thanks to:

• Major sports events
• Platform launches and upgrades
• Engaging bonus promotions

Online betting grew 31%, representing 42.9% of GGR. Casino gaming rose 17%, with live dealer formats and mobile slots leading the way. Future growth is expected from:

• Increased mobile penetration
• Rising esports and VR gambling
• Tech investments from global operators

Conclusion

Spain’s online gambling market combines high growth, strict oversight, and strong consumer interest. With transparent DGOJ regulation, regional licensing support, and a mobile-first user base, Spain offers fertile ground for fully licensed operators and SEO-savvy affiliates.

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