Georgia Proposes Foreign-Only Online Gambling Licences

Georgia has unveiled draft legislation to create a new licensing category for international online gambling operators that serve only foreign players. The proposed amendments to the law “On the Organisation of Lotteries, Gambling and Profitable Games” were submitted to the Georgian parliament under an accelerated legislative process. These changes aim to establish dedicated licences for operators offering online slots and sports betting exclusively to customers outside Georgia.

This move introduces a clear regulatory framework for international operators wishing to base their services in Georgia while targeting foreign markets. The new licence category would impose a 5% gambling tax on operators, which is comparatively low in the global context. This tax rate could incentivize more operators to establish a presence in Georgia, potentially increasing the variety of online gambling options available to players abroad.

For consumers outside Georgia, this development may lead to a broader selection of licensed online gambling platforms. However, it is important to note that these operators would be restricted from serving players within Georgia, maintaining a separation between domestic and international markets. Georgian players will continue to access gambling services under the existing national regulations, which remain unchanged by this legislation.

The legislation’s focus on foreign-only licences raises important considerations regarding consumer protection and responsible gambling measures for players outside Georgia. While the law aims to regulate operators more effectively, players should remain vigilant and choose platforms that provide transparent information on player safeguards, fair play, and responsible gambling tools.

This draft law forms part of Georgia’s broader strategy to modernize its gambling sector and attract international business. Operators licensed under this new regime will need to balance the 5% tax with competitive offers such as bonuses and payment terms, which could influence the overall player experience. Players should monitor how these factors evolve as the legislation moves forward.

As the bill progresses through parliament, bettors and players outside Georgia should watch for changes in the availability and quality of online gambling services licensed under this new category. Meanwhile, local players will continue to benefit from protections under the existing Georgian gambling framework.

For further information, see the original report on SBC News. Related updates on European gambling taxation and licensing can be found in coverage by SBC News, while discussions on player protection in the UK are available via The Guardian.

On the Organisation of Lotteries, Gambling and Profitable Games” is the law under which these amendments are proposed.

Players interested in international online gambling options should follow these regulatory developments closely, especially regarding licensing requirements, taxation, and responsible gambling safeguards. For more information on online gambling regulation and player protection, visit our Online Gambling and Player Protection sections.

David Rossi