Greece has confirmed its decision to increase taxes on online casino winnings, a move that will affect players’ net returns and aims to boost funding for public services.
Kyriakos Pierrakakis, Greece’s Finance Minister, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the higher tax rate on online casino winnings despite concerns from some players and industry stakeholders. The tax adjustment is designed to increase revenues that support public services across the country.
Data published in October 2026 shows that the Greek government withheld €369 million (3307 million) in taxes from gambling winnings between January and August 2026. This amount represents a 27.3% increase compared to the €290 million collected during the same period in 2025. The rise in tax revenue aligns with an increase in total gross gaming revenue (GGR), which has also grown over the year.
For players, the tax increase means a larger portion of their online casino winnings will be deducted before payout. While the overall GGR growth suggests more betting activity or higher stakes, the net amount players receive after tax will be reduced. This change directly impacts players’ potential earnings and should be factored into their gambling budgets and expectations.
The tax specifically targets online casino game winnings, which may influence player behavior and preferences. Some players might reconsider their participation levels or shift their focus to other forms of gambling not subject to the same tax treatment. It is important for consumers to understand their tax obligations to avoid unexpected liabilities during tax reporting periods.
Besides generating government revenue, the increased tax could indirectly support responsible gambling initiatives and player protection programs funded by public services. However, the tax itself does not alter the inherent risks associated with gambling, so players are encouraged to continue practicing caution and seek help if gambling causes harm.
Greece’s approach contrasts with other European countries that have varied tax regimes on gambling winnings. For example, some jurisdictions tax gross gaming revenue at the operator level, while others tax player winnings directly. Players active in multiple markets should stay informed about differing tax rules to manage their liabilities effectively.
More details on Greece’s tax policy on gambling winnings can be found in the original SBC News report here. For broader insights into European gambling regulations and player protections, visit GamblingNews.today Europe. Additionally, players interested in understanding betting taxes can explore the Betting section on GamblingNews.today.
Players concerned about gambling harm may also find useful resources and updates on support measures at Responsible Gambling. Staying informed about tax changes and responsible gambling practices helps players make better decisions and manage their gambling activities more safely.
In related news, other countries are also adjusting gambling regulations and tax policies. For instance, Spain recently implemented Royal Decree 813/2026, requiring operators to match every payment method to the player, enhancing compliance and security measures. More on this can be found at iGaming Business.
Meanwhile, Brazil faces challenges with its online gambling ban, affecting football betting markets and prompting government discussions on regulatory frameworks. Details are available in the SBC News report here. These developments highlight the importance for players to stay updated on gambling laws and tax policies in their respective countries.
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