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Spain has one of the most controlled online gambling markets in Europe. The country’s laws are detailed, strict, and closely monitored. Yet, instead of slowing the industry down, these rules have helped it grow responsibly. The Spanish iGaming market keeps expanding every year, proving that regulation and growth can go hand in hand.
Running an online casino in Spain is not just about getting a licence. It’s about understanding local laws, adapting to player behavior, and building a platform that can pass every technical and legal test. Below is a complete and simple guide on how operators can successfully enter and grow in Spain’s online gambling market.
Spain’s iGaming Market: A Strong Growth Story
Spain’s iGaming industry continues to rise each year. According to the 2024 data from the Directorate General for Gambling Regulation (DGOJ), the total Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) reached €1.45 billion, marking a 17.6% increase from the previous year.
The number of active players also went up, reaching nearly 2 million. Most of them are between 18 and 45 years old, with men making up about 83% of the player base. Deposits totalled €4.58 billion, while withdrawals reached €3.15 billion clear signs of user confidence in licensed platforms.
Casino games are leading the market, contributing around 50% of total GGR. Slots alone generated €472 million, followed by live roulette with €208 million. Sports betting is the second-biggest segment, bringing in €608 million in revenue.
Advertising spending by operators also jumped by 30%, reaching over €526 million. This included higher investments in bonuses, digital marketing, and affiliate promotions, boosted by new rulings that relaxed previous advertising limits.
Market analysts expect this growth to continue. By 2033, Spain’s gambling industry is projected to reach nearly €40 billion, growing at an annual rate of more than 18%.
Licensing and Legal Requirements
All online gambling activity in Spain is regulated by the DGOJ, which issues two types of licences:
- General Licence: Gives operators permission to offer gambling services in categories like betting, casino games, or contests. It’s valid for 10 years.
- Singular Licence: Covers specific games such as roulette, poker, or blackjack, valid for 3-5 years.
You can’t apply for a licence anytime; applications are only accepted during public tender periods announced by the DGOJ. Each operator must also maintain its own licence white-label setups are not allowed.
Costs and Guarantees:
- General Licence application fee – €38,000
- Singular Licence fee – €2,500 per game
- Financial guarantee – €2 million (can be reduced after two years of compliant operation)
Spain also charges a 20% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR). However, operators based in Ceuta or Melilla get a reduced 10% tax rate, which makes these regions highly attractive for setting up operations.
How to Get a Spanish Gambling Licence (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Establish a Local Presence
Foreign companies must register with Spain’s tax authority and open an office or appoint a local representative.
Step 2: Prove Financial Stability
Operators need to provide a bank guarantee of up to €2 million to show financial strength and protect player funds.
Step 3: Apply for a General Licence
Submit a business plan, technical documentation, and audited financial records during the official tender period.
Step 4: Apply for Singular Licences
Once you have the General Licence, apply separately for each game you want to offer.
Step 5: Maintain Compliance
Operators must follow data protection laws (GDPR), anti-money laundering policies (Law 10/2010), and regular audits to stay compliant.
Technical Standards and Platform Requirements
Spain has very specific technical and security rules for online casinos. To meet them, operators must:
- Use certified software and a Random Number Generator (RNG) approved by DGOJ.
- Host data on secure servers with real-time monitoring.
- Undergo audits every two years.
- Provide full transparency for every transaction and game round.
What Spanish Players Love
Spanish players enjoy fast-paced, interactive, and visually rich games. Online slots and live roulette are the top favourites, followed by sports betting and poker.
Mobile gaming is extremely popular, and players prefer platforms that offer:
- Quick deposits and withdrawals
- Simple user interface
- Instant payment options such as Bizum, PayPal, or Skrill
Card payments remain the most common method, but digital wallets are growing rapidly due to speed and ease of use.
Marketing Rules and Trends
After the Spanish Supreme Court relaxed some parts of the Royal Decree 958/2020 in 2024, operators can once again run digital campaigns, bonus offers, and influencer partnerships but within strict limits.
Total marketing spending rose to €525 million, with €203 million used for digital ads. The DGOJ still closely monitors promotional content to ensure it remains responsible and transparent.
Affiliate marketing continues to play a major role but now faces tougher compliance checks. Operators must ensure affiliates are registered and follow Spanish advertising standards to avoid penalties.
A successful marketing plan should include:
- Localised content for Spanish audiences
- Responsible advertising policies
- Balanced mix of SEO, influencer, and affiliate channels
Challenges and Opportunities
Spain’s gambling market offers major growth opportunities but demands complete dedication to compliance. The licensing process can be lengthy, technical, and expensive, which discourages smaller or unprepared operators.
However, this strictness also keeps the market clean and trustworthy. Only serious, well-prepared operators survive, which creates stability and long-term potential.
Since Spain bans white-label models, turnkey casino solutions from certified providers are becoming a smart entry route for new businesses. These solutions include everything licensing, compliance, and platform setup allowing new brands to launch faster and safer.
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