4H AGENCY
This market overview was prepared by Ivan Kurochkin, Head of Eastern Europe Desk, Partner and one of the founders of 4H Agency.
After 10+ years’ experience in consulting every type of clients from the testing laboratories to global operators and B2B providers on a variety of matters related to the gambling operations, Ivan has proven himself to be a business- oriented
multi-jurisdictional advisor for entering new markets across the globe. His background helps him to choose the best and most efficient scenarios for expansion to new market or for bringing existing operations of the Agency’s clients to a significantly new level.
If you are considering venturing into the markets of CIS countries or seeking expert advice on navigating the complexities of the gambling industry, Ivan is the go-to person. Take action now and reach out to Ivan to explore how 4H Agency can support your endeavours in the vibrant and evolving landscape of the CIS region.
4H Agency is a global gambling advisory. We provide expert guidance to B2C operators and B2B providers, spanning market insights, payments, product localisation, regulations, licensing, public affairs, and more.
ik@4h.agency
t.me/Ivan_Kurochkin https://4h.agency
1. Vorarlberg – initially 3 years, later 5 years. Te cost includes:
u
Bank guarantee in the amount of at least ~US$ 87,000 for 50 or more establishments and increases by ~US$ 58,000 for each additional 50 establishments.
u
For establishments with a betting terminal, the guarantee increases by ~US$ 11,600 per terminal.
2. Salzburg – initially 2 years, later 5 years. Te cost includes:
u
Proof of economic capacity for practicing as a sports betting operator in amount of at least ~US$ 350,800.
u
Proof of economic capacity for practicing as a totalizator or betting agent in amount of at least ~US$ 117,000.
u
Upper Austria – unlimited term. Te cost includes bank guarantee in the amount of ~US$ 234,000.
u
Lower Austria – 10 years. Te cost includes bank guarantee in the amount of ~US$ 176,000.
Tyrol – term varies on a case-by-case basis. Te cost includes bank guarantee in the amount of at least ~US$ 176,000. Land-based casinos – 15 years. Te cost
u
includes: u
u
Minimum share capital in amount of US$ 25,8m.
Bank guarantee or security bond (the amount and type shall be contained in the call for tenders, but at least 10% of the share capital).
u
Application fee in amount of ~US$ 11,700.
u License fee in amount of ~US$ 117,000.
Slot machines halls – term depends on the state regulations and tender call. Te cost
includes: u
Minimum share capital in amount of US$ 9,300 per slot machine.
u u
u
Bank guarantee or security bond (the amount and type shall be contained in the call for tenders, but at least 20% of the share capital).
u
Application and license fees shall be contained in the call for tenders in the relevant state.
KEY ADVERTISING RESTRICTIONS
Gambling advertising must follow responsible-marketing standards. It cannot target children or young people, use youth-culture elements, involve minors as actors, or be placed near schools and kindergartens. Advertising should promote only moderate play and must avoid engaging individuals with known problematic gambling behaviour, including through direct marketing.
Tere are also following advertising rules: u
Advertising must not mislead about game mechanics, probabilities of winning, potential gains, or the effects of gambling. It should not create unrealistic expectations, portray gambling as a solution to financial or personal problems, or position it as an investment.
Promotions must include accurate payout information and referenced winning odds and must not encourage chasing losses or glorify risky play.
u
Credits or starting bonuses must not be presented as winnings if conditions apply. Direct marketing should avoid distributing vouchers offering gambling credit.
Sponsorship activities must follow the same responsible-advertising principles as general gambling advertising.
LOCAL MARKET SPECIFICS
Austria remains one of the most complex and tightly regulated gambling markets in Europe. Its regulatory framework is fragmented across regions, combining federal and provincial competences, which creates overlapping requirements and significant administrative challenges for operators B2B providers are not directly licensed in Austria; however, technical certification remains mandatory. Market access is further constrained by monopolies in key verticals – particularly online casinos – and by closed tender procedures in other verticals that limit the entry of new competitors.
At the same time, the Austrian government is moving toward a major reform. In 2025, lawmakers announced plans to end the long-standing online casino monopoly held by Casinos Austria and introduce a new licensing regime for online gambling. Te reform aims to replace the single-license model with a competitive, multi-operator framework, aligning Austria more closely with other regulated EU markets. However, uncertainties remain, especially around pending player refund lawsuits against former grey-market operators, which may affect eligibility for future licenses. Despite these challenges, the planned liberalisation represents a significant opportunity. A transparent, open licensing system could bring legal clarity, stabilise the market, and attract established international brands. While Austria remains an expensive and highly regulated jurisdiction, the ongoing reforms signal potential for sustainable growth and a gradual modernisation of its gambling landscape.
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