Italy to slash online gambling licenses from 407 to 52

Italy will reduce the number of licensed online gambling operators from 407 to 52 starting November 13, 2025, in a move aimed at tightening regulation, improving player protection, and streamlining competition in the country’s €21 billion ($24.43 billion) online gaming market.

The overhaul, introduced by the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), will limit each license to a single website, effectively ending the widespread use of so-called “skin” websites, which are third-party platforms that resell products from authorized operators. Currently, more than 350 of Italy’s 407 active gambling sites operate as skins, including 315 domestic and 92 foreign platforms.

Under the new framework, 46 companies will hold the 52 licenses, as some operators run multiple brands. For example, Flutter Entertainment oversees Betfair Exchange, Snaitech, and Sisal under its Italian domain. Industry experts say the restriction on skin betting may create a more level playing field for smaller entrants, who will now face just 51 direct competitors instead of hundreds.

Bettors will also face new requirements under the updated rules. Players must accept revised terms and establish personal deposit and wager limits beginning November 13. Operators are required to display banners prompting users to set these limits, with six months to comply. Accounts of players who fail to do so will be suspended, although they can reactivate their accounts within three years.

The ADM, in collaboration with state-owned tech hub SOGEI and the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), is introducing a “cyber security shield” to block unauthorized gambling domains on public internet devices such as PCs, kiosks, and tablets. 

Non-compliant operators may face fines, which can be increased if devices detect organized access attempts, and those encouraging access to illegal sites risk higher fines or criminal charges. Recently, 23 unauthorized domains were blocked, bringing the total blacklisted domains to 11,481.

Italy’s regulatory push mirrors measures taken in other European markets, such as the UK and the Netherlands, which are increasing oversight to mitigate financial risk and strengthen responsible gambling practices. The online gambling industry in Italy generates roughly €8 billion ($9.31 billion) in annual tax revenue,.