What types of games are allowed under the Estonian license?
The Estonian gambling license covers a wide range of gambling activities, allowing operators to offer various types of games, subject to regulatory approval. These include:
- Online and Land-based Casinos: Including slots, table games, and live dealer games.
- Sports Betting[1]: Both pre-match and in-play betting on various sports events.
- Lotteries: Traditional lotteries, instant lotteries, and lottery draws.
- Bingo: Both online and in bingo halls.
- Poker: Including tournaments and cash games, available online and in physical venues.
These game types are regulated to ensure fair play[2], integrity, and the protection of players. Operators must comply with specific rules and standards for each type of game.
Overview
Estonia offers a comprehensive regulatory framework[3] for various types of gambling activities, allowing operators to offer a wide range of games under specific licenses. The Estonian Tax and Customs Board oversees the licensing process, ensuring that all gambling activities comply with national regulations.This document outlines the types of games permitted under the Estonian gambling license.
Online Casino Games
Under the Estonian license, operators can offer a variety of online casino games, including slots, table games (such as roulette, blackjack, baccarat), and video poker. Live dealer games are also permitted, providing players with a real-time casino experience.These games must ensure fairness and transparency[5], with outcomes determined by Random Number Generators (RNGs) certified by approved testing agencies.
Sports Betting
Sports betting, including pre-match and in-play betting on a variety of sports and events, is allowed under the Estonian gambling license. Operators must provide fair odds and ensure that all betting activities adhere to integrity standards to prevent match-fixing and betting fraud.Betting on virtual sports and e-sports is also permitted, subject to regulatory approval and compliance[6] with fairness guidelines.
Lotteries
The operation of lotteries, including traditional draw-based games, instant lotteries, and scratch cards, is allowed under the Estonian license. Lotteries must be conducted transparently, with clear rules and equal chances of winning for all participants.A portion of lottery revenues is often allocated to support public or charitable causes, in line with regulatory requirements.
Poker and Bingo
Poker, including tournaments and cash games, and bingo can be offered by licensed operators. These games may be provided online or in physical venues, with regulations ensuring the protection of players and the integrity of the games.Operators offering poker and bingo must comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and responsible gambling[7] policies.
Conclusion
The Estonian gambling license allows for a diverse range of gambling activities, catering to various player preferences and market demands. Compliance with Estonia's regulatory standards is crucial for operators to maintain their license and provide services legally within the country.Operators are encouraged to adhere to best practices in game fairness[8], player protection[9], and responsible gambling to ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming environment for all participants.
- Betting — The act of wagering money on the outcome of events, such as sports matches or horse races.
- Fair Play — The principle that gambling games are operated in a manner that is fair, transparent, and free from manipulation.
- Regulatory Framework — A set of regulations and guidelines established by authorities that govern the operation of financial markets and instruments.
- Casino Games — Games of chance played in casinos, including slot machines, roulette, blackjack, and poker.
- Transparency — The characteristic of blockchain technology that allows all transactions to be visible and verifiable by all network participants.
- Compliance — The act of adhering to legal standards and regulations established by governmental bodies and regulatory agencies, particularly in the context of financial operations and transactions involving cryptocurrencies.
- Responsible Gambling — Initiatives and practices aimed at promoting safe and controlled gambling, preventing gambling addiction, and protecting vulnerable players.
- Game Fairness — The assurance that gambling games are designed and operated in a way that provides all players with an equal chance of winning.
- Player Protection — Measures and policies implemented to safeguard the interests and well-being of players, including age verification, self-exclusion programs, and limits on deposits.
- Estonian Tax and Customs Board. (n.d.). Types of gambling activities regulated in Estonia.
- Gambling Act. (n.d.). Overview of permissible gambling activities.
