TLDR
- Bulgaria’s cabinet approved a draft bill on November 11 banning gambling ads across all media.
- Online operators would pay a monthly state fee of at least EUR 100,000.
- Banks and payment firms handling gambling transactions would have to make financial contributions.
- Operators’ systems would link directly to the National Revenue Agency.
- Parliament rejected a similar plan in July 2026 and must still approve this one.
Bulgaria’s government has approved a second attempt at tougher gambling rules, months after Parliament turned down a similar plan. The Council of Ministers backed the draft amendments on November 11, and the bill now goes to lawmakers.
The package combines a full ban on gambling ads with higher taxes, fees and new reporting rules. It also brings banks and payment firms into the system through new financial contributions.
Ad Ban Covers TV, Radio and Online
The proposed ban applies to ads for gambling products, licensed operators and their brands. It would cover television, radio, print, online platforms and outdoor advertising.
Gambling companies could still sponsor sports clubs, federations, associations and other groups. Sponsorships in culture, health and education would also be allowed.
However, the government wants to limit how those sponsorships appear in TV broadcasts and online coverage of events. The bill would also end the work of affiliate marketers who promote gambling products through third-party channels.
The government said current ad limits have not done enough to reduce exposure. It said the new rules aim to reduce gambling harm, especially among children and other vulnerable groups.
Higher Costs for Operators and Payment Firms
Land-based casinos and gaming halls would face higher taxes starting in 2027. In 2028, those charges would be replaced by a two-part state fee with a fixed payment and a variable part tied to betting turnover and payouts.
Online operators would pay a variable monthly state fee of at least EUR 100,000, or about $110,781. Licensing fees, social responsibility contributions and fines for rule breaches would also rise.
Companies that make, import, distribute or service gaming equipment would need new licenses. A five-year license would cost EUR 50,000, about $55,392, while a ten-year license would cost EUR 100,000.
Banks, payment institutions and electronic money providers handling gambling transactions would also have to make financial contributions. Money from responsible gambling contributions would be split equally between the ministries of sport, health and education.
Foreign online gambling firms would need a permanent business presence in Bulgaria. The government said this would improve tax reporting and let officials compare declared revenue with betting activity and player payouts.
The bill also calls for electronic links between operators’ gaming systems and the National Revenue Agency. This would give authorities data on bets, payouts and gaming revenue.
Schools and other educational institutions could receive prevention programs, information campaigns and learning materials on gambling addiction. These measures are part of the same legislative package.
In July 2026, Parliament rejected an earlier plan for a blanket ad ban and higher taxes. Concerns were raised at the time about the impact on licensed operators and the risk of pushing players to unregulated sites.
In September, Prime Minister Rumen Radev said the government would renew its push for stricter rules. He pointed to ad curbs, higher taxes and tighter controls on gambling-related financial activity.
The draft must now be approved by Parliament before it can become law. The Council of Ministers has forwarded the amendments to lawmakers for review.
