Hungary operates under a highly regulated gambling framework governed by Act XXXIV of 1991 on Gambling Operations, known as the Gambling Act, which oversees both land-based and online gambling activities (1). The Supervisory Authority for Regulatory Affairs, commonly known as SARA, serves as the primary regulatory body responsible for overseeing all gambling operations in Hungary (1). For land-based casino games, including poker with more than 10 tables, Hungary employs a concession system that permits a maximum of 12 land-based casinos throughout the country (1). The history of gambling in Hungary dates back to 1777 when Empress Maria Theresa of Austria introduced the first state-run lottery, and the country's first land-based gambling venue, the Nemzeti Casino in Pest (Budapest), opened in 1827 (2).
Online casino gaming, which includes online poker, faces significant restrictions under Hungarian law. Online casino operations remain tightly controlled, accessible only to those with an existing land-based casino concession (2). This means new entrants can only engage in online casino operations if they possess or obtain a land-based casino concession, effectively limiting online poker availability to state-controlled entities and their licensed partners (2). Despite reforms in January 2023 that ended the state monopoly on online sports betting and opened it to private operators from the European Economic Area, online casino operations continue to face the highest barriers to entry in Europe (2).
"Contrary to the liberalisation of sports betting, online casino gaming remains tightly controlled. New entrants can only engage in online casino operations if they possess or obtain a land-based casino concession."
The Hungarian government maintains strict enforcement measures against unlicensed gambling operations. SARA actively blocks websites of international operators and maintains a register of prohibited payment accounts to prevent transactions with unauthorized gambling sites (1). Payment service providers are prohibited from executing transactions linked to illegal gambling activities, and they must reject payment transactions made with bank cards relating to foreign gambling operations conducted through the internet (1). The Authority of Regulated Activities (SZTFH) works in tandem with SARA to enforce regulatory guidelines, focusing on maintaining market integrity, protecting consumers, and preventing illegal activities (2). Violations can result in substantial fines ranging from HUF 1 million to HUF 100 million, website blocking, and confiscation of materials used for illegal gambling (1).
Source:
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/hungary
https://altenar.com/blog/gambling-laws-in-hungary-regulation-and-legality/
Last updated: 04-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
