Online casinos are legal in Croatia, but they operate under strict government regulation and licensing requirements. The Games of Chance Act serves as the primary legislation governing all gambling activities in the country, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework that has been in effect since 2009 with subsequent amendments. (1) Only companies incorporated in Croatia that hold appropriate licenses issued by the Government of the Republic of Croatia can legally organize gambling games, including online casino operations.
The Ministry of Finance and their Department for Games of Chance oversee all gambling regulation in Croatia, ensuring that operators comply with stringent licensing requirements and operational standards. (2) To obtain an online casino license, operators must first establish a physical presence in Croatia and meet substantial financial requirements, including minimum share capital of approximately €530,891 and annual licensing fees of €398,168 for online operations.
"Operating gambling in the territory of the Republic of Croatia is the right of the Republic of Croatia and such games may be operated pursuant to the Act, the decision of the Government of the Republic of Croatia and the approval of the Ministry of Finance."
Croatian law takes a firm stance against unlicensed gambling operators, with the Tax Administration actively blocking unauthorized foreign gambling websites that attempt to serve Croatian players without proper licensing. Players who participate in offshore gambling can face fines ranging from €1,320 to €6,630, while unlicensed operators face much more severe penalties including imprisonment up to eight years for repeated offences. (1) The regulatory system ensures that licensed operators contribute to state revenues through taxes and fees, which are allocated to support sports, culture, education, and addiction prevention programs.
Source:
https://porezna-uprava.gov.hr/en/unauthorized-performing-of-economic-activity-online/7393
https://www.legal500.com/guides/chapter/croatia-gambling-law/
Last updated: 26-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
