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iGN x 4H: Overview of Lithuania’s iGaming Licensing Framework

iGN x 4H: Overview of Lithuania’s iGaming Licensing Framework

The iGN editorial team, together with experts from 4H Agency, has prepared an analysis of Lithuania’s licensing model, which operates under a two-tier system: an operator receives a primary licence to offer gambling services and then obtains a permit for each specific activity vertical.

Online Gambling (Permanent)

  • Licence — ~€580,000
  • Activity permit — ~€1,000
  • Game rules approval — ~€1,230
  • Reserve fund — ~€83,700
  • Minimum share capital — ~€1.34M (online casino), ~€335K (online betting, totalizator, slots, bingo), ~€167K (online horse racing bets)
  • The two-tier licensing structure ensures an organised and consistent process

Taxes and Validity Periods

  • Primary licence — permanent (valid until revoked by the regulator or voluntarily surrendered)
  • Activity permits — valid for 5 years (online gambling permits are permanent)
  • 22% GGR — gambling tax
  • 15% of player winnings — winnings tax

Applicant Requirements

  • Only companies registered in an EU Member State with a representative office in Lithuania are eligible
  • Mandatory background checks for executives, deputies, customer support staff, shareholders, board members, and individuals responsible for financial reporting
  • Depth of checks depends on staff size: up to 30 employees — all; 31–100 — at least 30 employees; over 100 — at least 30% of staff
  • Gaming equipment and software must be hosted in Lithuania, another EU/EEA country, or Switzerland
  • Mandatory player identification and registration for online casinos
  • Compliance certificates for all websites and gaming equipment from accredited organisations

Market Features

  • High level of transparency and consistent regulatory practices
  • From 1 January 2028, a full ban on gambling advertising will come into effect, including sponsorships (exception: the operator’s name and logo on its own website as a neutral informational reference)

According to 4H, Lithuania’s licensing model stands out due to the permanent nature of the primary licence and the possibility of comprehensive licensing. Strong oversight mechanisms combined with clear rules make the market attractive for international operators.

Lithuania offers a mature and balanced market with defined rules and stable EU legislation, suitable for long-term operations by major iGaming companies.