Are you feeling lucky? In Ireland, the land of 40 shades of green, casinos tell a story all their own. But of course, before you play, you’re going to have to get up close and personal with Irish casino rules.
Every jurisdiction has different rules, regulations, laws and nuances. So let’s find out what makes Ireland stand apart. Whether you live there or you’re thinking of visiting for a casino vacation, it pays to know what you’re up against before you play. So get packing, brush up on your casino etiquette and head to Ireland.
Get ready to enter Ireland’s private clubs…
Okay, we admit that Ireland’s gambling laws are a little complex. The Irish casino laws all stem from the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956. However, there are updates continuously in the works to keep up with modern times. As of now, casinos technically fall into a grey area. They operate as “private clubs” to skirt around strict legal definitions. Interesting workaround, right? But make sure you take note of any dress codes before you head to one of these clubs.
There are quite a few to choose from and the big cities like Dublin have a fairly lively scene. These clubs offer a cozy, albeit exclusive, atmosphere to test your luck. Just remember that you might need to register as a member first, but the process rarely takes too long. You should be able to complete it in the lobby when you go in.
Over 18s only
Although all private club casinos can make their own rules, generally speaking, it’s legal for anyone 18 or older to play casino games in Ireland. But don’t forget to carry ID with you if you do want to head to a gaming establishment. Security will ask and they stick pretty closely to the Irish casino rules.
Online play possibilities
Absolutely, online play is legal in Ireland and it’s booming. There are all the games you can imagine at your fingertips in Ireland and it’s all legal under Irish casino rules. As long as the site has the proper licensing, you’re good to go. So you can spin slots or go for 21 in blackjack wherever you are in the Emerald Isle. Of course, the minimum age of 18 for online gambling applies, and sites will ask for age verification. Speaking of, if you’re looking for a decent online casino that operates in Ireland, bet365 is a good shout. Plus you can use this bet365 bonus code when you sign up for a very juicy welcome offer.
Lots of different games to choose from
Irish casino rules certainly don’t limit your spirit of adventure. Slot machines, roulette, blackjack, poker and baccarat are all on the table. However, there is a catch with slot machines. They’re only allowed in licensed amusement halls or arcades, so you won’t find them in every back alley bar like in some other countries.
And the best bit? No taxes on winnings in Ireland
One of the sweetest things about Irish casino rules is that you’re not taxed on your winnings. That’s right, if you have a windfall, it all goes in your pocket and the tax man doesn’t get a sniff. However, you can be taxed on money you deposited and friends and family might be taxed if you gift them some cash from your betting win.
