IndustriesGambling

Legal support for the gambling industry

We represent and advise gambling operators in licensing procedures, in meeting anti-money laundering and responsible gaming obligations, in advertising and in transactions.

3–6 monthsthe usual duration of the licensing procedure
2020the Gambling Act in force, as amended in 2024
4competent authorities an operator deals with regularly
Industry overview

Regulatory framework and supervision

The Republic of Serbia has a developed legal framework for gambling that also covers electronic channels. The number of licensed operators is growing, and with it the scope of supervision.

Regulatory attention in recent years has focused on responsible gaming, anti-money laundering and the protection of minors. Those are the areas in which supervision most often identifies shortcomings.

Gambling ActLicensing conditions, categories of games and penalties.
Gambling AdministrationIssuing, renewing and revoking licences and conducting supervision.
Anti-money launderingOperators are high-risk obliged entities with reporting duties.
Data protectionApplication of the Serbian act and the GDPR to player data, including the DPO function.
AdvertisingRestrictions on content and channels and prohibitions towards minors.
Technical certificationTesting of software and games before licence issue and renewal.
Our services

Most common areas of support

Six areas in which operators most often ask for legal support.

01

Licensing

  • Selecting the licence type according to the business model and sales channels.
  • Preparing the application and the corporate and financial documentation.
  • Coordinating technical certification of software and games.
  • Responding to requests for further information and representation through to a decision.
  • Licence renewal and notification of changes during its term.
02

Anti-money laundering and know your customer programmes

  • Drafting an AML policy and procedures tailored to the operator.
  • Setting up the customer due diligence flow for registration and payouts.
  • Rules on monitoring and reporting suspicious transactions.
  • Staff training and appointment of the compliance officer.
  • Preparing for inspection and responding to findings.
03

Player data protection

  • Records of processing, privacy policies and legal bases.
  • Contracts with processors and payment service providers.
  • Handling player rights requests and incidents.
  • Transfers of data to third countries.
  • External data protection officer where required.
04

Game rules and terms of use

  • Terms of use, game rules and bonus terms.
  • Responsible gaming and self-exclusion policy.
  • Rules on limiting and closing accounts.
  • Player complaints and out-of-court dispute resolution.
  • Alignment with consumer protection rules.
05

Advertising and promotions

  • Review of creative material and messaging before a campaign goes live.
  • Rules for affiliates and influencer cooperation.
  • Restrictions towards minors and vulnerable groups.
  • Prize competitions and promotional mechanics.
  • Responding to complaints and supervisory orders.
06

Transactions and restructuring

  • Regulatory due diligence of the operator and the platform.
  • Transaction structure and conditions tied to the licence.
  • Regulatory approvals and notification of changes in ownership.
  • Transfer of contracts with suppliers and payment institutions.
  • Post-closing alignment of operations.
How we work

What working with us looks like

Four stages, from regulatory analysis to ongoing support.

01

Regulatory analysis

We establish which licences, approvals and documents the proposed business model requires.

02

Documentation

We prepare contracts, internal acts and policies and coordinate procedures before the competent authorities.

03

Implementation

We represent the client in proceedings and negotiations through to a decision or the signing of the contract.

04

Ongoing support

We track legislative changes, supervisory procedures and the obligations that arise during operations.

Common questions

Questions clients ask

Is electronic gambling permitted in the Republic of Serbia?

It is, under a licence issued by the Gambling Administration. The act governs all channels, including online casino, sports betting and poker. Operating without a licence is punishable.

How long does the licensing procedure take?

It usually takes three to six months, depending on the licence type and the completeness of the documentation. Deficiencies in the application are the most common cause of delay.

What anti-money laundering obligations does an operator have?

The operator must verify players, monitor transactions, report to the competent authority and carry out regular internal controls. Operators are classified as high-risk obliged entities.

Is a licence transferred on a change of ownership?

It is not transferred automatically. A change in the ownership structure requires the approval of the competent authority, which is agreed as a condition of the transaction.

What is most often checked in supervision?

Anti-money laundering and player verification documentation, responsible gaming records, compliance of promotional material and certificates for software and games.

Next step

How can we help?

Describe your matter and we will point you to the lawyer who leads that industry.

Contact us
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