The Lithuanian government has announced a major change in its gambling regulations: starting mid-2025, the minimum legal age for participating in casinos—both online and land-based—will increase from 18 to 21 years old. This move aims to better protect young people from gambling risks and promote a more responsible gaming industry. Under the new rules, anyone under 21 will no longer be allowed to legally play slots, place bets, or visit casinos. The only exception will be the national lottery, which will continue to be accessible to those 18 and older. The authorities hope this step will limit the exposure of young people, who are often the most vulnerable to developing gambling problems.
In addition to raising the age limit, the reform strengthens player protection measures. Casino operators and online platforms will be required to implement effective identification and monitoring systems. If signs of problematic gambling are detected, operators will be obliged to temporarily restrict access. The main goal is to prevent gambling addiction and create a safer environment for all players.
The new rules are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, which means that by this summer, people aged 18 to 20 will need to refrain from participating in gambling activities. Platforms are preparing for inspections and updating their internal procedures, while players will need to adjust to the new restrictions. For the gambling industry, the reform signals the need for significant adjustments. Operators must enhance verification systems, strengthen security measures, and ensure full compliance with state regulations. The changes push the industry toward higher standards of responsibility and transparency.
For players, the new policy offers a safer and more controlled gaming experience. Young people gain added protection against the risks of early exposure to gambling, while the market benefits from improved transparency and security. Experts, however, caution that the effectiveness of the reforms will depend on how strictly operators and players follow the rules.
Overall, Lithuania is taking a decisive step in shaping its gambling regulatory framework. Raising the legal gambling age to 21 will be one of the key measures in this strategy. While the true impact will become clear over time, the country is already demonstrating a commitment to creating a safer and more regulated gambling environment.
