New iGaming Regulations in 2025 – What Romanian Players Abroad Need to Know

In recent years, the gambling market in Romania has developed significantly. With increasing digitalization and new regulations coming into effect in 2025, important changes arise for Romanian players residing abroad. This article highlights the current regulations and provides an overview of what Romanian citizens abroad should keep in mind when engaging in online gambling.

The Romanian Gambling Authority ONJN and Its Role

The Romanian gambling authority, Oficiul Național pentru Jocuri de Noroc (ONJN), is the central regulatory body for all gambling activities in Romania. Since its establishment in 2013, the ONJN has created a comprehensive licensing system that applies to both land-based and online operators.
In 2025, the ONJN has further strengthened its supervisory role and introduced new guidelines that are also relevant for Romanian players abroad. The authority is responsible for granting licenses, monitoring legal compliance, and ensuring player protection.

Legal Situation for Romanian Players Abroad

For Romanian citizens residing abroad, the question often arises as to which gambling services they can legally use. Within the European Union, Romanians generally enjoy the freedom to access services. This means they can use gambling services in other EU countries, provided these are legal under the respective national laws.
Unlike Germany, where strict restrictions apply, Romanian regulations are more market-oriented. Romanian players are allowed to use platforms with an EU license, as long as these operate legally under local laws. This opens up a wider range of legal options. For instance, cazinouristraine.com reviews several casinos that hold licenses from reputable authorities.

New Player Protection Measures in 2025

Player protection has taken on a greater importance under the new regulations. A major innovation is the introduction of the “Single Account” principle for self-exclusion.
In March 2025, the ONJN stipulated that players who self-exclude with one operator must automatically be excluded from all platforms belonging to the same operator. This closes an important loophole in the player protection system and prevents players from simply moving to another platform owned by the same provider.
In contrast to the strict German regulations, Romania applies a less restrictive approach to responsible gambling. Although in 2024 responsible gambling tools—such as deposit limits and self-exclusion—became mandatory, they remain optional for players to use.

Technological Developments and Their Impact

The digitalization of gambling in Romania continues to advance, affecting the experiences of Romanian players abroad:

Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Technology
An important aspect for Romanians abroad is the ONJN’s stance on cryptocurrencies. In 2025, digital currencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum are not permitted for gambling transactions under Romanian law. The ONJN does not allow deposits, withdrawals, or in-game transactions using digital currencies.
However, workarounds such as external crypto-to-fiat exchange platforms are tolerated, provided that:

• The exchange process takes place entirely outside the gambling platform

• Deposits are made through a licensed fiat payment provider

• The operator does not promote or facilitate the exchange option

For Romanian players abroad, this means they cannot legally play on platforms that exclusively accept cryptocurrencies.

Mobile Optimization and Live Casino Offers

Romanian players abroad can benefit from a growing number of mobile-optimized platforms offering seamless experiences on smartphones and tablets. Live casino formats with Romanian-speaking dealers are particularly popular. Many international platforms now provide dedicated areas for Romanian players, allowing them to communicate in their native language.

Practical Tips for Romanian Players Abroad

For Romanian citizens wishing to gamble online while abroad, the following points are especially important:

• Check licenses: Make sure the operator holds a valid license, whether from Romania or another EU country.

• Language settings: Choose platforms that offer Romanian as a language option—this not only makes usage easier but also indicates a focus on Romanian customers.

• Payment methods: Use payment solutions that are accepted in both Romania and your country of residence to avoid transaction issues.

• Tax obligations: Familiarize yourself with the tax laws in both Romania and your country of residence to ensure compliance.

• Player protection tools: Even though Romania is less restrictive, it is advisable to set personal limits and gamble responsibly.
  

Conclusion

In summary, Romania’s 2025 iGaming regulations provide Romanian players abroad with a relatively liberal framework, in clear contrast to the stricter rules found in countries like Germany. While this means greater freedom to play, it also requires a higher level of personal responsibility. With proper knowledge of the current regulations, Romanian citizens can enjoy safe and legal online gambling even while living abroad.