How to Open a Sports Betting Agency in Romania

I want to establish a sports betting agency in Bucharest. What is the law that governs the process of setting up such an agency in Romania?

The gambling activity in Romania knows a complex and rigorous regulation. GEO no. 77/2009 is one of the main legislative measures regulating this activity in Romania, as well as the establishment and development of gambling activity organizers.

The organizer of gambling activities is a legal entity authorized to organize and operate gambling activities under this ordinance. The sports betting agency is set up as a company under Law no. 31/1990 on companies. Also, in order to open a company as a sports betting agency, you will also need to open a bank acoount in Romania.

What are the necessary permits for a legal person who wants to organize and operate sports betting activities in Romania?

In order to perform the activity of organizing and operating sports betting, you are required to obtain both a license for organizing gambling and an operating authorization from the National Gambling Office (ONJN).

In addition, following changes adopted in February 2026, local councils may decide whether, and in which areas, gambling activities can be carried out in their locality, so the local rules should be checked before choosing the premises.

The law provides that the license for organizing gambling is granted to the economic operator if it fulfills the conditions for organizing betting activities and is valid for 10 years from the grant date, being subject to payment of an annual licensing fee.

The operating gambling authorization is valid for one year from the grant date and it is given differently depending on the type of gambling.

On what concerns sports betting activities, the operating authorization is granted for the form of the main game which carries out a unified organization and operation of each separate activity level of the organizer.

Regarding the companies organizing fixed odds betting, the fee for the authorization to operate gambling is calculated as a percentage of the revenue actually obtained from this activity (the participation fees collected less the winnings paid), but not less than the minimum level set by the above mentioned ordinance.

The establishment of a legal person involves determining preliminary aspects that define your future company, such as:

• request for the reservation of the company name - in this case, it is recommended to choose 3 options in order of preference;
• determining the object of activity of the company - identifying the activity of a legal person is made by choosing the CAEN code/codes related to the activities that you wish to be developed. Regarding the sports betting agency, you will require the CAEN code 9200 Activities of gambling and betting.
• drawing up the articles of association to determine crucial aspects of your company

How can our lawyers help you open a sports betting agency in Romania?

Opening a sports betting agency in Romania represents a complex and thorough process that requires obtaining various licenses and authorizations, along with determining the important aspects of your future company. The team of lawyers within the Darie, Manea & Associates law firm provides accurate and complete information, ensuring the successful establishment of the company that you desire. Trustingly contact us for a legal consultation on this matter!