The UK gambling sector is facing another rise in regulatory costs after the Government confirmed a 25% increase in most Gambling Commission licence fees from 1 October 2026.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) announced the changes following a consultation on how to fund the UK Gambling Commission’s expanding responsibilities. The final decision rejected earlier proposals, which included a 20% rise, a 30% increase, or a 20% increase with an additional 10% specifically allocated to tackling illegal gambling.
The new structure will apply to most operating licence fees, applications, first annual fees, personal licences, licence variations, supplementary licences and changes of corporate control. Society lotteries will be an exception, with their fees remaining unchanged.
The Government said the adjustment is designed to provide the regulator with the resources needed to manage a growing workload, including reforms linked to the Gambling Act Review, improved technology systems and stronger enforcement against unlicensed operators.
The rise comes during a period of increased financial pressure for gambling companies in Britain. Operators are already adapting to wider regulatory changes, including the introduction of the statutory levy for gambling harm research, prevention and treatment, alongside ongoing discussions around tax levels.
Industry representatives have warned that additional costs could create further challenges for licensed businesses, particularly as they continue competing against offshore operators. However, regulators argue that stable funding is necessary to maintain effective oversight of the market.
The Gambling Commission is expected to provide further guidance to operators ahead of the new fees taking effect, including details on updated fee categories and individual licence classifications.