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Bulgaria faces strict new gambling advertisement ban under proposed law

Bulgarian politicians have proposed a new bill to ban almost all forms of gambling advertising and target unlicensed betting operators.

Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 9 September 2026

Bulgarian lawmakers have introduced a bill to eliminate remaining loopholes in the country's gambling advertising laws. The Democratic Bulgaria party submitted the proposal to the National Assembly on 9 September 2026. This move follows previous restrictions introduced earlier in the year which operators allegedly bypassed. The new rules aim to shut down almost every remaining channel for betting promotions.

Total ban on outdoor ads

Under the proposed legislation, outdoor advertising for gambling will be completely prohibited. This removes the current allowance that lets operators use up to five percent of an advertising provider's total space. Billboards, banners, flags, and advertising boards will all be banned. The current rule allowing billboards more than 300 metres away from schools and playgrounds will also be removed.

Targeting online channels

The ban will extend to websites, mobile applications, social media platforms, and online news services. Operators will also be barred from sending direct promotional messages through texts or emails. The law will broaden the definition of gambling ads to include product placement and any branding that closely resembles a betting operator. Any mandatory gambling risk warnings must be displayed in a clear and easily readable font.

Strict enforcement and crypto

Internet and hosting providers will face a strict 12 hour deadline to remove illegal advertising content once notified. The National Revenue Agency will gain the power to suspend access to online advertising services that repeatedly ignore these rules. Additionally, the bill targets unlicensed operators by banning cryptocurrency transfers to or from their platforms. Cash deposit terminals will also be blocked from funding online betting accounts before a user verifies their identity.