Understanding the Gaming Licence and Gaming Machine Licence Application and Renewal Process in Ireland
In Ireland, operating gaming activities legally requires obtaining the appropriate licences from the National Excise Licence Office (NELO), part of the Office of the Revenue Commissioners. The official form for applying or renewing these licences is known as the Gaming Licence and Gaming Machine Licence Application Form / Renewal Form, with the code GameAp2. This document is essential for any individual or entity wishing to engage in gaming or operate gaming machines within the country.
Purpose and Scope of the Form
This official form serves multiple purposes:
- Applying for an annual or 3-month gaming licence and/or gaming machine licences
- Renewing existing licences before expiry
- Requesting additional gaming machine licences where permitted under the relevant Court Certificate and existing gaming licence
It is crucial to understand that trading without a valid excise licence is an offence under Irish law. Therefore, applicants must ensure they have secured the necessary Court Certificates and hold valid tax clearance before submitting their application.
Preparing Your Application
Key Requirements
- Court Certificate: A valid Court Certificate issued under Section 15 of the Gaming & Lotteries Act 1956 is mandatory. This certificate can be obtained from the relevant Court Office.
- Tax Clearance: A current, valid Tax Clearance Certificate from Revenue is required. The Revenue’s IT systems will verify your TCC status automatically; submission is not necessary with the application.
- Application Form Completion: Fill out the form carefully in BLOCK CAPITALS, ensuring all sections are completed accurately. Do not enclose payment at this stage.
Information Needed
| Field | Details to Provide |
|---|---|
| Gaming Licence Reference Number | Leave blank if applying for a new licence |
| Licensee Name | As per Court Certificate |
| Trading Name | Business or trading name, if applicable |
| Address | Principal Office or Business Address, including Eircode |
| Details of Licence Type | Specify whether applying for an Annual or 3-Month licence, and the relevant expiry date |
Submitting the Application
Once completed, the application must be sent to the NELO at the following address:
National Excise Licence Office Office of the Revenue Commissioners Anne Street Wexford Y35 E29K
It is important to note that payment should not be included with the initial application. Instead, the NELO will review your submission and issue a Pay Notice in due course. This notice will specify the amount payable and the payment methods available.
Paying and Finalising Your Licence
Payment Options
- Revenue On-Line Service (ROS): You can make your payment online via the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie or by calling the ROS Helpline at 01 738 3699.
- By Post: Use the payslip attached to the Pay Notice, payable by cheque or bank draft made out to the Collector General. Remember, cash payments are not permitted.
After payment, your licence will be issued, allowing you to legally operate gaming activities or machines in Ireland.
Fill in your form directly online
No printing: type your details into the boxes of the official form, tick, then download the PDF ready to send.
- 1Type into the form boxes
- 2Tick in one click
- 3Save and download the PDF
Additional Guidance and Contacts
Applicants should ensure they hold the correct Court Certificates and understand the legal framework under the Gaming & Lotteries Act 1956. For further assistance, the Revenue Commissioners provide contact options:
- Phone (within Ireland): 01 738 3640
- Phone (outside Ireland): +353 1 702 3030
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.revenue.ie
It is advisable to consult the official guidance notes overleaf of the application form for detailed instructions and legal obligations. Ensuring compliance with all legal requirements is essential to avoid penalties and to maintain lawful gaming operations in Ireland.