Spain requires matching names on online gambling accounts and payment methods
Regulation1 min read
Spain’s new anti-money laundering rules require licensed online gambling operators to check that the gambling account holder and payment-method holder are the same. The rules took effect on 8 October for new accounts; existing customers have until 28 April 2027 to complete checks, and cannot withdraw winnings in the meantime. Operators must close accounts that remain unmatched, notify the DGOJ and return balances, including withheld winnings.
Spain has reportedly introduced anti-money laundering rules requiring licensed online gambling operators to verify that gambling accounts and payment methods have the same holder. The requirement covers bank cards, bank accounts and electronic wallets used for deposits, payments and withdrawals.
The rules took effect for new accounts on 8 October, while existing customers have until 28 April 2027 to complete checks. Existing customers can continue to deposit and play during verification, but cannot withdraw winnings until the checks are complete.
If account and payment-method holders do not match by 28 April, operators must close the account, notify the DGOJ and return the balance, including any winnings withheld. Operators must adapt their systems and check cases where customers use payment methods held by relatives or other people.