Bulgaria has officially activated its affiliate licensing framework, requiring all affiliate companies operating in the country to obtain a licence and comply with the new rules. The Gambling Office of the National Revenue Agency (NRA) has instructed these companies to submit a declaration form detailing their web pages, mobile apps, and other services.
The declaration form is a key part of the licensing process, demanding a comprehensive description of the affiliate’s online presence, including any mobile applications that offer gambling-related services. This move is part of Bulgaria’s broader effort to regulate the gambling industry more tightly, ensuring that all parties involved in promoting gambling activities are accountable and operate within the legal framework.
Affiliate marketing has long been a grey area in many jurisdictions, with regulators increasingly turning their attention to the role affiliates play in driving traffic to gambling sites. Bulgaria’s decision to license affiliates aligns with a wider European trend where countries like Sweden and Germany have introduced similar requirements to bring more transparency and control to the sector.
For players in Bulgaria, this means that the affiliate sites they visit to find casino bonuses or sportsbook promotions will now be subject to official oversight. In practice, this could lead to more reliable and honest advertising, as affiliates will be legally bound to adhere to responsible gambling and advertising standards. However, players may also notice that some affiliate sites temporarily suspend operations while they complete the licensing process, potentially reducing the number of promotional offers available in the short term.
Looking ahead, affiliates that fail to secure a licence may face penalties or be forced to cease operations in Bulgaria, which could further consolidate the market around compliant operators. Players should stay informed about which affiliates are licensed to ensure they are using trustworthy sources for their gambling information.