Reference: casinos in EstoniaLimits and self-exclusion in Estonia
Account limits, a temporary break, closing an account and self-exclusion each do a different job. Before choosing one, check when it takes effect and which services it covers. Below is the official self-exclusion process run by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board (EMTA), tools inside a particular operator's account are set out in that operator's rules.
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Types of restriction
Restrictions work at two levels. Some apply inside your account with one operator, others apply at every operator licensed in Estonia. Self-exclusion here means adding yourself to the national list of persons with restrictions on gambling, known in Estonian as HAMPI.
| Tool | What it does | Who sets it | Where it applies | Where to check the terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Account limit | Caps the amounts or time you can play | You, in account settings | Only with that operator | Operator's rules |
| Break | Temporarily blocks access to the account | You, or the operator at your request | Only with that operator | Operator's rules |
| Account closure | Stops use of the account | The operator at your request | Only with that operator | Operator's rules |
| Self-exclusion via EMTA | Adds you to the national list | Only you | All operators licensed in Estonia, for the game types you choose | EMTA page |
The first three tools work differently at each operator: duration, how to cancel, when they take effect. This page does not describe them because operators' rules have not been checked yet.
The official self-exclusion process
You can only restrict yourself: an application cannot be filed for another person, such as a family member or friend. There are four ways to set a restriction.
In the e-MTA e-services environment
In the e-MTA e-services environment, choose “Registers and inquiries” → “Registration” → “Registration of gambling restrictions”. The restriction takes effect no later than the day after the application. You log in with an electronic identity such as an ID card, Mobile-ID or Smart-ID.
By e-mail
An application by e-mail is accepted only with a digital signature (ID card, Mobile-ID, Smart-ID), unsigned e-mails are not accepted.
At an EMTA service bureau
At an EMTA service bureau you show an identity document (a copy is made) and fill in an application. The restriction takes effect within two working days at the latest. This route suits people who do not use Estonian e-identity. An English application form is linked on the EMTA page.
At a casino or toto venue
At a venue for games of chance or toto (for example a casino) you also need an identity document and an application. The operator forwards it to EMTA without delay, and EMTA registers the restriction within two working days of receiving it.
If your name is spelled differently in several valid documents, bring all of them and file a separate application for each spelling. You can check that the restriction is registered in e-MTA, in the same “Registration of gambling restrictions” section.
Timelines and scope
A restriction can cover games of chance (casino games, poker, tournaments), toto (sports betting) and classical lotteries. It cannot be set for instant lotteries.
The restriction has no end date, but when setting it you must choose a term of 6 to 36 months. After that term you can file a separate application to be removed from the list, the restriction does not end on its own.
Choose the term carefully
Setting a restriction is voluntary, once it is registered it cannot be changed or cancelled. You cannot shorten the term after registration.
Operators authorised in Estonia do not allow a person with a valid restriction to gamble. A remote operating permit for games of chance is granted only to a company whose connection to the gambling restriction list has been tested.
The official information describes how the list works for operators licensed in Estonia. How to check whether a particular site holds a licence is explained in the guide to checking an operator and its domain.
The restriction can be removed only after the chosen term: in e-MTA (no later than the day after the application) or at a service bureau (no later than the second working day).
Restrictions in an operator account
A limit, break or account closure works with one operator only. If you want to stop at every operator licensed in Estonia, self-exclusion through EMTA is the tool for that.
If you choose an account tool, find out before switching it on:
- From what moment it takes effect.
- Whether it can be cancelled or relaxed, and after how long.
- Whether it covers all the operator's products or only the casino.
Look for the answers in the responsible gambling section of the rules, or ask support in writing and keep the reply.
Where to get help
Free help
According to EMTA, people with gambling problems and those close to them can get free help and advice from the Gambling Addiction Counselling Centre.
Phone 15410, e-mail info@15410.ee, address Sakala 16a-11, Tallinn.
The centre offers free e-counselling: you only need an e-mail address, and a reply is promised within three working days.
Help is not only for the person who gambles. Family and friends can contact the centre too, even if the person is not ready to self-exclude, because nobody can file the application on someone else's behalf.
If you spot an error on this page, tell us through contact and corrections.
Sources (3)
Facts on this page come from the sources below. The access date is the day the source was opened while preparing the text.