The UK Gambling Commission is looking at the possibility of allowing cryptocurrency payments for licensed betting operators. The measure is part of a broader effort to develop rules that help tackle illegal markets while supporting innovation.
Chief executive Tim Miller said the regulator intends to examine a “potential pathway” for cryptocurrency payments in the UK during the Betting and Gaming Council’s Annual General Meeting. Miller cited growing consumer demand and evidence that cryptocurrency searches are directing some gamblers to unlicensed sites.
How the commission intends to keep bettors on licensed sites
The Gambling Commission’s announcement came after the UK government introduced the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Crypto-Assets) Regulations 2025 to Parliament in December.
If Parliament approves the text, the rules will place crypto assets under the jurisdiction of the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority). Furthermore, the new regulatory regime is expected to come into force in October 2027.
Miller said the Commission’s research indicates that cryptocurrencies are among “one of the top two searches” that lead British punters to illegal operators. This growing interest in digital assets, combined with search patterns, has led the regulator to begin exploratory work.
What could change with cryptocurrency payments in the UK
The Commission has requested that its Industry Forum assess how to implement cryptocurrency payments in line with licensing objectives. The order includes anti-money laundering controls and consumer protection safeguards.
Tim Miller, executive director, said: “There will be significant challenges and risks to overcome,” adding that the Commission intends to approach the issue by “exploring what is possible” rather than ruling out innovation altogether.
The proposal also responds to the advance of the illegal market, therefore, the Commission has expanded inspection in recent years and obtained additional funding from the Treasury to reinforce actions against unlicensed operators.
“Allowing regulated companies to accept cryptocurrencies could keep consumers within the licensed system rather than driving them to offshore sites,” Miller said.
Miller emphasized that authorizing payments in cryptocurrencies would not be equivalent to approving the operation of offshore online casinos that operate with cryptocurrencies in the UK.
Finally, any operator would still need to meet strict suitability, compliance and KYC (Know Your Customer) standards set out in current gambling rules, in addition to future FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) requirements, he added.
