Google to Block Gambling Affiliate Advertising in Croatia
Google will stop allowing online gambling-promoting content ads targeting Croatia from October 7, 2026.
The change affects affiliates, comparison websites and other advertisers that promote gambling operators. Google will revoke their existing certifications and will no longer accept applications for this category in Croatia. Google stated:
Effective October 7, 2026, our updated policy will disallow all promotion of online gambling-promoting content targeting Croatia. All existing certifications for advertisers of online gambling-promoting content will be revoked and applications for these certifications will no longer be accepted.
Licensed gambling operators are not covered by the ban. Online casinos, sportsbooks and licensed lotteries can continue advertising if they have the required Croatian licence and Google certification.
The update follows gambling advertising restrictions introduced in Croatia on January 1, 2026. Betting and casino advertising is prohibited online, on television and on radio between 6am and 11pm, while gambling ads are completely banned in print and on billboards.
Bonus promotions are also limited to operators’ own websites. Offers such as free spins and deposit bonuses cannot be advertised through third-party media.
Google’s Croatia update removes the paid-search certification route for gambling affiliates rather than introducing additional requirements.
