Greece’s long-delayed integrated resort casino plans may finally go ahead after the government unveiled its equally overdue casino regulations.

On Thursday, Greek parliamentarians debated a new Finance Ministry amendment to Law 4512/2018 that would establish terms and conditions for the operation of casinos. The new rules will be of particular interest to would-be operators of gaming facilities in the proposed €8b Hellinikon resort project on the grounds of the old Athens international airport.

The new rules establish a two-tiered casino licensing regime: ‘single-entry’ licenses would apply to operations tied to four-star hotels, would have a 15-year duration and would require minimum paid-up capital of €500k (rising to €5m after five years).

‘Wide-range’ casino licenses would require five-star hotel accommodations plus at least one major non-gaming draw, such as a golf course, convention center, marina and spa facilities. These licenses would be valid for 30 years and would require paid-up capital of €1m to start, rising to €10m after five years.