Survey Reveals 86% of Ukrainian Players Prefer Legal Casinos

A recent survey commissioned by Ukraine's Ministry of Digital Transformation found that a significant majority of online casino players in Ukraine favor licensed operators. Conducted by the SOCIOINFORM Sociological Centre, this survey took place from 19 May to 26 June 2026 and involved 2,676 online casino users through a CAWI methodology.

High Channelisation in Ukraine

According to the survey, 86% of respondents prefer legal online casinos, and 78% have no intention of using unlicensed operators. Despite this, informal gambling persists as 20% reported knowing someone who uses illegal sites. Key reasons for choosing unlicensed platforms include quick registration without identity checks (33%), anonymity (17%), and no restrictions (16%).

Demographic Insights

Participants were generally middle-income, educated Ukrainians. The report indicated that 42% achieved higher education and 38% had secondary specialised education. Regarding income, 31% reported monthly earnings between 11,000 and 30,000 hryvnias, with 25% earning between 31,000 and 50,000 hryvnias. The sample had a male majority of 73%, with 20% of these men having over a decade of gambling experience compared to 5% of women.

Motivations Behind Gambling

Players primarily engage due to curiosity and excitement (40%). Other factors include viewing it as a distraction (21%) and promotional offers (20%). Seventeen percent attributed their gambling to the desire to win money, while 14% did so due to social encouragement. Although 59% see their gambling as recreational, 35% admitted it can become uncontrollable, and 6% say this happens frequently. Approximately 9% reported significant personal or financial issues due to gambling.

Awareness of Responsible Gaming Tools

The findings have impacted governmental policy, including the Ministry’s Strategy to Combat Gambling Addiction. However, awareness of responsible gaming options remains mixed. While 64% knew of such tools, only 13% were aware of the gaming statistics access, and 11% knew the minimum legal gambling age. Less than 10% were informed about the national Register of Persons with Restricted Access to Gambling.

Trust in Regulatory Bodies

Respondents showed varied trust in Ukraine's gambling regulators. Over half (53%) believed the sector is properly regulated. Trust levels in the Ministry of Digital Transformation and PlayCity stood at 44%, although only 22% were well-informed about their roles. PlayCity, in its first year as Ukraine’s gambling regulator, has issued 250 licenses and is taking steps to combat unlicensed gambling through social media monitoring.