The EU online casino industry has been progressing toward global dominance. As such, it now accommodates thousands of casinos. It also accommodates the most expansive betting markets, from sports betting to online games like slots and poker. The question is, which is the best online casino in the EU, and how do you know what to trust?
Our experts researched the EU gambling industry coming up with a detailed article. This Europa casino review tells you everything from what to look for in a top gambling EU site to which bonuses you can access when betting. We also tell you our most preferred casino so that you have somewhere to start your gambling journey.
There are several top-notch casinos in the EU, but we will only recommend the best of the best to our readers. To achieve that level of authority, our analysts scrutinize every casino in the market based on these factors.
Wide Range of Casino Games
There are tons of casino games available globally. When rating the best casinos, we examine the number of games offered. A top casino must have a well-stocked library of games that spoils players’ choices.
The casino must consider players’ tastes and preferences in their game selection. An excellent casino offers everything from old-fashioned selections like classic slots to the newest trends like The Phantom of the Opera.
We also consider these games’ quality before recommending any casinos to our readers. Top European casinos must provide excellent features, sound, and graphics. Quality in casino games makes them enjoyable, easy to understand, and entertaining.
Payment Methods for European Players
The best casino in the European Union will accommodate various payment methods. These methods must range from traditional ones like credit cards to the most recent options, including cryptocurrencies.
A casino that accepts European players must also accept the local currency of the country in which it operates. Accepting a local currency helps local players, especially newbies, to manage their spending and bankrolls. It also eliminates currency conversion fees, and such related hustle
Top casinos should also have the infrastructure to ensure the payment methods are fast, secure, and reliable. You do not want to spend days waiting for your deposit or withdrawals to reflect on the other end.
EU Customer Support
Customer service is also essential when choosing a casino. A top casino operating in the EU must protect its customers. Players want their service provider to be available and be able to help them 24 hours every day of the week.
We also acknowledge Europe as a multilingual continent. People here communicate in different languages, from Spanish and German to English. The more languages the casino includes in its customer service, the higher the rating.
Lastly, an excellent online casino will have a customer service team that educates potential customers on various aspects, including signing up, starting playing, navigating the site, and responsible gambling practices.
EU Responsible Gaming
Responsible gaming is a gambling practice that minimizes the negative gambling effect on individuals and society. These practices include promoting safe and healthy gaming environments and identifying and managing potential gambling-associated risks and threats.
A top casino must have structure to these. For instance, it must limit deposits to ensure gamblers do not commit everything at stake. It must also stand firm against underage gaming and protect sensitive customer information like bank details.
Most casinos in our list even use Gaming Analytics Accelerator to monitor player behavior and protect them against themselves.
Reputation and Licensing
One way to recognize a safe and secure casino is through its licensing authority. It is a requirement that a casino acquires a license before beginning operation in any European Nation.
Some of the most reputable licensing organizations include The Isle Of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC), The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), and The United Kingdom Gaming Commission (UKGC).
Legitimate online casinos include the licensing authority logos in the footers of their websites. Logos for eCOGRA (E-Commerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance), TST (Technical Systems Testing), or GLI (Gaming Laboratories International) in casino websites mean that the operator hires agencies to check and track its random number generator (RNG) and RTP.
Security and Privacy
Privacy and security are the two most important factors before picking a gaming platform. Online gambling has a lot of money floating in global cyberspace. As such, gambling sites and their customers are now a soft target for cybercriminals.
We prioritize the security infrastructure to protect consumers from DDoS and Ransomware Attacks, SQL Injection, Identity fraud and Theft, and many more.
The EU’s most secure and private gambling platform will have 128 or 256-bit encryption to protect your data. They will also have an available privacy policy you accustom yourself to before subscribing to their services.
Gambling Laws in European Union
No specific gambling body regulates the European gambling industry. Every state in the union is independent and free to regulate its gambling activities as it sees fit. Even in doing so, the respective country must still comply with the fundamental freedoms and general provisions stipulated in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
Most European countries at least allow some betting activities within their borders. While some are open to all casino games and gambling activities, some only allow specific games. For example, a country may allow sports betting and ban other forms. Some are also specific on the mode of payment.
It is important to note that The European Commission encourages and supports the member countries’ efforts to modernize respective online gambling legal frameworks. One important item to note here is the framework of administrative cooperation to help the various gambling regulatory authorities work together.
The commission also commits to ensuring high consumer protection, including the vulnerable and minors. With such commitment, the countries decided to move state monopolies to overwhelmingly adopt the multi-license system. The policy allows both public and privately owned betting companies to have a license that allows them to operate in a country.
Licenses of Online Casinos in Europe
There has been tremendous growth in the number of betting companies in the EU since adopting multi-license regimes. This growth has also seen various betting licensing authorities come up in large numbers.
As such, every country has specific rules tailor-made for its citizens. For example, a country may restrict the number of licenses it allows or the products and services a license allows a company to offer.
Such rules and regulations have now brought about the debate on reputation and brand recognition for each licensing authority.
Most Reputable Casino Licenses in the EU
While licenses depict that a gambling company is legally constituted in a country, the type of licensing also matters regarding the quality of service and reputation of an online site. Here are some of the most reputable casino licenses in the European Union.
Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC)
Set up in May 2000, AGCC has been one of the best regulators in the block owing to its independent and non-political operations. The commission regulates and supervises gambling practices for the States of Alderney (self-governing British Channel Islands that depend on the Crown), ensuring that it sets international standards.
Alderney Gambling Control Commission outperforms other gambling regulators by having ever-present and responsive customer service. They have detailed information about themselves on the internet, so the public knows whom they are dealing with.
Further, the commission provides a very straightforward application process. They team up with the AGCC and are on hand to guide applicants through every stage of the process.
United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC)
The United Kingdom Gambling Commission oversees and offers several unique licenses based on specific betting companies’ activities. A good example is the remote activities requiring two different licenses to accept sports gambling on real and virtual events. The authority also gives out intermittently and industry licenses to qualified applicants.
One advantage of operating under the UKGC is that you will enjoy the goodwill that comes with being associated with one of the most significant contributors to the gambling industry, the United Kingdom.
The UK is famous as a European jurisdiction, defining exceptional technical standards and emphasizing player protection and industry social responsibility.
The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC)
The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission operates on three core principles; to maintain a crime-free gambling industry, to protect minors and vulnerable individuals, and to ensure a free and fair gambling market.
With such effort, the GSC has delivered a stable government with a strong regulatory environment. It boasts of a reputable gambling and e-gaming industry on the island.
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
Malta is a popular gambling hub for players across the globe. It has had one of the most reputable licenses for a long time, providing access to the most lucrative betting havens in Europe and beyond.
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) carries out a licensing process, confers the licenses to operators, issues regulations, and checks compliance. The authority deals with four classes of licenses.
The first license class allows the operator to organize games of chance using RNG to determine the outcomes. This license is for casinos that provide online games like table games and video slots.
The other classes allow companies to organize casino games based on specific event results, like sports betting and poker.
One benefit of operating under an MGA license is its streamlined taxation system. As a current holder, you do not need to get a separate license when moving to a different class. You also do not have to pay for monthly compliance in your first 12 months of casino operation.
The only disadvantage is that acquiring an MGA license is considerably extended. It involves at least five stages, including many compliance audits, and takes up to 4 weeks.
Spanish Gambling Authority (DGOJ)
Gambling regulation is complex in Spain, with land-based operators subject to the autonomous authority of the jurisdiction. The state is a player in the national lottery oligopoly, so all commercial activities on the same are restricted.
Online gambling, however, is under complete control of the General Directorate for the Regulation of Gaming Activities (DGOJ). I have a sweeping oversight mandate on all forms of remote gambling in all regions of Spain. It is tasked with licensing all operators offering remote gambling services within its jurisdiction.
All European Economic area-licensed online casinos have to seek a corresponding license with DGOJ before legally operating in Spain. The regulator is still new to the market, mandated by the gambling act of 2011. DGOJ has the job of developing and adopting secondary regulations on gambling.
It also controls and inspects the operation of the gaming act. Prosecution of illegal gambling activity and adjudication of claims against operators are its functions too. DGOJ collaborates with other Spanish authorities to enforce anti-money laundering regulations and anti-tax fraud.
The Spanish market is complex; some games can’t be offered as the state is also a player. Licensing is complex, and the enforcement of the regulation is robust.
Italian Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM)
ADM primarily licenses online casino operators, supervising due performance and license scope compliance. It has the mandate of consumer rights protection through relevant regulations and enforcement. This act protects against consumer exploitation and underage gambling and its effects.
The agency is the state’s overseer on gambling and represents the interests of the treasury to ensure tax compliance. It monitors the gambling effect and its social implications to inform the formulation of regulations and enforcement to counter illegal gambling phenomena.
Gambling in Italy is well regulated; all EEA-registered online casinos must apply for Italian operating licenses. All gambling advertisements have been banned in Italy since January 2019
Swedish Gambling Authority
The Swedish Gambling Authority primarily aims to protect consumers in the gambling industry. It is charged with licensing all gambling operators, land-based and remote.
It must formulate secondary regulations and enforcement to ensure its primary functions are adhered to. The agency works with other government bodies to prevent all forms of money laundering, financial fraud, and funding of terrorist activities.
The authority coordinates with other international regulators to monitor and perform other core functions. It works with the Malta Gaming Authority, Gibraltar Gaming division, and the UKGC to help combat all forms of financial fraud and consumer data protection.
The Swedish Gambling Authority has sweeping powers to restrict gambling activities by an operator or individual customers who contravene regulation.
The agency is the state’s overseer on gambling and represents the treasury interests by ensuring tax compliance.
Withdrawals & Deposits for EU Players
At least you will find a casino accepting your payment method if you play within the European Union. Every casino here has multiple payment methods, from traditional ones like credit cards to modern crypto and mobile banking.
Apart from the available banking options, we advise that EU players check on the caps on withdrawal and deposit amounts. Lastly, one should also be keen on the transaction’s speed; you do not want to wait the entire day for your money to reflect on the other end.
Deposit Procedure
The deposit process is often similar despite the difference in the user interface.
Go to your betting sites and sign in to your online betting account.
Locate the cashier/deposit page.
Select your deposit method.
Enter the amount you want to deposit.
Click on the Deposit button.
Withdrawal Procedure
Here is a standardized withdrawal procedure from an online casino.
Go to your betting sites and sign in to your online betting account.
Go to the cashier/withdrawal page.
Select your preferred withdrawal method.
Enter the amount you want to withdraw.
Click on the Withdraw button.
The time it takes the money to reflect depends on the payment method and casino transaction speed. It may be as short as a few minutes or as long as one week.
Casino Bonuses and Promotions for Players in the EU
Bonuses are various incentives from top European online casinos to players. Popular bonuses aim to get new players to sign on or to encourage seasoned players to play more.
This article will highlight the best online casino bonuses in Europe.
Welcome Bonus/No Deposit Bonus
Upon signing up and verifying your account without any deposit, you will get this bonus. The no-deposit bonus is the best, as it gives you a chance to win without wasting your money.
As a new player, you can try out new titles, perfect your winning strategy, and play risk-free. Watch out for the time limit, and try and use up your bonus before it expires.
New online casinos sometimes give bonuses through free cash or spins. You can test new games on the platform with the house money as you consider depositing your cash.
No deposit bonuses are usually small cash amounts compared to other bonuses. You will also find that they have a low cash out and maximum winning limits making them less lucrative.
First-Deposit Bonus
The welcome bonus is the most popular for new online casinos. It usually targets new members with cash incentives and free spins upon signing up. You can access these bonuses after signing up and making your first deposit.
Top online casinos will match your deposit up to a specific limit. If the welcome bonus is cashable, you can convert it to real money. You can also test your ability at different games, improve your strategy and play longer.
On the downside, the bonuses come with wagering requirements. These can be hard to fulfill, making it near impossible to collect your winnings. Ensure you read the Terms and Conditions to know how to play, win, and withdraw your money easily.
Cashback Bonuses
A cashback bonus is for seasoned players and gives back a percentage of lost bets. The bonus is lucrative for high rollers as it ensures a percentage of your wager if you lose.
Through cashback bonuses, you get a small return on lost wagers. It usually has no wagering requirement, is simple to use, and rewards loyal players.
On the other hand, the bonus is limited to certain casinos and may have a maximum cap. It is also not available to new online casino players.
Special Occasion Bonus
Your preferred online casino may offer you various bonuses on special occasions. The bonus is on your birthday, Christmas, New Year, or during promotional weeks.
The bonus may take any shape, depending on the site. You can get a Matching deposit, free spins, free cash, no deposit bonus, or prize wheel winnings. It is easy for you to access the bonus. It requires no deposits, targets your favorite games, and is not region specific.
Though widely accessible, the bonus is usually low value, carries unrealistic wagering requirements, and may occur once a year.
Watch out for insane bonuses promised upon signing up by some European online casinos. Always check if the casino is registered and licensed to avoid being scammed.
Gamble in Your Language
You can gamble today in the best European Online casinos in your native language. Interact with support, dealers, and other players in the language of your choice.
This feature ensures you get a superior casino experience. You will have the best support in your language from wherever you are. It will be easier to improve your overall game once you read and follow instructions. Understanding the terms and conditions governing play can improve your win rate.
The Best EU Online Casino Software Providers
The gaming industry has seen many affiliates and related service providers mushrooming to supplement its services. Software developers are such companies. They are responsible for making the behind the scenes happenings, including the graphic and sound works.
Below we look at some gambling software providers working to shape the European betting industry.
Microgaming
This company has been around since 1994, making it a pioneer in the online casino software scene. Chances are that you have been using Microgaming software if you have been gaming online since the late 1990s. This was the first company to supply online gambling software to bookmakers.
This company prides itself on providing you with a top-quality user experience. It produces an extensive array of platforms with high-quality graphics and sound. Due to its longevity in the market, it has an extensive portfolio of games. These games are available for both download and instant play platforms.
Microgaming has an internal policy of fairness. It ensures that websites that use its platform are also eCOGRA certified. You can access any title by this developer using whatever device. You will also get new game releases regularly and enjoy a simple user experience.
The biggest shortcoming is you won’t have full access to the platform if you are a resident of the United States.
Evolution Gaming
This company is a pioneer in immersive and interactive live gaming. If you want to play live card games with expert dealers, this platform is for you.
Evolution Gaming uses various tools to give you the Monte Carlo experience when you play. They have well-equipped TV studios fitted with multiple cameras and modern gaming tables.
The platform has recently incorporated a crypto payment. This option ensures your transactions are fast, secure, and private. Even better is that Evolution gaming allows you to enjoy all games live in HD and with fantastic sound.
On the downside, the platform offers players limited bonuses and jackpot titles. The platform specializes primarily in live dealer titles.
Playtech
This leading software company has been listed on the London Stock Exchange for ten years. It is also certified and licensed by Alderney Gaming Commission (AGC).
Playtech has excellent security and encryption protocols, making it one of the most reliable and honest platforms worldwide. Casinos associated with this software are famous for some of the highest-paying bonuses and many ongoing promos when you join.
It has in-built native languages to help you communicate, eliminating the language barrier. Playtech has one of the lowest deposit requirements in the industry. You will find it easy to sign up and play on this platform.
Playtech has few channels of communication in customer support. Its maximum withdrawal limit is a problem, especially if you gamble frequently.
Net Entertainment (NetEnt)
Founded in 1996, you can expect a diverse range of high-quality games, with over 200+ titles. NetEnt also provides administration tools to run online casino businesses.
They offer custom live casino programs optimized for both mobile and desktop devices. You will get to enjoy high-quality and user-friendly interfaced games on this platform. NetEnt is famous for its wide variety of bonuses and free spins for its clients.
You are bound to enjoy regularly released games and titles. Most games have language options to suit users worldwide. NetEnt is licensed and listed on the Swedish stock exchange.
European Online Casinos that Accept Gamblers from the UK
Like in any other industry, the online gambling market in the UK is very competitive. Gambling sites are employing all means possible to outdo the competition. In such scenarios, every gambler must watch their respective gambling site selections.
Here are some of the best European online casinos that accept gamblers from the UK.
Betnow Casino
This is an e-gaming company registered in Curacao; it’s been active since 2016. It is a prominent sportsbook and online casino with vast offerings. It allows UK punters to explore gaming options even if registered with gamstop.
The UK Gaming Commission rules and regulation does not apply to it. All you have to do is register, get your welcome bonus, and start playing.
Upon registration, you will get generous terms with your welcome bonus. A 100% deposit matches up to $500, with a ten times playthrough requirement for the first deposit. You will get a 50% and 25% bonus for your second and third deposit options up to %1000. These will attract eight times and five times playthrough requirements.
Punters from the UK can enjoy a good portfolio of both a casino and sports book. The sportsbook has games from the English premier league to the lower-tier leagues. It features other major football leagues so that you can bet on matches worldwide.
You can wager on horse races in the UK tracks and Harness. They all attract exclusive bonuses and cashback. Betnow keeps books on all major sports leagues and motor racing for you.
You will also find games in slots, bingo, poker, Slingo keyword, etc. Betnow features a dedicated mobile devices platform and a live casino. The live casino is reminiscent of brick-and-mortar gambling halls.
Million Vegas
This Curacao-based online casino was registered in 2020. It accepts all UK punters despite being gamstop subscribers. It offers a quick sign-up process with little verification.
All you have to do is to verify your email address and make a deposit to enjoy the welcome bonus. On the first deposit, you will get a 150% deposit match up to £500; the second deposit gives you a 125% match up to£500.
The third and fourth deposits attract 100% up to £500 and 200% deposit match up to £600, respectively. This is to get you started in your gaming experience.
Million Vegas offers a strong portfolio in both online casinos and sportsbooks. It has a limited offering in the Horse races. You can enjoy a complete football and other sports experience in the sportsbook. Once you sign up, you can bet across all major sports leagues and top sports betting options, including MMA, Hockey, Golf, Motorsports, and Volleyball.
Here, you will enjoy other casino games like online slots like stardust, very well slots, Triump Slots, and Jackpot Charm Slots.
Million Vegas has one of the broadest selections of modes of payments ranging from Visa= and MasterCard to cryptocurrencies.
Mystake Casino
Mystake casino is owned by Onyxion B.V and is registered by Curacao eGaming. This casino uses some of the best software developers. This ensures UK players get the best playing experience and value for their money.
The software is from reputable developers like Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, Playson, and NetEnt. Once you sign up, you can begin playing without verification.
The gambling site gives players several payment options, including cryptocurrencies and online banking services. It has a lightning-fast transaction speed with instant deposits from all payment platforms.
You will get your welcome bonus upon signing up and making the first deposit. This bonus is subject to playthrough requirements. 150% deposit bonus with 40 times the wagering requirement.
For sports punters, Mystake casino has a favorable sportsbook. It will allow you to bet on most major sports leagues at home and abroad. It supports other various sports like MMA, motor racing, and esports.
You can access more than 4000 video slots and over 60 jackpots. You can browse as per the game developer for ease of navigation. The online segment is updated frequently by developers.
Richy Reels Casino
Richy Reels Casino is registered with Curacao. It has several working partnerships with reputable game developers, offering you a unique array of games.
It has both a casino and a sports book that boasts various games. Most of these games are not available on platforms licensed by the UKGC.
You are required to register and verify your phone number and email and get a 10 EUR as a no deposit bonus. Once done, you can play some unique online gaming selections anywhere.
Richy Reels has an extensive sports portfolio that will interest you. You can virtually bet on matches worldwide in different sports on this platform. The site lets you bet on several markets like esports, cybersports, darts, boxing, and much more.
The upside of partnering with developers, you will access games that are only found here. The casino has all the live games well-liked in the UK in a separate section from the sports books.
The casino supports various transaction platforms, from credit and debit cards to cryptocurrencies. It also has privacy and security infrastructure like SSL encryption to protect your data and financial information.
Richy Reels casino has 24-hour customer support. This service makes follow up on customer queries enhancing your gaming experience.
EU Casinos | FAQs
Are EU citizens allowed to gamble online?
EU citizens can gamble online. The regulations and restrictions apply uniquely to member countries. EU citizens can bet online on EU casinos or non-EU casinos that accept gamblers from the European Union.
Legally, can I play at casinos in Europe?
Legally you can play at a casino in Europe. However, diverse regulatory frameworks govern the European gambling industry. As such, you must adhere to the specific rule of your respective host nation.
Which is the best EU casino?
The best EU casino has a license from a reputable licensing authority. It must also provide safety and security measures like Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and SSL encryption to protect customers against cyber attacks. Lastly, the best EU casino must have many games with lucrative and genuine bonuses and promotions.
Are there bonuses available in EU casinos?
EU casinos offer lucrative bonuses and promotions to their players with unique objectives. Some bonuses aim to get more people to sign up for these betting sites. Some bonuses, like the cashback bonus, look to restore the money lost in betting. Finally, some promotions like VIP and loyalty programs look to reward the most loyal members.
Is it safe to play in a European Online Casino?
Playing in any top casino outside of Europe with a safe and secure infrastructure is safe. Some security and safety features include RNG technology, Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption, and secure payment options.
Can I play in a Top EU Casino from outside of Europe?
You can always play in a top casino from outside Europe. The first option is to find a casino that accepts European players, sign up and play. The second option is to use VPN to bypass any boundary restrictions. Even with this, you will still have to answer a few questions. Like do they accept your mode of payment? Are they safe and secure, and do they offer the games you want to play?
Is there a minimum deposit in EU Casinos?
Some casinos in the EU have restrictions on the least amount you can deposit. However, the amount is unique to every gambling site, so you must check them before betting.
Can I request fast withdrawals in Online European Casinos?
Technological advancement in the modern betting industry allows players to get instant payouts. They also give opportunities for easy cashouts. In most cases, the payout process takes only a few minutes.
Is it legal to play at EU Casinos Online?
It is legal to play at EU casinos as long as they are duly licensed. Every country has a body that registers gambling sites and only does so after serious scrutiny of fundamental basic qualifications. While the rules and regulations are unique to each country, some, like the age limit, universally apply
