Online Casino Regulation in Europe & UK — Quick Guide for Affiliates

9 Oct 2025 Updated: 20 Nov 2025
By Bill Robertson
Trends
Europe’s online gambling market is diverse. Some countries have open, mature licensing systems, while others maintain state monopolies or severe restrictions. Affiliates need to understand each market to operate legally and effectively.

Germany

Unified by GlüStV 2021; national licenses cover sports betting, virtual slots, and poker. Table games are regulated per federal state. Operators must meet strict financial and player protection standards (e.g., €1,000 monthly deposit limit, OASIS exclusion register).
Affiliate tip: Focus on promoting slots and poker in compliant states; highlight responsible gaming tools to build trust.

Spain

Full online casino regulation; licenses required by game type. Advertising is allowed but with restrictions on time slots, bonuses, and promotions.
Tip: Create content around permitted bonuses and games; optimize campaigns for Spanish audiences with local messaging.

Malta

Open and comprehensive licensing; supports all casino types. MGA-regulated, internationally respected.
Tip: Great for cross-border campaigns targeting EU players; emphasize reliability and licensing credibility.

Sweden

Licenses for all online gambling types under Spelinspektionen; strong player protection rules.
Tip: Highlight fair play and responsible gaming; campaigns with transparency and local language perform better.

France

No real-money online casinos allowed; only sports betting and poker licensed.
Tip: Focus on permitted verticals; educate users on legal platforms and responsible play.

Poland

Casino online is a state monopoly; only certain operators allowed. Heavy penalties for unlicensed activity.
Tip: Avoid promoting unlicensed casinos; consider informational content on legal options.

Hungary & 🇦🇹 Austria

Mostly state monopolies; very limited private licensing for online casino and poker.
Tip: Carefully select operators; prioritize compliance and quality over volume.

Luxembourg

Full state monopoly; no private online operators.
Tip: Focus on content marketing rather than active promotion.

United Kingdom

Mature, internationally respected licensing system via UKGC; full range of games allowed. Strong player protection and advertising rules.
Tip: Excellent for affiliate campaigns; leverage responsible gaming messaging and credibility of licensed operators.

Affiliate Takeaway

  • Promote only licensed operators in each country.
  • Adjust messaging to local restrictions and player protection requirements.
  • Focus campaigns on verticals allowed locally (slots, poker, sports betting).
  • Highlight responsible gaming and safety features to increase trust.

Europe’s iGaming landscape is complex, but affiliates who align campaigns with local regulations gain long-term credibility and sustainable revenue.

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