Gambling regulation in Germany
Virtual slot machines, online poker and sports betting are licensed nationally by the GGL; online table games are left to each federal state.
Status at a glance
Private operators can apply for a licence.
Private operators can apply for a licence.
Private operators can apply for a licence.
The law reserves this product for a state or state-appointed operator.
Regulator and law
- Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL)
- Main law: State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021)
Key points
- Virtual slots carry a €1 stake limit per spin and a minimum spin time; a cross-operator monthly deposit limit is checked through the LUGAS system.
- Advertising for virtual slots, online poker and online casino games is not allowed on television or the internet between 06:00 and 21:00.
- Players can self-exclude across all licensed operators through OASIS.
Self-exclusion
National self-exclusion register: OASIS. Licensed operators must refuse play to anyone registered.
Gambling tax
| Product | Rate | Tax base | Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual slot machines and online poker | 5.3% | stakes, net of the tax | |
| Sports betting | 5.3% | stakes, net of the tax |
A tax on stakes, not on revenue: see below what it means for a product's margin.
Source: finanzen.bremen.de, gamblingnews.com. Gambling tax rates in other markets
Advertising on iGaming Terminal
Consumer gambling advertising on this site is shown to visitors from this market only for operators licensed here, and only for online casino, sports betting, online poker. Casino and poker advertising respects the legal watershed and runs only between 21:00 and 06:00 local time. Our advertising policy
Sources
Nearby markets
Latest from the regulator
- Fünf Jahre GGL: Jubiläumsveranstaltung im Mitteldeutschen Multimediazentrum Halle
- Fünf Jahre GGL: Fachbehörde hat sich etabliert und ist wirksam
- GGL begrüßt erfolgreichen Schlag gegen illegales Glücksspiel in Milliardenhöhe
- DACHL-Glücksspielaufsichten: Grenzüberschreitende Strukturen illegalen Glücksspiels stärker in den Blick nehmen
Working in the industry here
iGaming jobs in Germany: 160 open roles at 6 gambling industry companies, from their own career sites.
Reviewed on . Gambling law changes often: this overview is for orientation and is not legal advice. Check with the regulator before acting. Market: Germany
Frequently asked questions
Is online gambling legal in Germany?
It depends on the product. Online casino is licensed: private operators can apply for a licence. Sports betting is licensed: private operators can apply for a licence. Online poker is licensed: private operators can apply for a licence. Lottery is reserved for a state or state-appointed operator.
Who regulates gambling in Germany?
Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL). The main law is: State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021).
Is there a national self-exclusion scheme in Germany?
Yes: OASIS. Licensed operators must refuse play to anyone registered.
How much gambling tax do online operators pay in Germany?
Virtual slot machines and online poker, and sports betting: 5.3% each, charged on stakes, net of the tax. Other taxes and fees may apply.
Updated: